February 12, 1924 – July 16, 2010
With great sadness, the family of Faith Reimer announce her passing on July 16th, 2010. We have lost a bright light. Courageous to the end, Faith passed away peacefully in Victoria Hospice.
Faith is survived by Dave Reimer, the love of her life for 64 years. She is also survived by her loving children and their spouses, Derek Reimer (Maxine Charlesworth), Catherine Panter (Randy), and Christine Reimer (Bruce Heayn), her siblings, Frank Woodward, Connie Roberts, Felicity Morgan, Chris Woodward and their spouses, many other family members, former colleagues and friends. She will be especially missed by her six grandchildren, Allison, Andrew, Joe, David, Caitlin and Emily and their partners, and by her two great-grandchildren, Olivia and Max.
Faith had many talents and a fine mind and used her gifts to carry on a productive and joyful life. Dearly loved by her family for her liveliness and good sense, she formed meaningful connections with each family member regardless of diversities of style, interest or age. Her last months were filled with the same humour, grace and optimism that carried her through all her life.
Faith was the perfect match with her husband, Dave. They met at UBC and both were teachers who had a strong influence on their students. In partnership, they raised their children, flourished in their careers and then enjoyed many years of travel around the globe together. They visited every continent, except Antarctica. In later years, Faith received equal pleasure from the travels of her children and grandchildren. They hosted innumerable “family scrums” where the always lively discussions followed the “don’t talk while I’m interrupting” protocol. Open and fair-minded debate on many subjects was the order of the day. Faith, as matriarch of this noisy crowd, took huge delight and managed it all with her unvarying attitude of “can do and no complaints”.
Victoria born and bred, Faith had a deep appreciation of her family roots and local history. She attended Victoria High School, taught History and English there, in addition to playing a pivotal role in the establishment and operation of the school Archives. She was recently recognized by naming the Archives room as the Faith Reimer Room. This recognition brought her great pleasure in the last weeks of her life.
Our heartfelt thanks go to Lucille Porlares, Mum’s care-giver, and Elaine Mudie, friend and neighbour. Sincere appreciation also goes to the Red Cross and to the VIHA Home Care Nurses, especially Kory. Their support made it possible for Faith to remain at home until the last few days of her life.
A Celebration of Faith’s life will be held on Saturday, July 31st at 2:30 p.m. in St. Michael and All Angels Church, 4733 W. Saanich Road with reception to follow.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in her memory to the Red Cross, or the Victoria High School Alumni Association Archives, 1260 Grant Street, V8T 1C2, would be appreciated.
11 Responses
Christine , Bruce, Caitlin and Emily
I was looking up a friend of mine father’s obituary and saw that your Mother had just passed away. I know from having been in the Froese clan just how highly regarded your Mom and Dad are from Fred’s perspective. I think of our time together every time I see one of your paintings here in Kelowna Christine.
May you be comforted by all your memories of your Mom.
Sincerely,
Darlene