OLIVIA V. ANDUTAN

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OLIVIA V. ANDUTAN October 18, 1951 - July 19, 2006 It is with great sadness and broken hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Olivia V. Andutan on July 19, 2006 with Mitch at her side. Olivia fought a courageous seven year battle with cancer. She will leave behind, Mitchell Lavallee, her husband, caregiver, friend and companion; his son Joedy. She also leaves behind her beloved pets Jessie and Big Boy. Olivia is survived by two sisters, Hermina Sali and husband Lewis, Jocelyn and Jose Casanova; four brothers, Julius and Estrellita, Raul and Mei Andutan, Ike Andutan and Rene Leo Andutan, and her father Uldarico Andutan. She was predeceased by her mother Rosita Uldarico. She will also be greatly missed by Mitchell's family, Jack, Rose and Jade Unger; nieces Danielle, John and family; Lana, Allan and family; Florence and Robert Sposito and family; Rick and Shawna Lavallee and family; Barry and Deb and family; and mother and father-in-law Claude and Ella Bisallion. Olivia was often entertained and comforted by frequent visits from her little Chihuahua friend, Bella. Mitch never left her side and Olivia trusted him and counted on him to help her with her struggle with cancer. He took a leave from his employment so that he could devote all his time to Olivia's battle with her illness. He often observed Olivia as she read. The first time Olivia read this poem tears came to her eyes. This poem held a special place in her heart. Footprints in the Sand One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints. Other times there were only one set of footprints. This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow, or defeat I could see only one set of footprints. So I said to the Lord, You promised me, Lord, That if I followed you, you would walk with me always. But I noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there would only be one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most, you have not been there for me? The Lord replied, The times when you have only seen one set of footprints is when I carried you. Olivia, my life will never be the same now that you are gone. I will never love anybody more than I love you and I will never care for anybody more than I have cared for you. Olivia, I miss you. Yours forever, Mitch. Viewing will be on Saturday, July 24, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. with prayers at 8:00 p.m. Viewing will also be held on Sunday from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Bardal Funeral Home, 843 Sherbrook Street, 774-7474.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 22, 2006