1937 — 2021

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Mavis Anderson announces her peaceful passing on February 27 at her home, after a brief illness. Her children were privileged to be with her in her final weeks and at the time of her death.

Mavis will be forever remembered by her sister and best friend Judy (Graeme); her children Olivia, Kathryn (Nicholas), and Jeff (Eri); grandchildren Lindsay, Rachel, Chloe, Anna, Hugh and Oona, three great-grandchildren, and many beloved nieces and nephews.

Mavis was predeceased by her father Charles Howlett, her siblings; Lynn, Gary and Susan, and recently by her mother Douglas Howlett (nee Mallen).

Born in Killam Alberta, Mavis spent her first years on the Coast, but grew up in Galahad Alberta. An excellent student, she took her registered nursing diploma from Royal Alexandra Hospital in 1959 and later went back to school to gain the credentials necessary to become a hospital administrator. After retiring from nursing, she continued to study, obtaining a TOEIC teaching certification which allowed her to teach English in China upon retirement.

Mavis married Ronald Anderson (1959-1978), began a family and, in 1969 resumed her nursing career. Olivia was born prior to the family’s move to the Northwest Territories, after which Kathryn and Jeff were born. In addition to working and raising a family, Mavis enthusiastically participated in the numerous communities in which she lived (Aklavik, Hay River, Yellowknife, Quesnel, and Kamloops) making long time friends in all these places.

Mavis put down deep roots in Kamloops. She nursed briefly at Tranquille Psychiatric Hospital then transferred to Overlander Extended Care Hospital. Here she rose through the ranks retiring as Director of Nursing in 1999. She was respected by all; loved by many, and her compassionate pragmatism was deeply appreciated by residents and their families.

Social and competitive, our mother loved to curl, play golf, Scrabble and bridge. While still in training, she introduced Scrabble to her family: a game which thereafter became a constant in every family gathering. She was a keen bridge player, transitioning to online play during Covid. She adored the sun and spent much time in Mexico with friends and family. After her retirement, she traveled in earnest eventually visiting every continent. Mom enjoyed cruises, Wells Gray trips, especially the Mystery Tours and lived like a local during trips to family living abroad. She was convivial, curious about people and a natural storyteller with a dry sense of humour. Mom had a natural elegance, always looked sharp and was the queen of coordinated colours and accessories.

Mom was an accomplished and innovative homemaker. She crocheted, knitted, undertook challenging needlepoint projects and sewed countless outfits for dolls and the people she loved. Her baking was legendary: she was often called upon to supply air buns and pies for parties and potlucks. She continued to make jams and pickles well into her 80’s. Her family ate well with a minimum of processed food. Delicious lunches were ready every morning, and we were absolutely the first to have beansprouts in our sandwiches!

Mom was a force to be reckoned with, and had an unwavering BS meter. She worked night shift for much of her career which allowed her to work all day at home! By example, mom taught us independence, to honour debts when we couldn’t avoid them, to be kind to the less fortunate, to value honesty, hard work and perseverance. She was a staunch and loyal friend, generous, often to a fault and constantly put others before herself. A hard act to follow.

We would like to acknowledge the many friends Mavis made at work; while playing golf, curling, and bridge; in her book club; as well as through her volunteer activities in support of the symphony, theatre, and literacy. Her family is grateful for this community of friends and their strong network of support, especially evident in this isolating time. Heartfelt thanks also go to Dr Hollman, her physician, colleague and friend; the surgeons at Royal Inland Hospital; and her palliative team’s support and attention despite COVID 19 restrictions.

Flowers are gratefully declined but, if wished, donations can be made in her name to Mustard Seed at giving.theseed.ca. A Zoom celebration of life is planned for April 10, 2021. Request an invitation, if not already invited, by emailing us at maviscelebrationoflife@gmail.com by April 9th.

Condolences may be sent to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com.

• Date : 2021-02-27
• Location : Kamloops