1922 – 2012
With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Illeen, the last (but certainly not least) of Margaret and Fred Cawsey’s ten children. She was born in Winnipeg on the 28th of October 1922 and lived all but the first three months of her life on the island, considering herself very much a Victoria native. Illeen worked hard all her life, including periods at Boeings, the C.P.R. laundry, The Bay and with the Provincial and Federal Governments.
During her time in the Air Force Reserve, she met Ted. They married and she found her true vocation – motherhood. Sherry and Dale were the lights of her life and she never let them down. Illeen reveled in having family and friends around and she never said “no” to a party. Fiercely independent, she insisted on staying in the family home after Ted passed in 2010. Illeen was dearly loved and she takes a piece of each of our hearts with her.
She is survived by her children Dale (Shirley), and Sherry (Ron); grandchildren Melissa, Danny, Kristen (Lyle), Jeff and Paul; great-grandchildren Kierra, Abigale, Emma and Kaylee; also niece Dauna (Bob) and a large extended family.
A private family celebration of Illeen’s life (she wanted no tears) will be held in Parksville at a later date.
Those so wishing may make a donation to the charity of their choice.
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM (250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.