It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gail Lillian Cruickshank on January 8, 2020, at the age of 77. She will be remembered by her family and many friends for her strength, independence, generosity, quick wit, and wonderful sense of humour. Above all, she will be remembered for being an amazing mother.
The youngest of five, Mom was born in Edmonton, AB, on November 14, 1942. She grew up in Casino, just outside of Trail, BC, where she worked alongside her brother and three sisters on the family farm. She attended the one room school there until grade 6, when the family moved into Trail. As a teen, Mom loved music, dancing, and everything Elvis. She met Dad at a dance and they married on May 8, 1961. Mom and Dad moved to Rossland in 1967 where they raised two daughters. They relocated to Salmo in 1995.
Mom had many interests. She loved to read, write poetry, and was known for her homemade bread and buns. She was passionate about animals and was never without cats and dogs in her home. She also fed the wild birds, rescued feral and abandoned cats with her sister, Denise, and gave generously to animal charities.
Mom is survived by her daughters Corrie (Rick) and Leanne (Shane), her three sisters Denise, Margaret and Ruth and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, Bill, in 2001 and her parents Frances and Denis Boyle. Sadly, Mom's oldest sibling, her brother Lee, died just six days after her passing.
At Mom's request, there will be no service. Eric Toneff of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with arrangements.
As an expression of sympathy, please consider a donation to the BCSPCA in her memory.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence at the family's online register at www.myalternatives.ca
Alternatives Funeral & Cremation Services