August 6, 1958 - October 17, 2024
We are heartbroken to share the news of Glenys' passing. A pioneer in her career, a committed contributor to community, a beloved partner, and a lover of cats, Glenys contributed in enormous ways to the advancement of women.
Glenys discovered her passion for aviation at the age of 18, becoming one of the first female pilots for Air Canada at the age of 21. She flew a series of routes for Air Canada for the next 34 years, with a career highlight of piloting the B767 to Asia and Europe. While being a pilot, Glenys contributed to projects such as critical incident processes, union contract negotiations and pilot operations manuals for Air Canada.
Glenys was also a journalist, writing for local community papers about politics, school district news and stories for the Surrey Leader, New West Now and the Globe and Mail. She later went on to complete her MBA at the University of Toronto, winning numerous awards for her scholastic achievements.
While at home, Glenys became a fixture in the community and always jumped in to help whoever was in need - whether it was driving, delivering Meals on Wheels, or just helping her neighbours and friends.
Glenys was also a committed partner to Sherry Hallson, sharing 34 years together and homes in Toronto, Vancouver and Roberts Creek. Both have touched the lives of many people, and we will miss the easy smile, welcoming nature and open-hearted warmth of Glenys.
Glenys was predeceased by her father Eldon, mother Diana and sister Kate. Glenys is survived by her brother Rod Olstad (Patsy) of Edmonton, brother Marlon Olstad, aunt and uncle Coral and Ronnie Levang of Edmonton, many cousins, best friend in trouble making Lori Campbell of Edmonton, her beautiful niece Margaret Donovan of Montreal and our rock Karen Mahoney.
Thank you to the many friends and neighbours on the coast who helped Glenys and Sherry navigate this horrible illness, the oncology nurses, and the palliative nursing team. All these people were life extenders extraordinaire and integral to Glenys's determination to beat cancer. Much appreciation to the Devlin Funeral home director, Melodie Richards and driver, Chris, who came with open hearts and compassion for us. Thank you to Dr. Wadge, Dr. Stinson, and Dr. Sasha Smiljanic for the love and hope they offered Glenys.
A celebration of life will be April 19, 2025, at the Sunshine Coast Golf and Country Club. Mark your calendars now. Donations may be sent to the Sechelt Hospital Foundation to aid in the wonderful work they do for our community.
Into the mystic.
