On Sunday, March 7th, 2021, Caroline Klaver (nee Johnson) passed at the age of 62 in the arms of her four loving children and with her devoted partner by her side. She leaves behind a legacy of having the heart of a Lion, being an amazing mother, an avid runner, and a phenomenal friend who was loved for her generosity of spirit, infectious smile, and big laugh.
Caroline left for her spot amongst the stars with her running shoes on and directions to her children to make their beds and do the dishes.
Caroline was preceded in death by her mother Audrey Johnson. She will be greatly missed by her children Giles, Derek, Malcolm, Olivia, granddaughter Rowan and daughter-in-law Jess. She is survived by her life partner Rob Becker, Father Ed Johnson, brother Graham Johnson, his family Nicole, Hannah & Logan, sister Sharon Earthy, her family Bill & Walker, and extended family & friends too numerous to name.
You are Forever in our Hearts Caroline! Happy Running.
Kenny The Cat Klaver requests no flowers.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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Anthony, Michelle, Tyler and Jamie Borthwick
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Marie Janzen So saddened to hear of this news. Caroline and I were friends in high school in Nanaimo although we didn’t keep in touch – except at our class reunions. I have many memories of good times, laughs, teenage angst, and mischievous escapades. My heart goes out to your family and loved ones – may you find peace through this difficult time.
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Gwyn Roman Dearest Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia,
I am so saddened to hear of your Mom’s passing. She was an amazing, women, parent and friend at such a special time in my life. I always looked forward to seeing her when she dropped you off for preschool. Your Mom was a complete joy to talk to and share stories with. She always had time to stop what she was doing and offer ideas, advice and kind words when I was raising my children. I had a Klaver booster seat in my car for years and clothes that she had given me that you had worn. I remember having lunch at your home on Cranley and she showing me your tiny handprint poems on the wall that you had made in preschool. Your paintings and artwork were displayed everywhere. She loved you dearly.
You also were very special to me and I think fondly back to my times with you at Eagle Harbour. I think of you often, never forgetting your cute little faces when you were little. The hugs your little arms gave me are planted in my memory and I only wish that I could give those same hugs back to you at this difficult time. You are in my thoughts and I will always have a special place for all of you and your Mom in my heart.All my love,
Gwyn Roman (nee Miss Jones for some of you)
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Leslie and Bill Pratt To Robert, and Caroline’s whole family,
I was shocked to see the notice of Caroline passing on so suddenly (the isolating nature over the last year of this pandemic has been cruel too). We first met Caroline 10 years ago at our 6 am Fitness Classes in Gleneagles Community Centre, but like many who had to return to family and then work after, she could not stay for coffee with our ‘leader’ (instructor), Rosalinda. I like to think the classes and our camaraderie helped her stay in shape for her love of running, and/or helped her too, when she was injured and could not run. We certainly enjoyed her friendly presence and example. Our thoughts are with all of you, for your too early loss of this wonderful woman.
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Ted and Gaetane Klaver Dear Giles, Derek, Malcolm, Olivia, Extended Family and life partner Rob: our deepest sympathy and sorrow for your loss. CAROLINE was a sister and great friend. She was wonderful Aunt to our family always happy to see us. We had so many wonderful dinners together, camping trips, runs with our daughter Danielle. We always loved our get togethers. Your smile and laughter was infectious and always filled the room. We will miss those gatherings. You will be in our thoughts on our trip across Canada. Rest In Peace and enjoy your runs. Love Ted and Gaetane
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Kathleen Larose Nemec May I extend our deepest condolences to your entire family. Caroline was my daughter Clare’s WVSC coach for a few years. I remember how passionate Caroline was about the game and devoted to the team. Olivia was a sprite and always there to get the ball. Both Clare and i have fond memories of the years the girls played on the same team.Caroline will be missed by all who knew her.
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Patricia Johnston We were very saddened to learn of Caroline’s illness & passing. Our thoughts are with you at this devastating time. Please accept our deepest condolences.
The Vavrik family; John, Trish, Max, & Jack
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Terri I first met Caroline in 1980, when we were both attending Langara College. Caroline would always insist it was Geography class, but it was Psychology. That began a long friendship – our running days when we both lived in the Dunbar area, Eagle Harbour shenanigans with our kids – and most recently some beautiful North Shore hikes.
Caroline was strong, beautiful and positive and a fiercely loving mom! She leaves a lasting legacy for Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia. My heartfelt condolences to the entire family, Rob, and her many friends.
I am so glad to have known and loved Caroline.
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Sue Wick We have all lost such a very special person. I played soccer with CJ on the Marlins for so many years. I have such fond memories of our time together. She was the best team mate you could ask for and always had our backs in defence. Her laugh, smile and huge heart will be with me forever and I am so blessed to have known her.
My thoughts and love to you all.
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Helen Weiser Dear Rob, Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia,
CJ was a very special lady, she will be very much missed. Even though we did not see each other often when we did it was like no time had passed. I am happy to know you were with her as you were her world. Bless her. Love and hugs to you all.
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Annette Parsons To the Klaver children & everyone in Carolines’ family,
I first met your Mom at EH school as we had 2 kids that were in the same grades at that time, and then the most recent time would have been on the Sea View trail as she was running past but always made time to say “Hi”.
As many have already said, I was also one who wondered how she managed to fit in so much to her daily life along with looking after 4 kids.
Our deepest sympathies to you all at this time,
From the Parsons Family.
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Chloe Kopman Our deepest condolence to the family. I live in the condo above Caroline and this has come as a complete shock. Caroline was alway so cheerful with her adorable giggle. She would always pat my dog, Rosie, whenever we met in the building and have a small chat. Caroline will be missed and she was an asset to our condo community. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all.
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Elaine Rough I am so shocked and saddened to hear about the loss of a beautiful friend! You unexpectedly left us, a piece of my heart will be forever broken
You will never be forgotten, I will always remember your infectious smile, your warm hugs, radiant smile, your big heart, your strength and devotion to your family and Rob!
Rest my Angel, be at peace, and let your soul fly free! One day I will join your glorious flight for all eternity!
Thanks for all the memories CJ, I will treasure them forever!
I miss you and love you so much!
Until we meet again my friend, RIP my soul sister
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Mary Taylor I am so sorry to hear of CJ’s passing. CJ and I ran a half marathon together in Vegas a few years ago. Although our running time was lousy we shared a lot of laughs along the way, and this, I will always remember.
Love and peace to the family.
Mary Taylor
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Sandi and Dan Words seem so frail at times like this. Our hearts and prayers go to Giles, Derek, Malcom and Olivia and of course Rob, that you will be comforted during this truly sad time. May the light of God’s presence be a source of consolation and hope in each new day. Life is so precious and death such a thief … may you all have lasting memories of the loving and strong mom/woman CJ was! I know her friends will!
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Shannon Stewart So many of us in Eagle Harbour watched Caroline with no small amount of awe as she juggled the busy schedules of her children with work and friendships. I remember carpools during baseball or soccer season, how she often floated out into the driveway in an apron, always wearing her beautiful signature smile and ready with words of friendship or encouragement for the boys. In spite of her busy life, she was a woman who took the time to listen quietly and thoughtfully. I love how she noticed both the small wonders and the grandeur of her home as she walked the local trails and made sure to find time to admire the sea. Her ability to celebrate the humour and grace in the everyday moments of her neighbours and community was a special gift.
Condolences to her children –Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia– and to her family and partner Rob.
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Emma Shuparski Dear Olivia,
I am so incredibly sorry to here about your mother. It’s been a while since I have seen her or even you but I have really great memory’s of her when we were growing up in Eagle Harbour together. I remember fondly all the time we spent playing at your house by the creek, sneaking strawberries from your moms garden and swinging on the tire swing, and of course the best tuna bagel melts your mom would make us!
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Love Emma
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Shuparski Family The first time I heard of your mom was at Eagle Harbour School, and a comment was “Caroline will get it done, if you give a busy woman a task it always gets done”. Who was this amazing Caroline I wondered? Your mom was an inspiration of hard work, fun, and ready with a laugh or smile. We send our sincere condolences to all you wonderful children whom your mom was so proud of.
Our hearts are sad and heavy with her passing.
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Darlene and Dave Harrison We are so sorry to hear about Caroline’s passing. We have many great memories of times shared in Eagle Harbour, especially birthday parties and polar bear swims. Caroline was a beautiful, bright light and a loyal friend who was always there with support and banana bread when either was needed. She leaves us all with her lasting legacy of love and kindness. Heartfelt sympathy to Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia. Rest in peace dear CJ. The angels have a new friend.
With love xx
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The Binnies Dear Giles, Derek, Malcolm & Little Olivia,
Our sincere condolences to you all.
I will always remember sitting on a cold, wet soccer field listening to your mum shouting instructions to the soccer coach. Meeting another lady with 4 kids who was just as crazy as me was perfect. She was an incredible mother & friend. I will miss her and her infectious laugh. She was a powerhouse and I’m so honored and happy for that cold wet day when we met ! Lots of love always, The Binnies
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Lynne Bespflug I was very sad to hear this news about Caroline. She was a school mom! She was Alexis soccer & baseball coach and she was always happy to lend a hand even though she worked and had 4 children! My condolences to Malcolm and Olivia, Derek and Giles. Keep those memories of your dear mom close to your heart.
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Susan and James Alexander Such sad news. Our thoughts are with the family and her children in this hard time. We have been blessed to have Caroline as part of our extended family through Derek and Jess, and are thankful for the time she had with little Rowan.
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Malcolm Millar I will forever remember your mom as a fierce, strong womans football player, tough on the field and always correcting me because I constantly called her Carolyn. R.I.P. lovely lady and original player in the Greater Vancouver Womans Soccer League.
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Lindy Caroline, your light will live on forever in the four fantastic humans you created. You embodied generosity, compassion and resilience. Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia, I will miss my chats and walks with your mother. And her laugh. She had such a gift for making people feel special. Sending you all much love.
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Louise Bradford Dear Giles, Derek, Malcolm and Olivia,
We are all saddened to hear this news. Living across the street, our families shared road hockey, impromptu baseball games, trampoline times, snacks, laughs, cat fights and life. You were the first family to welcome us to the Cranley neighbourhood. We will never forget Caroline’s generosity of spirit, deep laugh, offbeat sense of humour and warm smile.
Know that we are thinking of you all.
Big hugs, the Bradfords xo
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Paul Sugar I was so sorry to hear about Caroline. In the short time that I knew her it was very clear that what she wanted most was to live and enjoy her family and that she was definitely not ready to go gently into that good night. She made a huge effort in the face of her fear and sadness .But her disease gave her no quarter.My heartfelt condolences go out to her family and to Rob
and to her unbelievably devoted friends
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Audrey and Family Gone too soon CJ. My heart aches for her children and Rob as I know how much they cherished her.
Her infectious laugh could turn anyone’s mood around. CJ spread that laughter around like pixie dust and we were all the better for feeling it’s warmth and love. The group of us known as Lifers, or soccer sisters, will carry on with heavy hearts and will always, always have Caroline in our hearts. Rest In Peace Caroline.
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tammy upward Dearest Klaver children,
We met your beautiful mom years ago at the west vancouver hockey arena, such a lovely person. I also would see her working out at the Gleneagles gym when I was there at 6 in the morning,she had a lot of energy and then home to 4 kids and off to work. She was a dynamo! I hope you will eventually find peace, stay together and remember the love she had for you all.
Thinking of you all…
Warmest Regards,
Tammy, Michael, Adrian and Alexandra Upward
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Andrea Robertson Caroline may have been one of the Wine-der-Woman Half Corked Marathon team members, but she really was a Wonder Woman! Her strength, kindness and dedication to family and friends will always be remembered. I will not forget you, Caroline, and I can still hear your wonderful laughter and see your beautiful smile. My love and condolences to Malcolm, Olivia, Derek, Giles, Rob and family. She will be in your hearts forever.
That shooting star will be Caroline running the next race.
Much love,
Andrea, Brent, Anna and Stewart
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Meryl Welch Begert I grew up with CJ in our old Brechin School neighbourhood and we were friends. Our lives went in different directions for many years and I was thrilled to reconnect with her on a baseball diamond in West Vancouver with our growing families. I didn’t have the opportunity to know her children but I felt like I knew them through our conversations and walks together and it was evident how much she loved you all. When CJ joined our book club, we got to see each other more frequently and I got greater insights into the beautiful, loving women she had become and admired the grace and courage she managed to navigate through any of life’s challenges. It has been a privilege to be a small part of her huge life – she will be missed but will always live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
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Kamal Basra When Caroline walked into a room she filled it with glowing light. Her infectious smile and heart of gold will be truly missed. My deepest condolences to her family.
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Sharon Dear Giles, Derek, Malcom, Olivia and Rob.
My heart is broken and so sad for all of you. Your Mom was a force – you are so lucky to have had such a fierce voice for all of you. I took SO many cues from her. She has given you so many great tools to navigate your day to day lives, your relationships, your choices. I took so may cues from her. And, she was such a wonderful, loyal friend. A great girlfriend to have to laugh with at the messiness of life. Wow will me miss that laugh. We all feel the unfairness and loss of such a wonderful person – too soon, way too soon. But she packed a lot of living into those 62 years. You will hear so many good stories unfold. Sending you all so much love and hugs.
Sharon Duguid
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Coleen A Davis-Stanton Dear Giles, Derek, Malcom and Olivia, My heart goes out to you all with the passing of your beautiful, strong, vital Mom. My first acquaintance with your Mom was at a soccer pitch coaching Nicole along with Mark. So many good times, so many laughs, so many moments standing in the cold watching the girls play. Your Mom had a huge influence on people she encountered (young and old)giving them her time and presence. A beautiful gift and one in which she will be remembered by. The four of you were the light of her life. Let her light remain in your hearts. Wishing you much strength, courage and love in these days. xx
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Caroline & Mike We are so sad about the passing of our friend Caroline. Our hearts go out to Rob, her kids and all her family and dear friends. We bonded with Caroline at cold rinks and over hot lunch prep. She was the fiercest and most loving Mama Bear ever. We shared a passion for our local trails; it was just tough keeping up with her. I found a friend who loved watching figure skating and critiquing costumes as much as I do. Rest in Peace my Battle of the Blades buddy. Mike and I will miss you.
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Sabine Howe I offer my deepest condolences to Caroline’s beloved children, Rob, and the rest of her amazing family. Caroline ( CJ), you will be in our hearts forever… never to be forgotten. So many memories and so many moments shared. You are truly one of a kind. Eagle Harbor will never be the same without you… but we will toast you every time we are in your special place. Love you forever dear friend.❤️
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Trish Hunt A bright light that burned out all too soon. So grateful that Caroline was able to be with her family. Family was central/core to Caroline’s being–meant so much to her.
She had commented of late: “Beautiful and peaceful on the farm–I am one lucky gal” (thank you Kenna).
So blessed to have a long friendship with Caroline and her children. She demonstrated such positivity, courage, inspiration and graciousness. A dear friend, she was a big part of our lives. So grateful to have have known her–we shared many wonderful times and will cherish the memories.Our hearts go out to the family – Partner Rob, Sister Sharon and Family, Brother Graham and Family, Dear Children – Giles, Derek–Jess, Malcolm, Olivia and Grandchild Rowan.
Love and celestial hugs to our Dancing Queen, RIP CJ/Caroline, we love you.
Trish, Steve, Brendan and Evan
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Bronwyn Dimond Caroline left this earth way before her time she still had a great deal of living to do, she had a great love for life .My heart goes out to you Sharon who has spent the last few years taking care of your dad & now you have lost your much loved sister. love to you all Bronwyn
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The Schultze Family Correction…..We send heartfelt condolences and wishes of peace and comfort to Caroline’s family, especially her children. She is in our thoughts, as are all of you, at this difficult and devastating time. Your mother was an amazing woman. She loved you all dearly and was so proud of each of you.
Tina, Chris, Karl,Kenny, and Christopher Schultze, Eagle Harbour,WV
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The Schultze Family We send heartfelt condolences and wishes of peace and comfort to Caroline’s family, especially her four sons. She is in our thoughts, as are all of you, at this difficult and devastating time. Your mother was an amazing woman. She loved you all dearly and was so proud of each of you.
Tina, Chris, Karl,Kenny, and Christopher Schultze, Eagle Harbour,WV
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Jane Webb I’m so sorry to hear this very sad news. I played soccer with CJ for ten years and absolutely loved being her team mate. She always had a big smile, unless of course she was battling off an opponent!
She always spoke so highly of her kids – it was so apparent how much she loved you all.
Rest in peace CJ… and keep on running!
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Gale Penner My heart aches while I think of the far too early passing of our soccer sister CJ. I will cherish many special memories us soccer sisters shared together. You will always hold a special place in my heart as I will miss your sweet smile and great laugh. CJ, you’ll be greatly missed by your family, your special musical partner Rob and many friends. Rest In Peace CJ!
Hugs, Gale
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Cathy Denroche Browne So very sad for the Eagle Harbour community which Caroline (CJ) was soooo very much a part of. Her infectious laugh and wonderful sense of humour is something I truly believe she imparted to each one of her beautiful kids. Caroline- you wont be forgotten in this neighbourhood! To the Klaver family- you know that you have us all to carry you through this heartbreak. We are all your family ! Whatever you need, just shout!!!! Xox. Huge huge hugs to you all and to Rob too!
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Mark Stanton Caroline was one of the kindest, and most positive people I ever met. We coached soccer together for many seasons and we always had great fun. Her enthusiasm was contagious.
She raised four great kids and was always there for them, no matter what.
I will cherish our friendship and she will be missed by all.
My deepest condolences to all the family.
Rest In Peace Caroline.
Love and hugs to all.
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Glynda Fitzgerald I was so shocked and saddened to hear of Caroline’s passing.
Caroline was one of the kindest, sweetest, most generous, but also, one of the funniest women I know.We lived next door to one another on Cranley Drive for many years and with Olivia & Annie and Glyn & Malcolm running wild between the 2 houses.
There was basically all day revolving doors, until I’d hear Caroline yell across the yard for them to get home for dinner. Any time I was in Caroline’s house, she’d be in her baking apron, having just whipped up muffins or cookies.
I remember when Annie & Olivia both got lice and Caroline now thought she had it and she came over with a crappy little comb. I said get in here! and pulled her in the bathroom and pulled out my fancy lice comb. We sat in the bathroom laughing, talking about the kids and all their shenanigans while i combed her hair through. Caroline had a great and devilish sense of humour and I loved it. One day, I came home and there was a card with a picture of Ryan Gosling on the front that was stuck to my door. It said, “I came by, but you weren’t home. Maybe next time, Love Ryan”. She really knew how to make me laugh. Caroline was a kind and loving and selfless mom, who always put her kids first, above anything. Caroline will always be remembered in my heart as wonderful and amazing woman. She will be missed dearly,
My love goes out to Giles, Derek, Malcolm & Olivia
Glynda Fitzgerald
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Brad Ney I was very saddened to hear about Carolyn‘s sudden passing, it was only like yesterday that I had seen her and Rob in Nanaimo! Time sure goes by quickly but you won’t be forgotten Caroline, my deepest condolences too all her family and love ones,she certainly had a way of brightening the room up,sincerely Brad Ney.
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Denise & Dan Caroline has been a great friend since our McCann Erickson days and long time member of ‘the Gourmet Girls’. We are going to miss her terribly and my heart goes out to her kids and Rob. She always put her kids first, no matter what, and was a terrific mom and friend. Words cannot express our sadness.
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Nicola Ney I will always remember Caroline’s beautiful energy and that loving smile. Growing up in the same neighbourhood and schools, Caroline was a gifted role model.
My heart goes out to her Family, may it bring you the Greatest relief to know that Caroline is at Peace.
Heart Felt Love to all.
My deepest condolences to the family. I was so shocked to hear this news. Caroline and I coached soccer together. She was so selfless to pick up a girls team with me that needed a coach. She was so kind and always with a smile no matter how busy she was. Our heart felt love to the family