Kristine Mary Clarke, aged 61, passed away peacefully in Victoria on June 18th, with her loving family at her side.
Born on July 29th, 1961 in Banff, Alberta to Mary and Alan Clarke, she was predeceased by her father, Alan, and Paul, her half-brother. She is survived by her two daughters, Avalon (Nick) and Keely, her mother, Mary, her brother, Andrew (Rhonda), sister, Penelope (Paul), niece and nephew, Erica (Dan) and Edward, and partner, Duke.
In the early years of her life she displayed an interest in music, following in the footsteps of her family. Kristine graduated from Queen Elizabeth High School in 1979, before beginning her post-secondary journey at the University of Alberta. Following her first year, she received many scholarships to attend Boston University, where she completed a Masters of Music.
Kristine moved to Victoria after her time in Boston, where she met her future husband, with whom she raised their two beautiful daughters. In 2008, Kristine was diagnosed with lung cancer. Following surgery to remove part of one lung, she persevered and truly lived her life to the fullest.
Before retiring in 2020, Kristine worked for the BC Government for 17 years. She spent her extra time cooking, traveling, visiting family and attending all sorts of musical events.
She was a compassionate soul, always willing to help others. Her bubbly spirit and infectious laugh lit up any room she entered. We will miss her dearly.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
www.mccallgardens.com
-
Joe Foley
-
Judy Reeves So many heart warming memories of Kristine,from our Edmonton high school days, Queen Elizabeth Class of 79! From the raucous shenanigans to the beautiful music we played together, such fabulous times that shaped our lives for the next chapters. While the years have gone by, so many times I thought of you Kris, especially when hearing a flute singing in perfct pitch. Your laughter and beaming smile will resonate always. While your journey here with us has completed, your infectious spirit, and love of life will inspire us always as we reflect often on the warmth in our hearts that lives on. May you rest in peace my friend, you are never far away from our hearts and warmth of memories ❤️
-
Pamela Miller Dear Mary and family,
I am so sorry that you have lost your bright and shining light that was Kristine.She was such a kind and caring spirit. She came to share my home with me for about a year before moving on to marriage and children.I remember how delighted she was that her room was BLUE. Always a joy to be around and such a zest for living! When my relationship with my late husband Rob was new, I remember we babysat Avalon..it is now a joyful memory that I have of Rob and Kristine. Her time on earth was a blessing to those she touched. With Sympathy and Love. Pam Miller
-
September Payne Kristine was my best friend. We studied classical music together for years at the deepest level. She exuded genuineness, lacked agenda and loved and lived heartily. Kristine’s bravery on a daily basis taught me how to be more greatful and that the little things (and sometimes the big things) in life don’t really matter as long as one has connection and lives a balance of being true to oneself and sacrifice to others. On my last visit, the day before she went into the hospital, she told me that if death took her tomorrow, she felt happy and content that her daughters were on the right path and good world citizens. After sharing tears, she told me not to worry about her outcome, that the world’s natural rhythm in all things is impermanence and we all pass away. Kristine, your death was not in vain as you touched so many lives, including mine. I will rest in the wonderful memories while I miss you so!
-
Christine Prince I met Kristine at VCM and remember her as being so supportive of music education. I could always count on her support along with a wonderfully cheerful nature. And always, that great infectious smile. My heart goes out to her mother Mary and all her family and friends. She will be missed.
-
Diane Johnston My deepest condolences to the family. I worked with Kristine at RCY and remember her deep commitment to the work and the energy she brought to the office. I am so very sorry to hear of her passing. May she rest in peace.
-
Beverley Hyson God has taken you home now. I miss you so much my dear friend. I know we will meet again. God Bless you
my friend. Lots of love Bev.
-
Lisa Pashniak Dear Andy and Mary,
My memories transport me to north Edmonton and the nights of excitement when Kris was preparing to perform. I remember her Clarins skin routine and ironing her dress slacks, and her leaving for Boston. I remember seeing her at Andy and Rhonda’s wedding. And I remember that her smile remained the same, as did the laughter that radiated to her warm eyes.
To all of Kristine’s family, may your many memories of her comfort you.
-
Dianne Buljat Dear Avalon and Keely, I’ve heard so many stories about the two of you over the years. Kristine loved you with all her heart. Kristine and I worked together for a number of years at the Representative’s office and when I think of her … I hear the laugh. It is a good memory. Rest in peace Kristine.
-
Saunders Family One of the bravest women we have known. Her laughter at the ball park or her treating you at the grocery store like a long lost friend will be missed by many. Our thoughts are with Kristines family and our dear friends Avalon and Keely. Huge hugs from the Saunders Family.
-
Darlene Younger My deepest condolences to you Avalon, Keely, Mary and family. I had the pleasure getting to know Kristine through the years as our children went to school together. Always so lovely, thoughtful and bursting with kindness. I treasure the times we had and truly know heaven gained angel. You will be so missed❤️
-
Cathy McFadyen Thank you for being with us,and helping us at a crucial time Kristine.Your smile is contagious!At this time I offer your family condolences in the names of Suzy LaBelle (RIP) and myself Cathy McFadyen.You can rest now!
-
jacqui walker Always fond of you Kristine , was hoping to touch base this year, RIP
-
Alex Scheiber I first met Kristine in 2005 when we worked together for the BC public service in Victoria. She immediately impressed me with her energy, sense of humour and bright mind. Our families became good friends and we started camping together at Hornby Island during the summers. Gosh we had some good times! After our kids grew up my wife, Rhonda, and I remained close friends with Kristine and Duke as they farm sat for us and we regularly went to plays, musicals and dinners. I will always remember Kristine’s wonderful smile, her voice cracking as she laughed out loud and, her outgoing personality. These qualities, along with her optimism, remained until the end. Rhonda and I have lost a dear friend and we miss her terribly. Kristine, thank you for the wonderful times we had together, we will never forget you.
-
Maureen Schoenewolf Dear Mary, Avalon, Keely & Duke, my deepest and sincerest condolences. My heart is broken and I’m so devastated that she’s gone and still can’t believe this all happened so suddenly. I think of her every day and all of you as well and I can’t imagine how hard this is. Another angel in heaven. Will see you again next month.
-
Mary H. Clarke My darling daughter…Your have been such a joy to me. You have gone too soon.
I will remember the wonderful times growing up, the music making, and the trips. You have fought a brave battle against this terrible disease.
Rest in peace my love…
-
Lee Magnuson We are very sorry that we were not able to meet you in person. I am glad that you and my brother found each other, even if only for the short time it was. Thank you. May you rest in peace.
-
Deryk Friestadt My condolences to the family. I didn’t know her very well but she was always warm and welcoming when I was visiting Victoria. Thank you to Christine and her family for the wonderful memories.
-
Andrew Clarke You are at peace my Sister. You fought the good fight and survived for almost 15 years. We will always Love and Remember you.
Sadly, I’m seeing this over a year late. We’d only been in touch over Facebook for years and sometimes the algorithm just doesn’t keep you up to date. Kris was a lovely person with a heart of gold. Rest in peace, my friend.