Whitlam, Edna Dorothy
Edna was born in Paradise Hill, Saskatchewan on February 28th 1923; passed away on February 13th 2014. She was predeceased by her husband, Jack in 2004, whom she married in Vancouver in 1946. They started their life together as agents for the Vancouver Sun in Nanaimo and became involved in many community projects. In 1950 their son, Tom was born, as was Nanaimo’s first Curling Rink with Jack as President. In 1965 they built Petroglyph Mobile Home park. In 1964 they motored across California talking to Community College Presidents, getting information for a similar institution in Nanaimo. In 1968 Jack became the first Chairman of the Board during the creation of Malaspina College, now Vancouver Island University.
Edna also had a passion for painting and gardening. She enjoyed life fully and will be mourned by those left behind: her loving son, Tom (Hema); grandson, Arvin; granddaughter, Esha (Joe); sisters, Agnes Nichols, Jane Salzl; and many, many wonderful nieces, nephews and cousins across Canada. Edna enjoyed her retirement years at Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo. She found the staff there most caring and full of fun. Many thanks.
There will be a commemoration and viewing of some of Edna’s artwork at the Wellington Hall, 3922 Corunna Ave, Nanaimo BC V9T 3J7, from 12 noon to 5:00p.m. on Friday, February 28th, her 91st birthday. Selected pieces of her artwork will be available for purchase by silent auction, the proceeds being donated to the Nanaimo Regional Hospital Foundation in her name.
There will be no service, by her own request. Flowers are gratefully declined.