Ms. Brooke Eliza Storey

Our beloved Brooke Eliza Storey (“The Brookalizer” to her friends), 40, passed away peacefully on February 2, 2015 with her devoted husband at her side and Hawaiian music recalling their wedding playing in the background.

Born September 30, 1974 in North Vancouver, BC, Brooke was a beautiful force to be reckoned with. Despite a long battle with a profound disease and the myriad challenges that came with it, Brooke refused to be defined by her illness—only by her desire to live. She attended Chartwell Elementary School and Sentinel Secondary School in West Vancouver. She went on to the University of Western Ontario (UWO) to earn a Bachelor of Arts in Classics and English Literature, a second BA in Art History at the University of British Columbia, and a Master of Library and Information Science at UWO. Brooke was incredibly proud of all she accomplished in her education and progressive professional roles, including at Library and Archives Canada in Ottawa where she “won the lottery” in meeting partner Steve Maiczan. At the West Vancouver Memorial Library she connected with valued colleagues and offered “storytime” to pint-sized new readers. Known for her 100-watt smile, Brooke was a librarian, foodie, world traveller (the Arctic, Europe, Mexico, Hawaii), justice-seeker, dog lover, immaculate dresser, total fashionista, and dearly loved daughter, wife, and friend. Known for her hilarious sense of humour, quick wit, and tenacity to follow her bliss, she pushed herself to learn and share, to value every moment and take nothing for granted.

Brooke is survived by best friend and loving husband Steve, parents Ron and Helen Storey, brother Ryan (partner JoAnne), rambunctious nephews Erik and Hugh, mother-in-law Elizabeth Maiczan, “fur-babies” Missy and Mady-Belle, extended family, and a close circle of friends.

Brooke continues to serve as inspiration. She understood just how precious life is—that ultimately whom you love and who loves you is all that matters. It was a lesson she shared with those closest to her. Brooke’s legacy is one of love: she taught us to live with meaning, to pursue our dreams, to work hard without complaint or excuse (even in the face of enormous challenge), and to focus on what counts. She was resilient and committed to doing things her way, despite all odds. “I tried as hard as I could.” It goes without saying.

Her husband and family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to all of the doctors and healthcare professionals who provided Brooke with outstanding care over the years.

A celebration of Brooke’s life will be held at the Pinnacle Hotel at the Pier, 138 Victory Ship Way, North Vancouver, BC, on February 14, 2015 at 1:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Cystic Fibrosis Canada, #301-3185 Willingdon Green, Burnaby, BC V5G 4P3. Let’s tackle this chronic disease that takes so much.