We are deeply saddened by the passing of Denyse Dora Mathew, who succumbed to cancer on October 25th, 2014.
Born in Clermont, Quebec, and determined to make a life for herself, Denyse moved to Val-d’Or where she met and married Antonio Tomei, in 1956. Later she would move to Manitouwadge, Ontario, and Edmonton, Alberta, raising a happy family with Antonio and building a career as a banker at CIBC. In 2012, she was excited to move to Victoria for what she described as her latest adventure.
Denyse was an enigma; on one hand, she could create a feast from a stewing chicken and on the other hand, she loved fine linens, art, classical music, travel and the grace of a well-crafted piece of furniture. Denyse was a loving mother, doting grandmother and a loyal friend.
Left to mourn her loss are her children, Angie (Sid) Rashbrook, Leandro (Karen) Tomei and Luisa Tomei; her grandchildren, Janice (Trevor), Matthew (Nancy), Adrian, Daniela, Nicolas and great-grandson, Liam.
Denyse was predeceased by her husband, Antonio Tomei in 1990, second husband, Jack Mathew in 2009 and her brother, Rejean Chouinard in 2010.
In lieu of flowers, consider a donation in her honour to the charity of your choosing.
A prayer service will be held at 1:00 pm on Saturday, November 1, 2014, at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 680 Courtney Street, Victoria, B.C. Reception to follow.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
14 Responses
I met Denyse at our Newcomers Club in Victoria and on occasion had her as a partner at the bridge table. I’ll never forget her kind words while smiling as I led a card, saying, ‘I’m not sure what to lead.’ Denyse’ gentle response was, ‘You could always lead your partner’s invite.’ Her easy smile brought smiles to many.
My heartfelt condolences are with her family at this time.
Orlis Morgan
I would like to express my sincere condolences to Denyse’s family. I met Denyse at the newcomers club and always enjoyed her company. She was a lively member of our book club, and a great addition to our bridge games. I only had the pleasure of knowing her for a short time but I will miss her very much.
Leslie Bishop
Dear Leandro and Family,
We are sorry for your loss and we’re thinking of you. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Adam and Giulia
To Leandro, our prayers are with you and your family at this time.
The Fatica Family
Although I knew Denyse for only a year or two, I loved her lively sense of humour and joy of living. She was always a welcome guest in my home. There was never a dull moment in her presence. She will be missed by many. Sincere condolences to her family.
We were shocked by the sudden death of your mother. We saw her last at Adrian’s graduation at the end of May and she seemed OK then. Leandro, Luisa and Angela; we give you our sympathies. It is so hard to say good by to your own mother.
Love; Romeo and Sheila.
My prayers and thoughts go to Denyse’s family. I didn’t know her very long but she was one of the nicest people I ever met. She was kind and loving. Love Louise
our deepest sympathy to all of you in the loss of your Mom. May you find peace in knowing that Ma Tante is with your father and my dad. She is suffering no more. love suzanne
We want to offer our condolences to Denise’s family. Denise was a neighbor in Edmonton. She and I shared many glasses of wine as we solved the problems of the world. She will be missed.
To Denyse`s family.
We offer you our most sincere sympathies for your loss.
Denyse was a great neighbour and friend in Edmonton Riverbend.
May God Bless.
John and Marie