In loving memory of a life beautifully lived and a heart deeply loved
Susan passed away peacefully at home with family members at her side. She was 67 years old at the time of her death, due to cancer. She is survived by her husband of 45 years, Gordon, and two sons, Ryan in Edmonton, and Aron in Nanaimo. Susan was predeceased earlier this year by her mother, Elaine Atkins and in 2001 by her brother, Steven Atkins. She had two grandchildren, Chloe and Trent, both in Edmonton. She is also survived by her sisters, Jane Sutherland in Port Alberni and Catherine Kubat in Leduc, and her father, Stan Atkins in Port Alberni. She will be missed by many family members and friends here on Vancouver Island, in the rest of BC, and across western Canada and the NWT.
Susan was born and raised on the Queen Charlotte Islands (Haida Gwaii) and lived mainly in Masset before leaving the Islands, with her husband, to work and live in other parts of BC, Manitoba, and the NWT. Her time on the Charlottes instilled in her a great love of the ocean, which she carried with her always. She worked in the accounting field and often applied these skills and experiences to various volunteer groups and organizations in which she was involved.
Susan had a great love for family. She was in regular contact with relatives and friends, either in person, via phone, text, or e-mail. She was very proud of and devoted to her grandchildren and had a close relationship with them, including road trips and flights to Edmonton. She developed many lifelong friends, who became members of her extended family. She had a very generous nature, and willingly gave of her time, experience, and personal attention.
Susan had two passions that were obvious to all who knew her. These were quilting and cooking. In addition to these interests, she was also talented in many other artistic pursuits, including painting, sewing, knitting, and needlework. She willingly shared her knowledge and skills with others, both formally and informally. She was very active in the quilting communities in Port Alberni, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach. Susan had a great love for quilting retreats held on Vancouver Island. She will be missed in these communities.
Susan was a master chef, and her meals and treats were known and appreciated by many people. She was always looking for a better recipe and often listened to cooking shows while her sewing machine was humming on her latest quilt. She treasured meals with friends and family where she could generously apply her cooking passion. These meals were the stuff of legends.
Susan was a strong, positive, loving, and determined person who never let life's obstacles and challenges hold her back. She will be dearly missed and never forgotten by her family, who loved her so much.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Susan's memory are asked to consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Society or the West Coast General Hospital.
YATES MEMORIAL SERVICES 250-723-5859 "Lives Cherished and Celebrated"
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
Yates Memorial Services