Lillian Elizabeth Collins

Lillian Elizabeth Collins Dec 15, 1938 - Mar 5, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Lillian Elizabeth Collins (nee Pearson) on Mar 5, 2024, at the Nanaimo Senior’s Village in Nanaimo, BC.

Lillian was predeceased by her loving husband, Michael (2019), and her brother, Ken Pearson. Lillian is survived by her four children, Greg (Charmaine), Janice, David, and Stephen, as well as her beloved nephew, Kevin Pearson. She also leaves behind 8 grandchildren: Michael, Kevin (Elizabeth), Madeline (Jameson), Hannah, Christian, Devin, Ted, Peter, and one great grandchild Bennett, with one more coming soon.

Lillian was born in Edmonton, AB, to Bruce and Mary Pearson.  Lillian grew up loving her piano music and spending many summers at the tight knit Scandinavian community of Vasa Park at Pigeon Lake. Lillian always spoke of her and Ken’s amazing adventures at Vasa Park as kids and young adults. Over the years, Lillian continued to keep in contact with many of her friends at the Vasa Lodge as it was a dear part of her life.  Lillian graduated from high school and then went to work in the administration office at Edmonton Motors. It was there that she met the love of her life, Michael. They married and settled in the west end of Edmonton where they raised their four children. Michael and Lillian built a cottage at Pigeon Lake, where many cherished memories with their family and friends were made.

Lillian’s passion for the lake, and all that went with lake life to include boating, water skiing, gardening, time with family and friends, late night piano sing-a-longs, was truly evident. She was also an avid curler and made many lifelong friends at the Crestwood Curling Club. Lillian was also passionate about her volunteer work for many years on the Misericordia Hospital Board, as well as countless volunteer hours with the Edmonton Ski Club where her kids actively participated.

In the early 1990s, Lillian and Michael moved out to Schooner Cove in Nanoose Bay, BC, on Vancouver Island, to truly enjoy the beautiful west coast in their retirement years. Sailing and power boating, exploring the island, and enjoying visits from their friends and family was such a big part of Lillian’s life.

Lillian’s passion for animals, especially dogs, was evident throughout her life. She would speak at length about the family’s past pets as well as always asking for news of her children’s and grandchildren’s dogs and cats. In her last few months, while at the Nanaimo Senior's Village, Lillian would excitedly describe the dogs that regularly visited and “ made her day”.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Nanaimo Seniors Village who were so welcoming to Lillian when she moved there in July, 2023. It became her new home and she quickly made friends to share stories, dine with and play cards with. She enjoyed her time there and spoke often of how lovely a place it was to live.

Lillian will be deeply missed, but forever remembered by those who were touched by her steadfast guidance, kindness and grace throughout her 85 years.

There will be a celebration of life with Lillian’s family at a later date to be determined. If desired, donations can be made to the charity of choice.