AUDREY DOREEN HARDEN

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AUDREY DOREEN HARDEN June 4, 1925 - January 2, 2011 Audrey passed away peacefully, in her sleep at the Oak Bay Kiwanis Pavilion, Victoria BC, on January 2, 2011. Predeceased by husband Bill in 1984, son Bud (Faye) in 1996 and sister Edith in 2007 Survived by siblings: Ruby, Al, and Wally; sons: Paul (Judy), Russ, (Sandra) and Dave; grandchildren: Paul, Mike (Anessa), Chris (Suzanne), Angie (Kevin), Kristin (Owen), Regan (Matt), Rich, Kyle, Julie, Emily and Kelly, and great-grandchildren: Riley, Darius, Samantha, Garrick and Caidyn. Audrey was born in Winnipeg, where she married and raised her family, relocating later in life to the West Coast. A cheerful and sociable woman, Audrey was happiest surrounded by her family and friends, the gang as she liked to call them. She was a talented, resourceful and determined woman, led an active life raising her four boys, volunteered for countless organizations, worked for many years, while eventually achieving superstar status in the eyes of her grand-children. As a young athlete and avid sports enthusiast, she played tennis, basketball, softball and later curled for many years. Bill and Audrey enjoyed music and loved to dance. She was an active and enthusiastic supporter of her family's activities, be that football, baseball, hockey, swimming or music. Whether beginners or at the professional level, she took as much pride in their efforts as their accomplishments. The family spent many summers at the cottage on Lake Winnipeg at Matlock, where endless games were to be played on the lawn, tree houses were built, sandbars were explored, guests entertained and fun in general was to be had. When the rain or mosquitoes came, Audrey was quick to bring out the Rumoli or Monopoly boards. She was also a talented seamstress and homemaker, regularly whipping up costumes or redecorating her house with gusto. An excellent cook, her favourite recipes have been passed down the generations. When time permitted, she enjoyed reading, and also had a way with words and a talent for writing. Audrey and Bill maintained lifelong friendships with the Card Club , a group who partied and laughed heartily, played bridge, and maintained close ties for more than half a century. Audrey was truly the glue of her family--always offering love and support. She remained resilient, cheerful, active and optimistic in spite of the painful losses she experienced in her life. Her smile, her chuckle, her singing, her quirks, and the twinkle in her eyes will all be remembered with much love. She will be missed. Special thanks to the folks at Oak Bay Kiwanis Pavilion, as well to her friend Gail, who cared wonderfully for Audrey in her final years. Flowers respectfully declined. Donations in lieu to Kiwanis Pavilion Foundation , in memory of Audrey Harden, 3034 Cedar Hill Road, Victoria BC, V8T 3J3; or to Alzheimer's Association of Canada in her memory. Memorial Service: Wednesday, January 19, 2:00 p.m., Church of the Advent, 510 Mount View Ave., Victoria. Celebration of Life to be held in Winnipeg this summer, notice will be provided.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 15, 2011