Aileen Harvey

Aileen Harvey passed away peacefully, surrounded by family on February 6th, 2023, at 84 years old. She is lovingly remembered by her children James Wilson (Karna), Jillian Milks, and Dawn Wilson. Her grandchildren, Stephen Heinpalu (Andrea), and Courtney Paulin (Quinn). Her great grandchildren Gaege, Talon, and Danica. Along with her extended family Sharon Bennett, Paul Taylor, Kirk Taylor, Chris Taylor, Scott Harrison (Denise), Rae Harrison, and Harry Heinpalu, and her dear friends Marilyn and Marguerite.

Aileen is predeceased by her husband Terrance Harvey, her sister Catherine Taylor and son in law David Milks.

Born September 5th, 1938, in Edinburgh, Scotland Aileen grew up surrounded by an amazing, supportive family. As a young adult, she met Tom Wilson, fell in love, and married and soon after welcomed their three children. Tom and Aileen had a dream to immigrate to Canada, Tom worked hard toward their dream, saving and supporting their young family. Aileen worked at The Coca Cola Factory, and the combination of their strict money saving routine, they were able to emigrate. Tom left Scotland for Canada first, 2 months prior to the rest of his family, while Aileen held down the fort in Scotland. Finally, in 1967, Aileen and the kids were able to join Tom in Calgary to begin their new life adventure.

Aileen began working for The City of Calgary, soon after she emigrated, starting as a file clerk, she began taking night classes and moved up to City Sign Inspector.

Sadly, Tom and Aileen grew apart but remained very close for the remainder of her life, it was a very treasured relationship filled with mutual respect and love.

Aileen met Terry at work, they got along well and laughed a lot, Aileen thought he was kind and handsome and they fell in love and were married November 12, 1983.

Aileen and Terry enjoyed golfing, travelling, the Calgary Stampede, playing the VLTs and Bingo. But most of all, they loved their family.

Aileen and Terry often hosted family dinners, especially around the holiday season. Christmas Dinner was the main event of the year, a HUGE spread of food, music, and laughter which would lead us downstairs where all the men could be found lying on the floor, in a food coma!

They both loved animals, during their time together Aileen and Terry had Mitzi, Candy and Chico. Aileen also adopted her dog Lucy, caring for her up until the day she passed.

Sadly, in September of 2014, Terry passed away. Tragedy stuck very quickly after with Aileen being diagnosed with colon cancer and underwent a major surgery to remove the cancer AND WON! That was the depth and determination of this incredible woman.

After beating cancer and grieving her late husband, she decided she wanted to take her children to Mexico. They all had an incredible time together, building so many lasting memories. Unfortunately, it was just prior to this wonderful vacation that Aileen very suddenly lost her younger sister Catherine. Aileen ensured that she was remembered with a beach side mini remembrance ceremony.

Aileen was a very proud woman, she loved harder than anyone. She was the true embodiment of a Matriarch. She was non-judgmental and kind, however, she called a spade a spade and had very strong convictions: there was no fooling her! She was strong and generous beyond words, unapologetically herself, a very good listener and ZERO tolerance for nonsense. She loved her family fiercely and she was the most amazing role model. Her great grandchildren gave her a new sense of love, and she poured her love and knowledge into them.

Over recent years Aileen’s niece Sharon regularly visited her from England, and they grew close again. Sharon loved Aileen and holds that precious relationship they had close and values their time together and will miss and keep her in her heart forever.

Up until the very end, she had her wits with her. She knew everyone who was there and quick to offer witty responses, she even brought birthday money for her great grandson Gaege to the hospital and insisted she got it from her wallet for him.

Some of the family’s fondest memories are:

Having tea and her toast with ginger jam.

Trips to Mexico together.

Dinner at the Carriage House.

Monday dates.

Disneyland and West Edmonton Mall

Going for drives to Banff.

Having Split Pea and Ham Soup after putting up the Christmas lights.

The hole she has leaves in everyone’s heart is profound, navigating life without her, will not be easy, but we will carry and cherish your memories forever.

Celebration of life will be held September 9th, 2023, if there are any questions pertaining to this, please contact Jim Wilson by email at [email protected]