Died at Royal Jubilee hospital in Victoria on September 4, 2012 at the age of 93. Born March 31, 1919 in Vermillion, Alberta to George and Elizabeth Law of Galston, Scotland, Mary was predeceased in 1997 by her husband Ken. Mary is survived by her five children: Stephen, Alan and his wife Lynda, Maria, Laura Griffin and her husband Bart, Eric and his wife, Margaret Mason. Ten grandchildren: Nicholas, Mary, Fiona and Astrid Pattison; Natalie and Tony Turpin; Ben, Julia and Alec Griffin; and Angus Pattison; and three great-granddaughters: Gillian and Jessica Turpin; Paige Pattison. Mary is also survived by her sister Anne Smith, and brother Jack Law and his wife June, plus many nieces and nephews.
Mary moved to Vancouver with her family in 1936 and after marrying Ken in 1942, settled in North Vancouver. The family moved to Naramata in 1957, followed by years in Penticton before relocating to Victoria in 1967.
Mary was an unusual woman for her day. At 50, she graduated as a Certified General Accountant and opened her own accounting practice. She became President of the CGA Board of Governors in 1988. In recognition of her contribution to the accounting profession, she was made a Fellow of the CGA Association of Canada. Mary was always involved in her community. She was active at Gordon Head United Church, and enjoyed her memberships in the Daughters of the Nile and the Order of the Eastern Star, where she received her 50-year pin in March 2012. In 2002, Mary was honoured to receive the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal recognizing her outstanding contributions to her community. Her love of music gave Mary great joy. She played the piano and sang in choirs all her life; in her younger days Mary took part in musical theatre. At the request of Lieutenant Governor Garde Gardom she was instrumental in bringing public musical performances to Government House. While on the Board of the Victoria Symphony, she launched the now famous Symphony Splash.
Mary was a woman of great character who lived a rich, full life. As a respected businesswoman and leader, she inspired many people to pursue their dreams. As a community volunteer, she committed her time and energy to countless organizations. She formed friendships that lasted a lifetime. Her caring, kind heart was a blessing to many people. As a mother and grandmother, she was the best. We will miss seeing her kind smile and will carry her love with us always.
A memorial service will be conducted by Rev. Dr. Michael Caveney at GORDON HEAD UNITED CHURCH, 4201 Tyndall Ave, Victoria on Thursday, September 13 at 2:00 p.m. Interment in April will be accompanied by a musical tribute to Mary. Donations mat be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children (www.shrinershq.org). or mail to Shrine Temple, Thunderbirds Scooter Unit, 3550 Wayburn Drive, Burnaby, B.C. V5G 3K9. Condolences may be offered below.
13 Responses
I will allways remember with appreciation and pleasure the time Mary and I spent enjoying the symphony together and her support for and contribution to the Falconridge community especially the years we were both on the Strata Council. Listening to the family remembering their Mother at the funeral and talking to those present at the reception highlighted for me what a special person she was. And thank you, Maria, for refering me to Catherine McLean!! A bonus!!l I send my condolences to all.
Elizabeth Laugharne
Mary was an inspiration to many CGA members and students. Through her hard work and dedication, she touched many lives with our Association.
I was born and raised in Victoria and I have benefited from her community involvement. Symphony Splash – simply amazing just like Mary.
My condolences for your loss.
Mary was such a wonderful lady. She came later in life to obtaining her FCGA, however, she more than made up for that by being such a staunch supporter. She was generous with her support, a great role model and she will be missed.
I was deeply saddened to read of Mary’s passing last week. I knew her through her volunteer work for Government House and the Victoria Symphony. She was a very special and generous lady who always took an lively interest in the lives of those around her.
What a wonderful photo of her!
Betty Wright
Sorry to read of your mom’s passing, Stephen. I remember
her as a tough, loving woman with such a warm twinkle in
her eye.
Condolences to you and your family.
From an old friend,
susan
We are saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. We have always thought highly of her.Our condolences for your loss.
Dear Maria & family,
My condolences for the loss of your mother. What a beautiful tribute to her in your write up in the newspaper. Such contributor to family and community.
My thoughts are with you.
Sincerely,
Wendy (Vantreight) Gedney
A gracious and loving friend who will be missed by all who knew her.
Mary was a well loved Member, and we enjoyed her music for many years. She will be fondly remembered for her loving ways
Rest in Peace Mary. Elda
We are deeply saddened by the news of Mary’s passing.
As Ken and Mary’s neighbors for many years, we can attest to their generosity and friendship. We hope that memories of happier days will sustain you during this difficulty time.
We will all miss her but we will treasure her warm, friendly and generous nature.
With deepest sympathy,
Bill Sidhu and family
1560 Brodick Cresent
Victoria, BC