March 21, 1943 - September 10, 2024
In loving memory ~
Divina passed away peacefully at 81 years of age at Jubilee Manor, Nelson BC. Her family wishes to thank all the staff at Jubilee for the friendship and wonderful care they gave mom while she resided there.
Divina was born and raised in Trail, BC. Her parents were Richard and Meley VanLondersele. She had one brother Gerard (Sonny) VanLondersele who predeceased her in 2018. She married Allan Sawatsky in 1967. They resided in Salmo and there raised their two children, Jody and Wanda. Mom lived in Salmo until her move to Nelson Jubilee Manor last March. She was a devoted mother and grandmother but the apple of her eye in her later years was Riko, her beloved Shih Tzu.
Divina worked as a Deputy Clerk of the Village of Salmo and was a dedicated employee for 28 years. She was a formidable Scrabble player, enjoyed crosswords, working in her yard, walking her dog and was involved in various community groups over the years. After her stroke, she spent hours colouring beautiful pictures while watching her favourite TV programs.
Mom had many challenges throughout her life, but her great sense of humor and inner strength carried her through. This was true when she suffered a major stroke in 2016 that left her paralyzed on her right side and confined to a wheelchair, and it was also true when she had another stroke in August. She was smiling, laughing and trying to sing even as life was waning for her. These years will be remembered for the abundance of love, laughter and family time. She bore her hardships with grace.
She leaves to mourn her: son, Jody Sawatsky (Heather Carson), daughter, Wanda MacNeill (Grant), grandchildren, Claire Alaric (Devin), Nolan MacNeill (Morgan Brady), Christian Sawatsky, Paige Carson and Jared Carson.
There will be an open house at Divina's home in Salmo from 11:00 am - 3:00 pm on October 19, 2024. We welcome friends and family to come by and share some memories of mom.
For more information and to leave a message of condolence, please see the Thompson Funeral Service website at https://www.thompsonfs.ca
Service Details
11:00 AM