October 23, 1932 to February 19, 2011
It is with great sadness that we share the death of our beloved mother, Marilyn, age 78, on Saturday, February 19, 2011. “Gramma Daisy” passed away peacefully and very suddenly of a heart attack, at home, as was her wish. There is never enough time to love those who possess our heart. That was the case with Mom. Marilyn leaves behind her children: Trisha, Bill, and Chico (Linda), grandchildren: Heather, Jill, Melissa, and Quinn, her one brother Bill Spiller (Sarah) and family, brother-in-law Brian Canning and family, her late partner, Bill Holmes’ family in Alberta, and many lifelong friends. Marilyn was predeceased by her husband John in 2002, her one sister Barbara Canning in December 2010, and her beloved partner Bill Holmes on January 10th, 2011. Marilyn Marguerite was born in Calgary, Alberta to Lyn and Madge Spiller. The family grew up in Banff where she enjoyed a life of skiing and playing hooky from school so she could help out her father, the editor, at the Banff Crag & Canyon newspaper. One fateful summer she met our father, John Newell, who was driving a bus for Rocky Mountain Tours (Brewsters) and she was selling tickets in the Banff Springs Hotel. Dad said once he saw Mom walk across the lobby in those high heels, he was a goner! Mom and Dad had the most amazing life of travel, making lifelong friends wherever the road took them. Moving from Banff to southern California and back to Canada, there was always an adventure for the Newell family! Marilyn and John’s history in Qualicum started in 1972/73 as the managers of Eaglecrest Lodge. The George Inn was the next stop. Who can forget Friday nights at “the George” with the Brass Penny band and Jim Dives doing his velvet paintings! Those were the good old days. Marilyn went on to become office manager at Qualicum Builders Supply. Her attention to detail still brings a smile to many! In 1985 came John Newell Caterers and Trisha’s Restaurant for which Mom was our unsung backbone. Marilyn and John were very active in the Potlatch Shrine Club and spent many a memorable winter in Mazatlan, Mexico. After Dad died, Mom would find love again in the arms of her high school sweetheart, Bill Holmes. Their reunion brought 7 amazing years of great adventures and the eternal love of Bill’s family. Mom was always radiant in sharing her Alberta stories. Her final employment was a labour of love, “executive receptionist” for her son Bill at his annual income tax kiosk in the Wembley Mall. Most clients would only come if Marilyn was working!
What great stories we can share and what joy and laughter we will cherish! We are truly blessed to have had such an incredibly devoted mother and friend.
Farewell Mother Newell, you certainly have earned your rest.
Cremation. Family celebration at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.
Condolences c/o Trisha Newell at email: trishaaa86@hotmail.com