GWENDOLYN ANNE HAMLIN (SORFLATEN)

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GWENDOLYN ANNE HAMLIN (nee SORFLATEN) It is with great sadness that the family announces that Gwen Hamlin passed away on July 22, 2003 at Evergreen Hospice in Kirkland, WA. Gwen Hamlin was born September 5, 1942 to George and Astrid Sorflaten (nee Sutherland) in Winnipeg, MB. She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved twin sister Gail Kolach, Winnipeg and brother-in-law Andy Kolach; her brother Allan Sorflaten, Truro, NS and sister-in-law Lydia Sorflaten; and nieces and nephews, Lynne and Robert Kolach, Louisa and Jason Sorflaten. Uncle Einar is a special person who Gwen phoned regularly, even from Hospice. Gwen is also survived by aunts, Jessie Sutherland, and Florence Sutherland and their families; cousin Lorne Ericson and Arlene and family. Gwen graduated from Viscount Alexander High School, Fort Garry and the University of Manitoba (B.A.) and later received Medical Record Librarian Accreditation from Grey Nuns Hospital in Regina. While working in Huntington, West Virginia, she married the late Charles R. Hamlin, M.D. Since 2000, when Gwen was diagnosed with cancer, she faced huge and ongoing challenges. In the end, it was her wish that she leave with us, the peace that she herself found during her final weeks. Gwen believed in the power of her spirit. She searched deeply to enhance her understanding and connectedness with that power in her spiritual growth. The grace that Gwen allowed to move through her has been felt by each of us. She valued those things that are important in life. She expressed unconditional love for family and friends, loved nature, and held great respect for all living creatures. Gwen was a very special person and will be dearly missed. We release Gwen to be transformed and grow eternally. A memorial service to celebrate Gwens life was held at Evergreen Hospice in Kirkland, WA on July 27. Reflecting Gwens love of animals, donations may be made to sponsoring a Seeing-Eye Dog in Gwens honour. A special puppy will be chosen, named, and trained to become a Guide Dog for a blind person. Donations may be mailed to: Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind, 4120 Rideau Valley Drive North, Box 280, Manotick, ON K4M 1A3.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 16, 2003