Passed away at the Royal Jubilee Hospital on July 27, 2010 at age 79. She was born in Saskatoon on April 15, 1931, the only daughter of Emmet and Hazel Tobin. She is survived by her ever-proud husband Stan, daughter Kathleen of Maple Ridge, BC, Cousins Helen of Lake Cowichan, Dorothy of San Diego, Calif, and Walter of Sonoma Calif.
She received her early schooling at a Convent in Biggar; Little Flower Academy, UBC first year Arts, and Normal School in Vancouver, where she began a teaching career to which she became thoroughly dedicated. Following marriage with Stan, she attended night classes at UVIC and earned a B.Ed. which enabled her to proceed with many years of employment specializing as a Learning Assistance Teacher at various elementary schools in the Saanich District. Children with a variety of problems benefited greatly from assistance provided for them by a caring and dedicated teacher.
Added to her love of teaching, her abiding interests were: her Catholic Faith, women’s causes, anti-war, and aid for those who are deprived and in need. Her compassion was manifested in her on-going donations to various charities in the Victoria Area.
She led a truly exemplary life.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated by Monsignor Michael Lapierre in HOLY CROSS CHURCH, 4049 Gordon Head Road, on Wednesday, August 4th at 11:00 a.m., followed by a reception. Interment thereafter at Royal Oak Burial Park. Tributes, if desired, may be made to the Arthritis Society of BC, 2680 Richmond Road, Victoria, BC V8R 6W4. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.mccallbros.com
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Gay Benson (daughter of John Aasen)
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Richard Ambridge Kathleen, Stan, I was so sorry to hear of Gertrudes passing. I know we’ve fallen out of touch, but When I heard, I just had to send a note. Our hearts are with you, and we do care. Kim, Richard , and Michael,
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Sharon Lassey On behalf of the Lower Vancouver Island Retired Teachers, I would like to express our condolences in your time of sorrow. Many of us remember Gertrude in her time of teaching and feel your loss.
Sharon Lassey, Sunshine Com.
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Eleanor Eastick Dear Stan – my heart is with you in your sorrow. You could not have done more to ease Gertrude’s suffering and to help her in every way. Her life was indeed exemplary.
I’m sure she is as proud of you as you were of her….
I wish you the peace and comfort of Church and family.Kindest regards……..Eleanor
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Rita Tavanetz (Tobin) Stan and Kathleen, I received notice from Dorothy of Gertrude’s passing. Sorry for your loss, thoughts and prayers are with you . I am the youngest daughter of Jim and Norah Tobin of Biggar. And grand daughter of Gus and Addie Tobin. I grew up and live in Biggar. I know of the convent,St. Gabriel’s that Gertrude attended, as I took my schooling there, but it wasn’t a convent anymore. I keep in touch with Dorothy and Darlene(Gates). Darlene was out to visit last summer. I would love to know how we are related. Did you know my dad? Were you ever out to Biggar? With mom and dad gone there isn’t that contact left. Hope to hear from you, sincerely Rita
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Vicki Reese Kathleen, thinking of you and your Dad at this time and sending love and hugs your way. Your Mom was a wonderful teacher who made a big impact on many people and children during her life. A very inspiring lady!
Thinking of you during this difficult time…..Vicki
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Yolanda Daughtry Kathleen and Stan,
May you be surrounded by all the memories and love from a wonderful woman. What a beautiful obituary. You must be so proud.
All my thoughts and prayers are with you both at this most difficult time. ~ Yolanda
Dear Stan and Kathleen. I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you both at this most difficult time. I am so sorry that I could not attend the service as I was away but am glad my brother, Johnny could attend for the Aasen family. I remember a lot about Gertrude even from the time I was about 8 years old. She was always kind to us “Aasen” kids and I remember that she said that we were all good workers. I was greatly surprised and pleased that she became my son Rod ‘s teacher in the learning assistance program which has helped him to this very day. Please take care. Love, Gay and Family