It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Audrey on July 22, 2024, at Saanich Peninsula Hospital. Audrey was born on January 31, 1923, in Toronto, Ontario.
Audrey was predeceased by her husband Ralph and eldest son David. Survived by Steven (Jane) Paul (Marion) and John (Michelle).
Our Mom had a long and eventful life spanning over 100 years. As a hospital volunteer during the war, she met a young wounded soldier named Ralph. They both loved playing bridge and after making a 7 no-trump bid together their future seemed preordained. Always outgoing and social, Audrey and Ralph moved from Toronto to Ottawa as their family grew to raise four sons. Our mother worked various jobs in her life but her dream job came after she spearheaded a drive to get a Library in our community and ultimately became the head librarian, which she spent the rest of her working career enjoying. Upon retirement our parents decided to join their kids out west and moved to Brentwood Bay. During their retirement they were very active with bridge, traveling the world and church making long lasting friends wherever they went.
In the last few years Audrey was very active within her community at Legion Manor volunteering as the Librarian, participating in the many activities and of course building friendships along the way. Audrey will be remembered by her family and friends as a feisty and an independent spirit. She will be missed.
A private interment and small service to be held in August.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Lynda Zollen
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Elizabeth Stanlake My mother-in-law Pat Stanlake was good friends with Audrey through bridge and St Mary’s Church. They were both very keen bridge players and played with a regular foursome that met weekly and at the Bowling Club at Centennial Park in Central Saanich. On occasion I was asked to substitute when one of their foursome couldn’t make it. The first time, I was a bit nervous – I was an occasional bridge player, Audrey and Pat in comparison were professionals. Audrey was my partner and she was so patient with me. My nervousness eased and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. It was a delightful afternoon spending time with Pat who was over 100 years old and Audrey who was approaching 100. They were both so with it.
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Van Buchanan Sincere condolences. I met Audrey & Ralph through the NDP and we spent many happy times talking politics and working in election campaigns. I haven’t seen Audrey for a long time as my age has left me visually impaired and without transportation. But for some unknown reason I have been thinking about her very often lately. And reminding myself that I should try to find out where she was living and give her a call. I’m very sorry that I didn’t and now it’s too late. Audrey made the world a better place. She will be missed.
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Karen Furnes My mom, Penny Furnes, was also a very active, outgoing and independent woman. She was active in the NDP, and often mentioned Audrey’s name, as they attended many of the same events in Sidney and Central Saanich. They both loved playing bridge, and I believe they played bridge together at the Lawn Bowls Club at Centennial Park for a time. Mom was very impressed by Audrey’s energy, intelligence and passion, especially as Audrey was five years older. Mom died the day before Audrey, at the age of 96.
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Starla Anderson This past April as an executive member, I was phoning Saanich Gulf-Islands federal NDP members without email addresses to inform them of our upcoming Nomination meeting. Audrey Quackenbush was one of these members and when I explained what the call was about, she replied, ” I’m sorry dear but I’m now over 100 years of age and live in a seniors home so I don’t believe that I can make it to the meeting.” I responded, ” My goodness – you’re doing well. To what do you attribute your longevity?” Without missing a beat, Audrey chuckled, ” My longevity is due to belonging to the NDP.” I never met Audrey Quackenbush but I sure wish I had – she will be missed by all who knew her and loved her, family and friends. She was an inspiration to me during that conversation three months before she died at the age of 101. Starla Anderson
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Mark van der Putten Although, I didn’t see her much, whenever I did come-over (no-mather who with) I was always welcomed in their home in Brentwood. And have fond memories of the wedding-aneversery in the ’80. In the beginning of the ’90 she had put me to use with her many friends to do all kind of jobs, while I had some “spare” time. She was nice and was always willing to help you out. She will be missed.
My aunt. I will miss our phone talks. I am so glad I got to go to Brentwood Bay to stay a week with you. That was 13 years ago. Uncle Ralph passed a couple of years later. There is no one left older than me. Hope you will be there when it’s my turn ❤️