Tribute

Marilyn Diane Lewis February 7, 1944 – April 16, 2018 Powell River, BC It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of Marilyn Diane Lewis (née MacLeod). With her devoted husband and loving family at her side, Marilyn’s courageous battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) ended on Monday the 16th of April 2018. Marilyn was born in Powell River on the seventh day of February, 1944, and is survived by her husband of 53 years Thomas William (Tom) Lewis; sons Kent (Jen) of Powell River and Dean (Jenn) of Nanaimo, along with daughter Shawnali Rollins (Dean) of Duncan and nine grandchildren Blake, Bo, Joel, Anna, Ashley, Erika, Tyson, Tommy and Taylor; sister Karen Edwards (John) of Surrey and niece Tracey Burshtynski (David) of Maple Ridge and nephew Chad Edwards (Debbie) of Langley, including many extended family and friends both locally and abroad. She was predeceased by her parents Gordon MacLeod and Eleanor “Nellie” MacLeod (Hartley) of Powell River. Marilyn spent her early years residing in Wildwood and Townsite prior to moving to North Vancouver in 1952 when her father was transferred with the Powell River Company. Marilyn resided on Keith Road and attended Ridgeway School and Sutherland Junior High, where she acquired some lifelong friends. She returned back to Powell River in 1963 and soon after met the love of her life in 1964. Tom adored Marilyn and the pair married on May 29, 1965, in North Vancouver after trying, unsuccessfully, to elope. Marilyn spent a number of years employed with the school district as a teacher’s aide and later enjoyed working at Pagani & Sons Shoes. Marilyn’s obvious passion was her kids and she unselfishly spent numerous hours volunteering on executives with minor hockey and baseball, coaching girls softball, supporting Job’s Daughters, organizing billets for the Powell River Paper Kings Hockey Club and championing for the Kids’ Christmas Cheer Fund. Marilyn loved spending time with her kids and very much enjoyed their circle of great friends. She belonged to a special group of ladies as part of the “Sewing Club” and they stayed close meeting monthly for over 50 years. Marilyn deeply cherished her nine grandchildren and followed them lovingly to many hockey arenas, sports fields, dance recitals, swimming pools and concert performances. She was at her best while spending time at the family cabin on the lake with her loved ones playing cards and listening to music. Our profound sadness is eased by the well wishes and condolences of many supportive friends and family. The family would like to express its sincere gratitude to Doctor Brad Schweitzer and the entire medical team at Powell River General Hospital, the ALS Society, Carole McCormick and the crew at Rexall Pharmacy for their kind ways. A special thank-you also to the “girls from club” and Lucia Martnig for their special visits and blessings during Mom’s final days. We couldn’t be any prouder of Dad’s love and exceptional care for Mom, along with the constant support of her daughter-in-law Jen, as this allowed for Mom to stay active in her home during this past year. A celebration of life is planned for May 5, at 1 pm at the United Church located at 6932 Crofton Street. As per Mom’s request, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to BC Children’s Hospital at bcchf.ca/marilynlewis.