Audrey Haroldine Baines (Shortill) (nee Addems)

Audrey passed away peacefully in Victoria, B.C., January 23, 2020. Audrey is remembered as “the hostess with the mostess”, a generous, vibrant woman with a good sense of fun (even though she could never properly tell a joke), a loyal friend, a beloved mother to Susan and Cynthia, and Nana to Mark and Megan Johnston, and Lita Lopez-Shortill.

Born October 26, 1928 in Regina, Saskatchewan, Audrey spent most of her early years living in Vancouver, B.C. before leaving for Toronto to become an Occupational Therapist. It was there she met William Walker (“Shorty”) Shortill, whom she married in December, 1951. She took pride in creating that tax break with the date of their marriage! Our parents relocated to Winnipeg, Manitoba where Audrey assisted Walker in setting up a successful and respected dental practice while also working as an O.T. at Deer Lodge Veterans Hospital.

In her spare time, Mum was a shrewd investor, starting a lady’s investment group with notable success in early Velcro stock, and enjoying being a member of a long-standing book club, listening to CBC radio, and playing Broadway hits, hymns and Rat Pack classics on the piano.  She hosted regular “Friday Nights” for colleagues and friends to socialize, and her annual Christmas carol party with her live piano accompaniment was legendary.  Audrey was also known for the best macaroni and cheese in St. James as well as her turkey dinners.  She raised her daughters to be well educated, independent women, with table manners fit for the Queen, and the ability to host their own turkey dinners.

Audrey and Walker retired to Victoria in 1984, greatly enjoying the beauty of the west coast, and especially the ocean views from their Beach Drive home. Mum never missed the cold, snow, flooding and mosquitoes of Manitoba. After Walker’s death in 1991, Audrey met and married Fred Baines in 1996. They enjoyed some dream vacations together to Italy, Mexico and Alaska, with stops in Calgary, Vancouver, Gimli and Winnipeg to enjoy time with family. Audrey took great pride in the achievements of her children and grandchildren.

Predeceased by her parents Harold and Aleta; brother Allan;  sister-in-law Mary Jane and husbands Walker and Fred. Audrey is survived by daughters Susan and Cynthia; grandchildren Mark, Megan and Lita;  sister-in-law Yvonne; nieces Annabelle, Allison, Nancy and Jane, and nephews Aric and Scott. We loved her dearly, and are thankful she lives on in the hearts of many.

No formal service, by request. Family will gather privately.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com