Lillian Campbell–Mom slipped away quietly, as was her way, not wanting to cause difficulty or fanfare. She chose her time and left us to go to a more peaceful place. Her family was close by, as their care giving and vigil had continued for many weeks. She was never without family by her side and we are forever grateful that Mom was able to finish her life in the home she so dearly loved, as was her wish. She stayed with us and fought valiantly for many weeks, only to realize it was time to let others among us lead the way. We are forever grateful for our large extended family that cared for her and allowed her to be at home until the end.
Mom was born August 20, 1922 in Quesnel to John A. and Lillian Fraser. She was very proud of her Cariboo roots and never strayed far from her hometown throughout her life. She was schooled here, married Bill and raised her family. She worked as a banker at the same time as she juggled a busy life at home with her eight children. Mom’s life changed markedly when Dad died suddenly in 1976, leaving her a single parent with three boys still at home. Again, Mom carried on without complaint or self-pity. After retiring, she began to enjoy some freedom as her family was grown and leading their own lives, many still near her in Quesnel. She shared many wonderful outings with her pals Marge, Marion, Gloria, Lynn and Leone–swimming, coffeeing, casinoing. She ventured with her pals to Hawaii, which she loved and took a cruise with Marilyn and Ed. She visited Victoria, where she had lived briefly as a child, and still held fond memories. Shopping in Prince George was even an adventure, as Mom was so easily pleased with the smallest of outings.
She is survived by her eight children. Maureen (Rob) Cameron of Kelowna; Marilyn (Ed) Hall of Victoria; Beverlee (Joe) Cardle of Victoria; Bryan; Heather (Dick) Collins; Barry (Byrle); Ron (Heather); Ross (Brenda) all of Quesnel. She has 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren in Quesnel and Kelowna, as well as many nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her brother Jack (Velma) Fraser of Aldergrove.
The family would like to thank Dr. Judy Dercksen, the pharmacy staff of Shopper’s Drug Mart, Home Support workers, Home Care nurses and all friends and neighbours for their care and support during this time.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Lillian’s memory to a local charity of your choice.
Mom is our guardian angel now. She gave her all to her family and we can only hope to live by her example. She will watch over us all and make sure we are “behaving ourselves”.
We love you, Mom