Margaret passed away on Friday, May 6, 2016 at 95 years of age. She was predeceased by her husband, Terry in 1981 and brothers, John and Alfred Wakeman. She is survived by sons, David and John; daughter, Pat (Larry); grandchildren, Dana (Greg), Chandra, Taryn, Gavin and 5 great grandchildren.
Born in 1920 in Burnley, England, the “Lancashire Lass” attended Leeds University graduating in 1941 with an Honour’s Degree in History. In 1942, Margaret began her teaching career in London where she met and married Canadian soldier Lieutenant Terence Rourke serving with the Royal Canadian Engineers. She emigrated to Canada as a war bride in 1946. Margaret began her life in Canada living in Kingston, ON while her husband completed his studies at Queen’s University. The family later lived in Jolliet, QC, Lime Ridge, QC, Plattsburgh, NY, St. Bruno, QC and Nelson, BC. She taught at the Berlitz Language School in Montreal and enjoyed her work as assistant Registrar at Notre Dame University in Nelson. She moved to Victoria in 1978. For over 35 years, she was a regular at the Monterey Centre in Oak Bay. During this period, she travelled the world and immersed herself in varied literary, language and musical activities. For six years, she enjoyed being a resident of Carlton House until Alzheimer’s Disease necessitated a move to Mount Saint Mary’s Hospital in 2011.
The family is very grateful for the care and kindness provided by the nurses, staff, volunteers and residents of MSM. The family especially appreciates the devotion and kindness of her care worker companion, Judith Kelsey. Margaret’s past 8 years were also enriched by her special friend, Derek, who passed away earlier this year.
Margaret was blessed with a sharp intellect and a keen interest in music, literature and history. She loved to get out for a walk. She generously supported family and friends in words and deeds. She will be sadly missed.
A celebration of her life will be held on July 7th.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall’s Funeral Home
www.mccallbros.com
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Heather
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Dana I’m glad to have had as much time as I did. Thank you for so many great memories!
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Taryn Love you forever Grandma Bunny!
A very remarkable woman – courageous and intelligent, very kind and loving. I will miss her terribly but I am very glad to have known her and to have shared a small part of her life. Love you and will remember you always, Bunny.