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Muriel Helen Starr entered this world on November 3, 1916 in Saint John NB and departed 92 years later on

November 21, 2008 in Parksville BC.

Between those dates, Muriel lived a long and wonderful life for which she often expressed her gratitude.

The elder of 2 daughters born to Robert Woods and Jennie

McKinney, Muriel lived and worked in Saint John until her marriage to Jack (John) Starr of the same city.

After spending a few years in Moncton NB, the family moved to Ottawa where Jack continued his career in the RCAF. With the exception of 2 years spent on the military base at Trenton, ON, Muriel and Jack remained in Ottawa where they raised 3 daughters.

Following many devoted years as a homemaker, Muriel returned to work: first with the Ottawa Board of Education and later as a legal secretary in the Tax Appeal Board of the federal government. She was a stickler for spelling and grammar and even at age 90 would offer correction!

In 1972, Muriel and Jack retired to Brentwood Bay BC near Victoria where they delighted in sharing their island paradise with visitors.

A decade after her husband’s death, Muriel relocated to Parksville where she lived a carefree lifestyle at Emerald Estates thanks to homemaker services.

Muriel was an inspirational participant at Silver Foxes Fitness where she enjoyed the kind attentions of participants and instructor alike until the age of 91.

During the past year, advanced age caught up with her and Muriel moved into Stanford Place where she received excellent care.

No public service will be held. Privately, family members will disperse her ashes.  A tree will be planted in her memory in Parksville and a plaque in her honour added to a bench dedicated to her husband in Brentwood Bay.       

Muriel is survived by her daughters Jaynie Starr of Parksville, Elaine La Riviere (Gregory) of Brentwood Bay BC and Miriam Wilson(Barry) of Kemptville ON; by her grandchildren Rebecca, Zachary and Jacob Stevenson, Nicolas and Sylvie La Riviere, and Sarah and Graham Wilson; also by her great-granddaughter Naomi Wilson.

Muriel’s family wishes to thank all those who gifted her with kindness or brought her joy at any time during her long life .                                                                                                                                               

Special thanks to those who cared for Muriel in her final years including Dr. Julia Hickey Somerville, Betty McCoy, VIHA home support workers, Sue’s Seniors Care and the staff of Stanford Place.

Muriel, your smile and disposition were as bright as your

favourite yellow raincoat.

You will be missed.

Photo: Muriel celebrating her 90th with Stevenson grandchildren.



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