Gwendolyn Ellen Ewan died after a sudden illness on August 15, 2012 in Victoria B.C. Gwen was born in Nipawin, Saskatchewan on June 15, 1947. She is survived by her nephews John and Patrick Ewan, her niece Shar Ewan, and her sister-in-law Marie, all of Grande Prairie, AB.
Gwen spent her early career as a Parole Officer, a Warden of a federal penitentiary in Edmonton and a manager of a halfway house in Yellowknife. When she moved to BC she worked for VIHA in several roles as an addictions counsellor and administrator. Her extensive education included Masters degrees from the University of Alberta, Naropa University in Colorado, and the Vancouver School of Theology.
Gwen was associated with The Haven on Gabriola Island since the mid-1980’s where she was a much beloved program leader and was a vital part of its success. After her retirement she was dedicated to the work of the Victoria Heritage Foundation.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 24th at the Christ Church Cathedral at 11 AM. Donations may be made to either The Haven (240 Davis road, Gabriola Island, V0R 1X1) or the Victoria Heritage Foundation (c/o Victoria City Hall #1 Centennial Square, V8W 1P6). Condolences may be offered below.
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Melissa Holland
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Gail Pierangeli I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Gwen. I met Gwen when I was a mental health clerical assistant at Victoria Mental Health Centre between 1993 and 2000. To me, she was a very kind person who had cared for her clients and always seemed to have a smile on her face. She will be missed. My deepest condolences to her family!
I’m the alumni relations director at Naropa University; I wanted to express our sorrow at this news, and share our thoughts and prayers for Gwen’s family and friends.