Val lived a full and rewarding life that began in the Village of Riverton, Manitoba, on February 10, 1925. She was the third eldest child of 8 children. Her sister Gladys Peterson is now the last surviving sibling. At the tender age of 13 Val was crowned Miss Icelandic Canada. A true beauty was our mom. She excelled at all things artistic including her beautiful sewing for her children, herself, and for her homes. Her tailored suits were simply classic. The family would often gather around the piano for sing alongs especially at Christmas. Mom was an accomplished pianist and also had a beautiful voice. In later years she loved her choir group and especially as she and Sister Gladys were able to share this passion. Mom would get lost in her paintings. We would leave her sitting at her easel in the morning and find her still there at the end of the day. Her beautiful work now graces the walls of her home. Mom also loved to cook and bake. Coming home to the smell of fresh Icelandic brown bread just out of the oven. Heavenly.....
Once the baby of the family was in school, Mom herself went to University. She put all her energy into completing her education degree and quickly found herself with a Grade 2 class that she loved. Regrettably, another move was in the works and Mom had to give up her very promising teaching career.
Mom was blessed to have spent 69 years with the love of her life, CMDR William (Bill) H.I. Atkinson. It was not always an easy life being a military wife but they did their very best for their children. Mom proclaimed in her declining years that "she and dad never had a fight.” Wink, wink.... Dad pre-deceased mom in July 2015. She missed him terribly. We are thankful they are once again reunited.
Her deep, life-long friendship with Sylvia Kennedy, her buddy since youth, sustained her through many challenges and celebrations.
The family, Pamela, Tommy and Alma, and Lynne and Phil, would like to thank so many people for the amazing care our mom received in these last days. Our very special Cristy has been such a bright light for mom. So many caregivers have touched our lives and we are forever thankful. We would also like to extend our thanks to our family doctor, Dr. Angus McDonald, Dr Philip Lee of UBC Alzheimer's Clinic, and chronic care Nurse Nancy MacDonald for your unending support of our family as we have navigated these last years.
Mom will be remembered by her children, grandchildren and even great and great great grandchildren as the glue that held us together until her passing, at her home, on June 3, 2017 at 7:21 in the evening. We love you so much.
If you wish, donations to the Alzheimer's Society, Canadian Diabetes Association or Manitoba Naval Museum would be lovely.
Celebration of Life for both Bill and Val will be held at the family home July 8, 2017 at 2 PM.
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