It is with sadness that we announce Muriel passed away in the Royal Jubilee Hospital on the morning of Wednesday, June 28, 2017. Muriel was born in Victoria on June 8, 1921 to Saanich pioneer farmers, Robert and Gertrude Mercer, and grew up alongside her older sister Phyllis on the family dairy farm in the Blenkinsop Valley. She was predeceased in 1994 by her devoted husband of fifty years, Ian and is survived by her son Paul (Stephanie), granddaughter Caitlin (Richard), and son Scott. Muriel began her teaching career in Union Bay and often recounted her memories of the 1946 earthquake that hit the community. She also taught in Kitimat but mainly in Victoria as a primary teacher.
In the early years of retirement, Muriel volunteered as a “play lady” at the Jubilee Hospital and later with Sendial. Advancing years and macular degeneration reduced her mobility and activities but until this past year Muriel could be seen using her walker taking a daily stroll to the duck pond at Cedar Hill Golf Course. Muriel enjoyed travelling, whether to Denman Island or more distant shores, and last year she celebrated her 95th birthday on yet another Alaskan cruise. She has now set sail for (as she often said) the great classroom in the sky.
Her family would like to thank Dr. David McNaughton for his ongoing care and support and also Dr. DeMott and all the staff on 4North at the Jubilee Hospital for their outstanding compassionate care.
At Muriel’s request, there will be no service. Remember her and smile when you and a friend share a walk, lunch, glass of chardonnay or a good joke. Muriel never lost her sense of humour.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Beverley Smith
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Barry Thompson Muriel taught me in Grade 3, and left me with pleasant memories. In her later years, I enjoyed our little talks when I delivered eggs to her.
She had a great sense of humor and always saw the positive side. Hers was a live well lived.
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Lorraine Elphick Dear Scotty
I’m am so sad to learn that your sweet Mom Muriel has passed away. I always enjoyed my lunches and visits with her and my Mom and she sure kept me laughing. She was honestly one of my favorite people that I have ever known. You were an amazing son to her and I know you will miss her so much.
Fondly,
Lorraine Elphick (Pateman)
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Lisa My deepest sympathy to Muriel’s family. May your fond memories
of her give you a measure of comfort at this difficult time.
Pour out your heart to God in prayer concerning your need for comfort. He will help because he wants you to rely on him.
2Corinthians 1:3,4
Paul, Scott and family
My late husband, Mel Smith, and I with Darrell and Sandra were next door neighbors for 13 years at 1272 Queensbury. I recall your mother being keenly interested in the development of our two new children. Your father and mother were kind and caring and also wonderful neighbors even when it was snowing and the road was closed. I extend my deepest. Beverley Smith