October 1969 – January 2020
It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Dominica Sweet (Konken). For many years, she journeyed courageously and gracefully with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She was a source of light, joy and compassion, and lived her life fully until her passing on January 30th, with her family at her side.
Dom is survived by her husband, Derek; children Jackson (Tianna), Harrison; parents Frank and Ruby Konken; siblings, Stefanie (Peter) Zaytsoff, Frank (Brenda) Konken, Jamie (pre-deceased Anita) Konken; father in-law, Norman (pre-deceased Maida) Sweet; sisters-in-law, Laurie (Bobby) Sweet, Allison Sweet, Cindy (Bryan) Shier; her cats, Betty and Veronica; and dog, Roxy. Dom will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by family, friends and relatives.
Dominica was a Halloween baby, born on October 31, 1969 in Grand Forks, B.C. to proud parents, Frank and Ruby Konken. Dominica lived in the community she loved through graduation from Grand Forks Secondary School after which her path continued in Victoria, B.C.
Dom’s career began in ’94 after attaining her B.Sc at UVIC and RT certification at SAIT. Her entire career as a Respiratory Therapist was spent at the Royal Jubilee and Vic General Hospitals, until illness forced her to focus her energy on health.
Dom first met her soul-mate Derek Sweet in 1995 and they were married a year later in Victoria where they resided for a number of years before choosing to move to Saltspring Island . There Dom embraced the community and it embraced her, with open arms. Not long after, in 2000, Dom’s and Derek’s first son Jackson was born, followed by Harrison, two years later. Her two sons were always at the centre of Dom’s heart; she often volunteered to help in school events and fundraisers, and could always be found in the bleachers at any of their sporting endeavors. Dom’s other passion was fitness and seeking natural alternatives in health as well as encouraging others on their own journeys. As a result, she founded Dom’s Deodorant, which became a way for her to help others attain their natural health goals. There are so many fond memories of various celebrations, parties and gatherings with friends, family and co-workers during their many years together, memories that will always be cherished.
A Graveside Memorial Service will be held at Sion Cemetery in Grand Forks, BC on February 29 at 12:00, followed by a luncheon at the Grand Forks USCC Community Centre. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saltspring Island, BC at the Community Gospel Church on March 7 – doors open at 2:00 pm and Celebration will start at 3:00 pm.
Sincere appreciation to all those who have relayed kindness and support in so many ways.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Dom’s memory may be made to Hodgkins Lymphoma Society of Canada at https://www.lymphoma.ca/lymphoma/hodgkin-lymphoma
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.McCallGardens.com.
22 Responses
Derek, Jackson, Harrison and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. What an amazing, wonderful and strong lady Dominica was. She will be deeply missed by many.
Goodbye to you my Airway Angel. Your paths had a few bumps but you lived it to the fullest. What a wonderful inspiration you are to so many people. To Derek, Jackson, Harrison, I share your loss. Ken Pungente
Dear Derek, Jackson, and Harrison, and all of Dominica’s family,
We have been so fortunate to have bathed in the light of the amazing Dominica, and I will miss her shining light. Most of my fond memories are from our times on the sidelines of the soccer games, watching our boys play through the years. May her light shine on through you and through us all, and may you be comforted in knowing all the love she gave will not be forgotten,
LeeAnn, Sean, Davin and Owen Norgard
Derek, Jackson and Harrison,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will cherish every minute I was able to spend with Dom. She was one of the kindest people I have ever met and a true joy to be in the presence of.
She will continue in the memories that all that loved her.
Love, Dawne Sullivan and Family
(Ontario)
Dear Derek, Harrison and Jackson,
Our hearts are with you . We are so sorry for the loss of your wife and mother.
We did not know her well personally but heard so many great things about her over the years that we know she was an amazing, beautiful woman. She was admired and loved by so many and we hope that this love will help you through your difficult time.
Dear Derek,
So sorry for your loss.
Losing a loved one is never easy even if you have fore warning, as I well know from my own experience with my son.
The only comfort I can offer is to say that time is a great healer, and the pain does diminish over time. Both my wife Lavinia and I send you our heartfelt condolences.
Kindest regards
Bob & Lavinia Hann
Dearest Dominica,
Time spent with you was a gift – your dedication, kindness, friendship, and beauty were appreciated!
Sending you love. May you rest in peace.
Sending love and strength to your family and all your loved ones.
You will be forever in our hearts,
Donna
Warmest love and hugs from .so many beautiful memories, so much love .. for ever. Love , warmest love to all for ever
So sorry to hear about your daughter.
May she rest in Peace.
Our condolences.
Frank & Ruby, May God be with you.
Anne Potapoff-Hlookoff-Kehler.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Frank,Ruby and all your family…From your former neighbours in the valmar sub.