Our beloved Julie was born on February 3, 1970. She left us suddenly on March 18, 2024.
Born and raised on the West Coast, Julie had a deep love and respect for the ocean, where she found peace and her final resting place. We can imagine her dancing with abandon upon sparkling water, bound for shores we cannot see.
Julie lit her way through this world with her beautiful smile, boundless heart and fierce spirit, while speaking her truth with compassion and respect for all she met. With undying devotion for family and friends, Julie would never shy away from challenges, standing strong for her ethics and high moral standards. Showing a deep connection to all living things, her instinctive love of animals was a constant source of joy. Time amongst the plants in the sanctuary of her yard would always provide peace.
Highlighting Julie’s days was her immersion in yoga practice, which served to ground her and brought many special people into her life.
Always the number one supporter of her son, Jared, Julie brought unconditional love, wisdom and experiences to guide his journey.
The past twenty years Julie shared with her best friend and husband, Harri, embracing the time together soaking in the adventures of life. No words can express the sadness of her absence.
Julie is survived by husband, Harri; son, Jared; mother, Louise; sisters, Paula and Andrea; brother, Josh and dear friend, Merla.
Julie left us five months ago. We are immensely saddened that she is no longer amongst us. With broken hearts and eternal hope, we continue to await her return.
In Julie’s memory, pause a moment … extend a little kindness and charity towards others.
Forever loved, always with us.
Blessing:
“May the long time sun
shine upon you
All love surround you,
And the pure light within you,
Guide your way on.”
A Celebration of Julie’s Life will be held in the Sequoia Centre at McCall Gardens, 4665 Falaise Drive, on Monday, September 16, 2024, at 10:00 am. Following the Celebration, there will be an informal gathering, rain or shine, at Island View Beach. All are welcome to join together to share memories and stories of Julie. Please wear bright colours.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Shawna Hodgkinson
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Corey Scholefield Harri, Jared, Paula, Josh, and Nicole
Thank you all for your heartfelt words for Julie at the celebration this week. The gathering was lovely in the way it brought so many people together to share in their memories of her. And on such a lovely day. She will live on in all our memories.
Harri, thanks for your strength and words you shared on how we can tend to this loss, our grief, and our love for Julie.
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Brent Anthonisen I was sad to hear of Julie’s passing, she was such a nice person. She was happy, friendly and kind. Everybody will miss her very much.
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Terry Tan We are shocked to hear of Julie’s suddenly passing. I knew Julie at Thrifty Foods for many years and she was always kind, energetic and offered help to everyone. We are going to miss her very much, her smile and her kind personality.
Our deepest condolences to her family.
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Laurie Barker Harri, Jared, Aunt Louise, Paula, Andrea, Josh
I still can’t believe she gone. RIP Julie
My thoughts will be with you all on Monday
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Jamie Barker Our hearts are broken. We can’t believe our west coast cousin is gone. Julie was so loved and gave love to all those that had the privilege to know her.
She will be forever missed.
Our sincere condolences to Harri , Jared, Aunt Louise, Paula, Andrea and Josh and family
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Jill Dierick Julie had the biggest most beautiful, smiling, kind eyes. When she said anything, no matter how silly and insignificant, or serious and poignant, she truly meant it.
I felt like I could always talk to her, and she was there to listen and help. She was trustworthy and old fashioned, yet down to earth and cool. She was a truly incredible, one of a kind boss, and most of all, human.
The world would be a different place if it was filled with people half as special as you dear Julie.
My deepest condolences to Julie’s family and all who loved her.
Thank you for all of your kindness, understanding and laughter all those years ago at Thrifty’s Julie.
May you sleep with the angels.
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Mike Niederlinski Dear Harri and Family,
We were very saddened to hear of Julie’s passing, but ever grateful to have known her. The Camrose community has always had a special character and Julie’s warmth and friendly smile will ever remain an indelible part of that.
We often think of Julie while on our walks in the neighbourhood, as that’s where we chatted with her most. We both hope that as time passes, the sorrow and grief of loss are softened by joyful memories of the love that Julie brought to your lives.You are in our hearts and thoughts,
Mike and Marie-Claire
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Paul's Eng Oh Harri and family. I really don’t know what to say. I have only known Julie for a short time but she was the best neighbour one could ask for. Always there to stop for a chat. Often ready to take off on her bike or go for a walk. It feels like I am missing something when I go out. Julie would often give me a hug, her last words to me were ” your a great hugger “. I can still feel those loving arms around me.
May you rest in peace Julie.
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mary ann phillips I went to school with Julie at Cowichan Senior Secondary. I hadn’t seen her in years and then ran into her at Thrifty foods a few years ago and we had a great conversation. She was always a kind sweet person. I am saddened and shocked at her passing. Sending condolences to her husband and son I know how much she loved you and to the rest of her family and friends.
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Irene & Bob Zaleschuk Julie was one of the kindest person I have ever met. We worked many years together at Thriftys. I retired not long after she was off work and we became walking buddies. So many places she took us and so many memories and of course lots of coffees! She will always be in my heart and with me whenever I am walking. Big hugs to Harri and family, and to Julie in heaven. I know you are in good hands
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Roxanna Franklin Dear Harri. A moving tribute to your beloved, Julie; it embodies her beautiful, authentic self.
I’ve always thought of her as a force of nature “full of energy, unstoppable, and unforgettable”.
Although we only got to know you when we moved to Camrose in 2018, we enjoyed your friendship. If Dave was still with us, he would be gutted by this terrible news.
I value the time I spent with Julie (cycling to the Red Barn Market on West Saanich, hiking Mt. Doug, and of course endless loops around the chip trail). Julie drove me to the airport when I left two years ago and I looked forward to when you guys would visit to enjoy some of the UK’s fabulous walking holidays. It makes me so sad to think I won’t see her when I return to visit.
Julie was obviously loved and touched the lives of everyone she met, how fortunate we were. She was fun and quirky but also serious and respectful but most of all, she listened.
According to the National Institutes of Health, the loss of a life partner is considered “an emotionally devastating event and the most stressful of all possible losses on life event scales”. Everyone’s relationship is different but it was obvious to us (and everyone who knew you), that yours was one of those truly special ones and in that way, you were blessed.
Those who have not experienced this massive loss cannot know the utter wreckage it brings. One day you’re married; the next day you’re not. It takes a very long time to emerge from profound grief and the more loving the lost relationship was; the harder the emerging process.
As it’s considered the only loss where every aspect of your life changes, “it plunges you into an experience where your intellect cannot protect you” and “it kicks away the props you rely on”. (Hilary Mantel on CS Lewis’ ‘A Grief Observed’ on the death of his wife)
There is often much pretence around grief but I hope that the people who loved Julie are there for you, her son, and the others in her life that were closest to her.
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Sylvie Leduc-Johnston Julie, was an exceptional woman who was so, so kind and loving. A brilliant light and an inspiration to many. I miss her loving personality and she was so heartfelt. She remains deeply embedded in my heart. ❤️ My deep condolences to her husband Harri and son Jared and including her mother and siblings and all who loved her. I miss her contagious smile and loving kindness!! May she rest in peace!!
Much love Sylvie
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Sheryl and Terry Orr My sincere condolences for Harri, Jared and Julie’s family. Julie was such a lovely person. She was kind, caring and such fun to be with. May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this time.
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Chrissy Gourlay My love for this beautiful soul will never be lost. I loved Julie like a sister. She was a bright light to me in dark times and will remain that light for me in spirit. I’ll never forget her kind and loving ways. I will forever miss her bright smile. A smile that lit up a room. Until we meet again my friend. My condolences to all her family and friends
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Paul Harris My dear friend. Words can’t express how I feel. We shared so many fantastic times together in happiness and in sorrow. You are the best person I ever knew. My condolences go out too all that knew and loved you. My dear friend Harri I love you. Life will never be the same without your shining light. I miss you and love you.
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Rob & Cheyl d'Estrube Jules. Kind, gentle soul, friend, inspiration, neighbour and beauty in all ways; the consistent flame of joy lighting our lives at every encounter. Julie is profoundly appreciated and missed by so many: we are stunned but ever grateful for the chance to know and learn from her. She leaves wonderful indelible changes in every heart.
Harri. Good on you for knowing, treasuring and nurturing a good thing when you saw it. It takes one to know one. You have our hearts in both the joys and sorrows.
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Michelle Harris Julie….. we had so many great adventures together, from music, singing and dancing in our living rooms to adventures travelling and enjoying amazing experiences! You always brought joy into my life, supporting through the rough times and celebrating with exuberance in the good! I always loved your messages, usually with sparkly good wishes and an uplifting greetings ! These memories are cherished and will be there forever in my heart. You are missed and loved xox
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Corey Clayton She was such a kind and energetic soul, but she had a deep sadness that she hid from all of us. She has left an impact on me that I will never forget. She was my second ever boss and I will always be grateful to the doors that opened to me as a result of her taking me on. I always knew her as somebody that I could talk to and confide with about anything. My condolences to her family.
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Pam deVooght I was deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Julie. During my time at Thrifty Foods, Julie’s kindness and warmth were always a beacon of positivity. I fondly remember her smile and friendly hello, when our paths crossed when I stopped by the store or through work.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences during this difficult time. My thoughts are with you and your family as you navigate this loss.
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Lenora Jean Dear Harri and Julie’s family
I am shocked and saddened to hear of Julie’s passing.
You and Julie were more than our neighbors, Harri. You were a bright spot in our day, whenever Annie and I had the good fortune of seeing and chatting with you as we walked by your home. You are kindred souls, both such kind and loving people. Mirrored twins, next of kin.
Thinking of you with deep condolences
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Lisa Lee Julie been my front end manager for over 10 years at Thrifty Foods. Julie was always there for me and anyone else. Julie was a manager and a friend to me. Julie was always so kind and caring person. I miss her very much. My deepest condolences to her family.
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Karen Ackerman-Waite Julie, you gave me love and a home and hugs in a time I needed it most. I hope you feel my hug still and always, know you are so loved
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Anna Mortley I am so saddened about the loss of such a beautiful and caring person. Julie could always soothe you with her beautiful smile, calm nature and kind voice. She touched so many hearts of those who knew her and even those who did not know her that much and will be greatly missed
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Eileen Saini Julie, you touched so many lives, including mine! Though you’re no longer with us, you remain in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with your husband, son, and entire family.
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Nicole Zalinger Julie was my best friend and my favourite person in the world. I am so sad she is gone but grateful to have had her such an important part of my life. Condolences to Harri, Jared, Merla, her family and all who love her.
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Kathy Bains My deepest condolences to Julie’s Family… Although Julie was so many years younger than me she was like a Mother to me and all her cashiers at Thrifty’s.. she was always so kind and very helpful…she brought out the best in everyone.. always encouraging us to excel. I will miss you Julie but you will be forever in my heart..❤️
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Julie Swain Heartbroken for her family and all who loved her, I will remember her smile, her laugh and her calling me Jules Vern when we worked together at James Bay Thriftys. I will remember how she lived not how she passed. I hope you have found peace, Julie.
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Kaij I’m really going to miss you kid.
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Marina Hasselwander I’m so sad to hear this. I knew Julie at Thriftys Broadmead. I remember her dressing up as a Vulcan from Star Trek at Halloween. That was so cool. Also that she loved the musician Prince. She was such a special lady. She always had a smile on her face. Condolences to her family.
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stuart + adriana wootton You have captured Julie beautifully here; she “lit her way through this world with her beautiful smile, boundless heart and fierce spirit, while speaking her truth with compassion and respect for all she met” is so true of her. She was the warmest and most caring women, who was an incredible listener – She loved you so much Harri and we are so truly sorry for your loss. Thinking of you, Jared and all the lives Julie touched. You are so missed.
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Deanna Castellanos Julie was always the most positive, brightest, and loving person wherever she was. Her whole being radiated with her beliefs and kindness. She was always around to support and listen to anyone who needed to talk. She never judged you and always tried to make the best of the situation. Julie made the world around her a better place. I will miss her deeply.
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Deborah Azouri Julie was one of the loveliest people I knew. My deepest condolences to her family, friends and everyone who has been touched by her grace and kindness. May she rest in peace.
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Brie Cassidy Julie was my first manager ever, at Broadmead. Those were some fantastic days and a fabulous group, led by her leadership. Worked with Julie for many years there. Her smile, optimism, strength, kindness, and hugs, were all contagious. She touched me deeply and I am really going to miss you Julie. My heart is so heavy, but hope you are at peace Julie.
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Lynne Raaflaub Having worked with Julie at James Bay Thrifty Foods I can say she was a pleasure to work with. Fair,supportive, and had a million watt smile. A friend who will be missed.
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Darcey K My condolences go out to family and friends
Her spirit and the memories we each shared with her will continue to live in each one of us
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Kelsie My deepest condolences to Julie’s family. Julie was a very special person to me. She helped me greatly grow in my working career at Thrifty Foods . I will miss her greatly.
Kelsie
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Leslie Wilson It was a pleasure to work with Julie, she was a kind and fair mentor in our workplace….James Bay Thriftys
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Angie Nicholson I am very sad and to hear this news. Julie was a shining light. And helped so many people while working at Broadmead Thrifty Foods, where I knew her. Heaven has gained an angel condolences to her family and friends.
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Siobhan Coates Julie was a great supporter of the Ride2Survive,a 400km bike ride from Kelowna to Delta. I cycled this charity event for 9 years and Julie would donate and send me motivational messages.
Although we never worked together we established a bond through our love of Dolly Bola and when I would visit with Dolly , I always made time for Julie too.
I will miss her smile, her calming voice and sense of humanity. Picturing her dancing on the waves, splashing with the birds. Xox Siobhan
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Siobhan Coates Julie was a great supporter of the Ride2Survive,a 400km bike ride from Kelowna to Delta. I cycled this charity event for 9 years and Julie would donate and send me motivational messages.
Although we never worked together we established a bond through our love of Dolly Bola and when I would visit with Dolly , I always made time for Julie too.
I will miss her smile, her calming voice and sense of humanity. Picturing her dancing on the waves, splashing with the birds. Xox Siobhan
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Val Robinson Words cannot express the depth of my sadness at the loss of this exquisite individual. Julie was the kindest, respectful and most loving friend who encouraged greatness in others. I will miss our long walks along the ocean with deep philosophical conversations and sips of coffee at our destination. My heart goes out to Harri and Jared and all those that were lucky enough to have the honour of spending any amount of time with Julie. ‘Sparkly’ wishes of love to you, Julie. I miss you immensely.
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Pat McGregor Julie was a dear lady, a delightful co-worker. Her passing is sad and she left much too soon. My sincerest condolences to family and friends. RIP Julie.
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Kent DeWolfe I am sad to hear this. Having known Julie for years working at Thrifty Foods. My heart goes out to her family and friends. She was truly a light and will be remembered for how she cared for everyone who was around her.
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Eric Louie I knew Julie during my days at Thrifty Foods Broadmead. Julie always brought true optimism and leadership to the team that I will never forget.
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Greg Muirhead My deepest condolences Harri Jared and family. Julie was such a lovely person. She will be missed by all who knew her. She brought such a large personality to our store, and to whoever meant her in life.
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Jen Kelly We were deeply saddened to hear of beautiful Julie’s passing. She has always been a ray of light and one of the kindest soul’s we’ve known.
We send much love to all the family.
John & Jen Kelly ( Christine’s family)
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Merla Julie was the daughter from another mother…..we were was close as mother and daughter for many decades….we shared many wonderful times and supported each other through tough times…..she will always live in my heart as will her husband and son……Condolences to Harri, Jared, her mother and sisters and brother and nieces and nephews
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Lee Faire I knew Julie at George Bonner Jr Secondary School, Cowichan High School, and at UVic. We didn’t spend a lot of time together, but we were friendly, chatted sometimes, and hung out together with mutual friends. Julie was always approachable and I never knew her to be unkind. She liked to laugh, and I can still hear her wonderful laugh now. She was beautiful inside and out. She was definitely one of the good people. You will be missed and remembered, Julie. XO, Lee.
Harri, I was so sorry to hear of Julie’s passing. She was a beautiful, kind soul and a great neighbour. She always had a smile and a wave for me. My heart breaks for your loss.
Julie, may you be at peace, knowing you are loved and missed.