October 12, 1948 – July 2, 2011
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, auntie and best friend Colene who passed peacefully with her family by her side.
Colene will forever be remembered by her husband of 41 years, Rod, her son Rod Jr., her daughter Ronda (Finlay) and her grandson Justin. She is survived by her mother Dorothy Kryski, sisters Kathy (John), Maureen (Randy), Lorraine (Joe) and brothers Ron, Leonard and Murray (Lisa). Colene was a wonderful role model to her nieces and nephews Chris, Geoff, Kevin, Adam, Amanda, Alison, Miranda, Vanessa, Jessica, Darren, Karly, Jake and Max. She will be remembered by her many aunts, uncles and cousins. Colene was predeceased by her father Frank Kryski.
Born in Cranbrook, Colene grew up in Trail, graduating from J. Lloyd Crowe Secondary School and continuing her education at the University of British Columbia. For 40 years, Colene was dedicated to primary teaching, spending the majority of her career at Fruitvale Elementary, Laura J. Morrish and Glenmerry Elementary schools. Colene was a kind and patient teacher who taught from her heart. She was a much loved and respected teacher by both her colleagues and students. Even after retirement, she never stopped teaching. She faced her battle with an unwavering sense of hope, courage and strength. A lesson for us all.
Whether it was watching her grandson's ballgames, attending a niece’s or nephew’s piano concert, or just Saturday afternoon shopping with her mother, Colene loved spending her time with family. She enjoyed watching figure skating, curling and the Canucks hockey games.
A gentle and giving soul who always put the needs of others before herself.
A celebration of Colene's life will be held on a later date. Al Grywacheski with Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Colene's loving memory to the BC Cancer Foundation at 600 - 686 W. Broadway, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 1G1 or online at www.bccancerfoundation.com
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family’s online Memorial Register at:
www.myalternatives.ca
Always a smile, instead of a frown,
Always a hand, when one was down,
Always true, thoughtful and kind,
Wonderful memories she left behind.
A celebration of Colene’s life will be held Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 2:30pm at Our Lady of Perpetual Help overflow. The family invites you to join them in sharing memories and celebrating the life of a wonderful daughter, mother, grandmother, sister, friend and teacher.