February 2, 1951 - April 3, 2024
In Loving Memory ~
It is with a heavy heart that we announce to you, after a short battle with cancer, the passing of our dear mom, wife, sister, aunt, and friend. Laurel transitioned peacefully at Prince Rupert Hospital with her loving family by her side.
"So much love and so many beautiful memories... makes for a very difficult good-bye"
Laurel was born and raised in Nanaimo BC. She came from humble beginnings as a large family, living in the country, she used to say how the story of kids walking five miles to school in the snow with holes in their shoes was them. In the late 1960's she made the move to Prince Rupert in search of a better life. She fell in love with the small coastal town and started a family.
As a child she had dreamed of becoming a nurse and so she decided to pursue that same field by becoming a first aid attendant at BC Packers and Atlin Terminals. For what seemed a lifetime she spent at the canneries, sitting on safety boards, massaging sore muscles, handing out gloves and bandaging wounds. By most though she would be remembered as a smiling face, ear to listen and friend to so many.
Laurel was very active in sports and community playing squash, racquetball, volleyball, softball, curling and golf. She loved to volunteer and was usually seen in the pouring rain planting flowers in the sunken garden or beautifying acropolis manor. She was involved with many boards, clubs, and organizations like the gardening club, curling club, golf club and seniors center.
She was very passionate about the care and keeping of her town and treasuring her many lifelong friendships. She enjoyed giving back to her community and that usually included cooking breakfast for other seniors on Sundays as well as donating to local causes and charities.
When Laurel retired, she became busier than ever and was truly living her best life. She gave even more time to her community but also found time for her weekly bridge games, golf seasons, lake life, family time and other adventures. She loved to travel to places all over the world, enjoyed reading hundreds of books, painting, crafting, laying in the sun and enjoying a glass of wine.
Laurel lived a life in service. She was a strong willed, independent woman who always wanted to make herself a good life and that's exactly what she accomplished. She was and is truly an inspiration right up until her last breath, always holding out for hope and never giving up. She will forever be missed by all that knew and loved her.
Those left to cherish her memory are numerous beginning with her loving husband of 38 years John; daughters Lee-Ann (Jeff and Lacey), Cindy (Evan and Elyse), Pam (Ryan) and Alison (Steve, Marissa, and Brevin); sisters Susan and Betty Lou; Brothers Billy, Butch, David, Mark, and Douglas.
So many nieces, nephews, and blended family members.
Predeceased by her parents Oscar Stewart, Mary Stewart (nee Lansdell) and her sister Sunday.
Thank you to the amazing nurses, Dr's and first responders who provided care, comfort, and compassion during her fight with Lymphoma.
As per Laurels request there will not be a service.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating on Laurels behalf to the BC Cancer Foundation.