In Loving Memory of Wendy Ann Sobkowicz (nee Munro)
Wendy, a beloved wife, mother, grandma, sister, and friend passed away peacefully surrounded by her immediate family on June 17, 2025. Though her time with us was far too short, the love she shared, the kindness she extended, and the memories she created will remain with us always.
Born and raised in Victoria, BC, Wendy grew up with fire in her spirit and wheels under her feet – whether it was playing hockey, Irish dancing, cheerleading or driving around in her Volkswagen, she surely had a love for adventure. She met her soulmate Ian Sobkowicz at Reynolds Secondary School – introduced through her brother Doug’s friend group, their connection was instant and enduring, a true example of lifelong love and loyalty. They married in 1978 at St. Luke’s Church – beginning a beautiful life together. They raised three daughters: Jenna, born in 1987 and twins Kyla and Tracy, born in 1991. Wendy stood proudly by their sides through every challenge and celebrated every achievement — always cheering from the sidelines of countless soccer games.
She was happiest with her hands in the garden, baking a wholesome treat, or swimming whenever the opportunity arose. Wendy, Ian and the girls cherished their time together as a family. When they weren’t working on a renovation or tackling a yard project, they could be found adventuring into the wilderness — hiking, camping, four-wheeling, or setting out on countless boating trips to explore the local waters, with their most cherished destination being Desolation Sound. The family was also grateful to enjoy three generations of summers at the Munro cabin on Shawnigan Lake.
Wendy worked at the Royal Bank for many years, it was there that she met some of her lifelong best friends. Years later, going back to school to become a Health Care Assistant, her big heart and patience fit this occupation perfectly. She retired in 2017 on the Peninsula, shortly after moving to Sooke where she often walked Whiffin Spit with friends. Wendy became a grandma to Hope (Jenna) in 2019, devoting much of her retirement to spending time with family, being present during these years was so important to her.
In Wendy’s final days, as she faced immense challenges of late stage and recently diagnosed pancreatic cancer, her kindness never wavered. Her gentle spirit, strength and quiet courage were deeply felt by everyone around her. She continued to think of others, offer love and share her warmth-even as she endured her own pain. Her grace in the face of adversity was truly inspiring, and she left a lasting mark on all who had the privilege of being near her. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and joyful adventure.
Many thanks to the entire team at The Royal Jubilee Hospital, most notably the palliative care floor during Wendy’s brief stay.
Wendy is survived by her loving husband Ian, daughters Jenna (Cory & Hope), Kyla (Joe), Tracy (Taylor & expecting baby boy), and a wide circle of family and friends who loved her dearly. Predeceased by her parents Donald and Barbara, and brother Douglas Munro.
At Wendy’s request, there will be no public service. A private celebration of life will be held by her immediate family near the ocean. Honor Wendy by doing something joyful in her memory – go for a swim, travel and explore new places. Most importantly, be kind to all.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Sobkowicz” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Dwane/Diane Erickson
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Karen and Don Gordon We were so saddened to hear of Wendy’s passing. She was a kind and caring person, always eager to listen and take interest in others’ lives. We always looked forward to visits with Wendy at family gatherings. Our hearts go out to her family and friends during this difficult time.
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Lyn Bull (Jakimchuk) When I think about Wendy I always see her smile. Genuine and kind Wendy was a beautiful spirit to all who encountered her. I met Wendy and Ian through mutual friends Kim & Deb Lawrence. Later, Wendy and Ian attended lamaze class when we had our first babies in 1987. Jenna and Sean were born 3 days apart. We spent time together as new mothers. Through the years our paths no longer crossed but I did get to see her at a ladies luncheon a year before her illness. Wendy’s smile still stays in my memory . Sending deepest condolences to Ian and all the family and friends. May the memories of her loving ways help you smile even through difficult days .
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Katrina Grover My deepest condolences to ALL of Wendy’s Family & Friends.
I knew Wendy as such a loving, caring, gentle soul with a beautiful family back in my Brentwood days, while our kids attended schools together. We had some wonderful visits and walks together (always a gorgeous, very well behaved retriever in tow).
I have many memories of Wendy & Family and their loving welcoming home in Brentwood. My heart goes out to ALL ❤️ Katrina
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Kim Bowles So sorry to hear of Wendy’s Passing. Our Thoughts and Prayers are with Ian and all the Family. I was a grade ahead of Wendy and one behind Ian at Reynolds. A lot of great memories from that time. Was up to the Munro cabin a couple of times. Remember all the time you had together. Life is too short.
Kim Bowles
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Jill Walker Wendy and I shared a bedroom in our childhood home – her side was neat and tidy, mine not so much. We both did Scottish Highland dancing around swords and wearing our kilts. We both played ice hockey and both worked at banks at some point. We shared many similar things…
I remember when she was 13 and Ian rode his motorbike up to our family cabin at Shawnigan Lake. That was the start of their relationship.
Years later they married and had three beautiful daughters.
Wendy was a loving and caring Mom and was so proud of each of them. She was overjoyed when she became a Grandma as well.
Wendy loved the outdoors, her dogs and was known for her homemade healthy goodies. She was a very kind, compassionate, considerate and private person.
Her life was far too short but I know she will continue to be with us in spirit.
I’ll love you always and forever Wendy.
Thank you for being my older sister. You will be missed by so many!Your sister,
Jill. ❤️
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Philip Dodge I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Wendy. She was a truly kind and compassionate person, always ready with her hallmark friendly smile and positive outlook. She always took a genuine interest in others, and I have fond memories of her on the sidelines interacting with the parents and supporting Peninsula Soccer ladies soccer.
Please accept my sincerest condolences.
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Ann Britney My Dearest Wendy
Friends for so long, a friend I could confide too. Loyal and honest with genuine interest in our families. We supported each other. Thank you for always being there for my family. Your kindness and unconditional support was always there over our many, many years together.
The privilege of being her friend was inspiring. I was honored to call her my best friend. Wendy’s presence walks beside us all. She is truly missed, her strength, her unconditional love, support and beautiful smile, will go with me.
My heart goes out to Ian, Jenna (Cory), Kyla (Joe), Tracy (Taylor) and Granddaughter Hope and Baby Williams. Love you all.
Ann Britney and family.
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Brent Munro Wendy was a kind, beautiful caring and compassionate soul. She will be fondly remembered my so many especially her family , husband and her 3 daughters and their families .
Wendy was the person who spent time baking from scratch the Christmas cookies, loaves, squares and balls. She would wrap them all up in a festive tray and hand deliver to her family every year. Her personal touch showed her caring nature over something bought from a store.
With our family of 4 and 9 grand children we all shared many family birthdays, holidays and special occasions together. Wendy and her family were a huge part of that and I have such wonderful memories.
Our family has lost another beautiful soul but I believe my Brother Doug, Mom and Dad, and many others were there to welcome Wendy with a big smile and open arms.
Wendy will now be looking over all of us and smiling at all our accomplishments in life.
Wendy – I love you and miss you .
Your Brother Brent
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Leah Munro My beloved Aunty Wends was the kindest, most genuine, and loving soul I’ve ever known. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel truly seen, heard, loved and cared about.
When my dad became ill, I felt deeply honoured when he mistook me for her and began calling me by her name. Through some of the darkest and most difficult moments, Wendy and Ian stood by me and my family with a gentle presence and warmth that never wavered.
Her constant support, quiet patience, and incredible strength were qualities I always admired.
She was taken from us far too soon, and her absence leaves a space that can never be filled. To me, to my family, and I know to many others, she was irreplaceable. Someone deeply cherished and forever loved.
I am eternally grateful for the love, support and memories I was able to experience with her and her family.
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Patricia Munro Dearest Wendy, not a day goes by she is not in our thoughts and missed with all our hearts. Her kindness, warmth, generosity and sense of wonder made her a pleasure to know. The wonderful moments we shared as family, at Shawnigan, the ocean and one very special trip to Desolation Sound gave us precious memories.The unwavering support she and Ian gave to Doug and our family was a gift beyond words.
Her love for Ian, Jenna, Kyla and Tracy was obvious in everything she did. When Cory, Joe and Taylor came into the family she shared that love as only Wendy could. Her girls will continue to grow and share her love with Hope and Baby Williams and those around them.
Her time was much too short but we were honoured and blessed to share it. We will cherish our memories and think of her bright light sparkling on the water and all around us.
Pat Munro and family.
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Alyse Munro Auntie Wends was always there for the Munro girls. A sweet, gentle presence. Always looking out for others, she invited us into her family celebrations after dad went into care.
I know she’s watching over my garden as my blooms have all been timed to special Sobkowicz events this summer. With the callas I planted in her memory arriving for Tracy’s baby shower and the first two calendula grown from her seeds opening today.
We will miss her sweet nature and beautiful smile but every bloom will remind me of the sunshine she brought to a room.
Words cannot express our sorrow and sadness when hearing of Wendy’s illness and passing. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire family and loved ones who have come to know her and Ian.
It did not take long to get to know Wendy and Ian shortly after we moved into our new home, right next door, in the new neighborhood. Seems like we had the same idea. Retirement rancher style home, nice quiet neighborhood and make new friends.
Then we went away on a big trip and when we came back, our hearts melted when Ian told us of her fight. We still find it hard to come home now, always expecting Wendy to pop out of nowhere, with a huge smile and a friendly hello. And it always turned into more conversations. We sure do miss her.
Dwayne/Diane and Family