SVATOS; Alma (Crawford)
Passed peacefully on December 17, 2015 at age 97 in Abbotsford Hospital, BC. Born April 19, 1918 in Crewe, Cheshire, England. Her youth was interrupted by WW II, at age 14 went to work at the Clothing Factory, Crewe and the Land Army, Northwich, Cheshire. Alma met her husband "Eddie", a Canadian soldier and married in 1944. Immigrated to Canada as a War Bride in 1946. Settled in the farm community of Bracken, SK for 25 years where five daughters were raised. Passions were gardening (especially flowers), dancing, curling and a volunteer 4-H Leader in sewing. 1971 retired to Dewdney/Mission, BC and continued her joys of life. Also volunteered time with the Mission Hospital Auxiliary and began bowling, painting (a member with Mission Arts Association for 15 years) and traveled to many countries. Predeceased: by husband (Ed in 1971), two sisters (Madge in 2008 and Annie in 2012), son-in-law (Bob Shields in 2014). Lovingly remembered by five daughters: Janet Shields, AB, Mary (Wayne) Laidlaw, SK, Laverne (Jim) Popowich, BC, Irene (Russ) Pearson, BC, Noreen (Larry) Kirk, BC. Ten grandchildren: Lana Shields, Kimberley (Scott) Beairsto, Rob (Jackie) Shields, Greg (Malinda) Pearson, Stacey Kirk (Chris Filleul) of AB; Michelle Laidlaw, Teresa (Mitch) Peterson, Cheryl Laidlaw (Mike Worona) of SK; Sheena (Tyke) Gross, Kristina (Travis) Merrick of BC. Eight great-grandchildren: Robbie Shields, Ryker and Conner Pearson of AB; Hannah and Sarah Peterson, Charlotte Laidlaw of SK; Jack and Rhett Merrick of BC. Also extended families in BC, AB, SK and abroad in England. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Care Facilities since 2003.... Carrington House, The Cedars and Mission Hospital of Mission, BC. Also Menno Place and Abbotsford Hospital of Abbotsford, BC. Private cremation entrusted to Woodlawn Mission Funeral Home, Mission, BC. www.woodlawnfh-mission.com. Any desired Memorial contributions/donations may be made to CNIB-BC Branch or Mission Hospital Auxiliary. Time has come after 97 years... for family and friends far and wide to share the many memories which are truly timeless treasures. A Celebration of Alma's Life is planned at an "English Tea" in Mission, BC in April 2016.