September 26, 1920 – October 31, 2015
Winnie passed away peacefully in her 95th year. She was predeceased in 2009 by her loving husband of 65 years, Willie, her parents Arthur and Emily Maude, step-mother Josie Johnson and her siblings Elvina Rainford (Collins), Doris Houghton and Arthur. She is survived by twin daughters Jean (Tom) Carlson and Janet (Dr. Gary) Dillabaugh, grandchildren Christopher (Avril), Dr. William (Dr. Kelly) and Jeanette Carlson and Hamilton (Beckie) and Cameron Muirhead and three great-grandchildren (Henry, George and Sophie Carlson). In Victoria, she is survived by her niece Marion Favor and her family. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, step-grandchildren and step-great-grandchildren throughout the world.
Winnie was born in Blackburn, Lancashire, where she completed her schooling and also training as a hair stylist. During the War years, she worked in the Fire Service in Blackburn while living with her family across the street from Ewood, the Blackburn Rovers football park. There in 1944, she met and married Willie Hamilton, a war-time policeman and left-half for Preston North End Football Club. At War’s end, Willie returned to Preston North End playing until 1948 when he transferred to Queen of the South in the Scottish League and Winnie and the twins moved to Scotland.
In 1955, the family immigrated to Victoria where Winnie’s Aunt Winnie Dunaway lived. Willie and Winnie built and lived for many years in the family home at 10 Mile Point, a place of “old country hospitality”, good food and lots of fun.
In retirement, Willie and Winnie traveled a great deal as their greatest pleasures were visiting family and friends. Winnie was a welcoming, kind and generous hostess who always had time for a “cuppa”, an extra plate at dinner or a spare bedroom for a visitor. She spent countless hours with the grandchildren and during her affliction, they all returned from throughout the world to visit with her.
A celebration of Winnie’s life will be held on Sunday, December 20, 2015 at McCall’s Floral Chapel, Johnson & Vancouver Streets in Victoria, B.C. at 1:00 pm with a reception to follow in McCall’s Family Centre.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saanich Pennisula Hospital Extended Care Unit, 2166 Mt. Newton X Rd., Saanichton, B.C. V8M 2B2.
Condolences for the family may be offered below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Catherine Ginther
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Dr Ken and Sally Wilson We send our deepest sympathy to Winnie’s family. She lived a wonder life for which we are thankful. Sorry we are unable to attend her service due to family illness. Ken and Sally.
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Nicki and Connor Blakesley We love you Winnie. You always kept us entertained. Now you get to continue upstairs. Xox
Janet and Jean,
My thoughts will be with you this coming Sunday, the 21st, as you and your families celebrate your Mum’s life. I know she will live on forever in your hearts. I felt privileged to meet her and spend time in her presence, and I quickly realized how very special a person she was.
My thoughts are with you all.
Catherine Ginther, Marion, Iowa USA