Medland, Marie Theresa
June 3, 1928 - December 26, 2011
It is with the deepest of sorrows that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother and grandmother, Marie Medland, after a lengthy illness, December 26th at Kiwanis Lodge with her family by her side. Marie was predeceased by her parents Gildo (Joe) and Dorina Novelli, and her brother, Gildo Novelli. Marie is survived by her husband of 62.5 years, Ken Medland; her two daughters, Dorina (Larry Dudeck) and Darlene (Ted) Collinson, and three adored grandchildren, Jill and Alex Collinson and Blair Dudeck.
Marie was born and raised in Cassidy, B.C. and attended Ladysmith High School, where she became the first female president of the students’ council. Upon graduation, she worked for Ryan’s Grocery Store in Ladysmith, until her marriage to Ken. The couple lived in Victoria for three months until Ken received a transfer to Nanaimo to work for Cunningham Drugstore.
Marie’s family meant the world to her; she was a devoted wife and an encouraging mother, who supported her daughters to attain any goals they sought. She especially cherished her three grandchildren. Marie happily attended every milestone, event and activity of all three until poor health prevented her from doing so. She was always so happy to hear of the latest developments in their lives.
Marie was also a long time member of the Native Daughters of B.C. Post #2. She was a chaperone for the Nanaimo May Queen party in the early 1960’s and was once presented to Queen Elizabeth during Canada’s centennial celebrations.
Marie was an avid gardener, both indoors and out. She had a spectacular collection of houseplants that she cultivated with great care. Marie was a marvelous cook and baker and loved to entertain family and friends in her home. No one ever left Marie’s without a cup of coffee or tea and something to eat. Marie was a caring, considerate and kind individual who made everyone feel welcome and special.
After retirement, Marie and Ken were able to travel to various parts of the world including China, Israel, eastern Canada, the United States, Mexico and Europe. However, the place she loved best, was her home and Vancouver Island.
Throughout her life, Marie faced many health challenges that she met with courage, fortitude and resilience. She always seemed able to carry on even though, at times, she dealt with very daunting circumstances. Marie modeled to her daughters, an amazing dignity in the face of adversity and the courage to move forward in spite of many setbacks. She set the example of always doing your best with what resources you have at the time and she kept her sense of humour.
Marie was also blessed with loving and dedicated friends of seventy years, Jacque and Magnus (Jorgy) Jorgenson and cousins, Sally and Lorne Rozzano.
Marie was a kind and gentle soul who loved children, the elderly and animals with a compassionate generosity. In her later years, she found much joy in her companion animals, Viva and Lady. Marie had a beautiful smile, and was always ready with a hello and a wave for everyone she met. Ave Maria!
Our family is truly grateful for the loving and tender care given to Marie in her final years at Kiwanis Lodge. There were some very special caregivers who went the extra mile for Marie and who also made an effort to say their farewells to her in such a loving way. Finally, we would also like to express our appreciation to Dorothy Martin, who was Marie’s devoted home caregiver and loving friend.
There will be a Memorial Tea for Marie on Saturday, January 7, 2012 from 1-4pm at the Royal Canadian Legion #56, 1630 East Wellington Road, Nanaimo, BC.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Marie’s name, to a children’s organization, Columbian Centre Society, HugABull Advocacy and Rescue Society, or the charity of your choice.