July 19, 1923 - April 1, 2023
Vi was born on July 19, 1923, the middle child of seven, from West Sechelt pioneer parents, John and Ella Wood. Times were challenging but Vi was always an upbeat person and would speak of her growing-up years with good natured humour and laughter. Swimming with her siblings at Wakefield beach was a highlight.
Vi married Bill in 1941, initially living in Vancouver, then in Sechelt when Bill went to war. They returned to Vancouver with their children, Ken and Judy, and lived in the East End where neighbours were like family and became friends for life. Sue was born in 1957 and a few years later the family moved into their larger south Burnaby home.
Vi was pretty and personable, a natural in sales and had a varied career; Woodward’s, The Bay, Hastings Race Track and modelling for newspaper ads. She always had a job, but managed to drop everything in July so the family could spend summers near the beach on the Sunshine Coast. Vi and Bill moved back to the Coast in 1980.
Vi was very social with many interests and hobbies; reading, golfing, knitting, playing bridge, travelling and volunteering for numerous causes. She was an amazing and generous gardener and a great cook. Her many pets (dogs, cats, birds) were always special to her. In the summer she loved going to the beach with family and friends. Most of all, she loved her family, always so proud of their achievements.
Bill passed away in 2000. With the help of family, Vi continued an enjoyable life in her Davis Bay home. Mobility issues caught up with her in the spring of 2020, and Vi moved into Assisted Living at Christenson Village where she thrived under the loving care and support of their wonderful staff. In the fall of 2022, as she declined both mentally and physically, she was transferred into the Complex Care Unit where she continued to receive genuine caring attention.
Vi passed away 3 1/2 months before her 100th birthday. She was predeceased by her husband Bill, brothers Bob and Alan and sisters Bertha, Ellie, and Gene, and is survived by her youngest sister Faye.
She often said how lucky she was for such a rich and full life. Her warm nature, positive outlook, and generosity of spirit has been an inspiration to all of her family: Ken (Alice), Judy (Ron), Sue (Stan), six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Also lovingly remembered by Barrie and Bev, nieces and nephews and so many others, too numerous to mention.
She taught us so much and we will miss her!
As per her wishes, there will be no funeral, however a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.
