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Gladys Kempthorne Obituary
Gladys Carolle Kempthorne passed away on January 2nd, 2026, at the Irene Thomas Hospice in Ladner, BC. Born to loving parents, Bill and Anne Lesyk, in Slawa, Alberta, Gladys was raised alongside her siblings, Olga, Walter, Patricia, and Suzanne. Gladys had an innate skill and immense passion for caring for others.
Gladys was a graduate of the St Joseph's College of Nursing, Vegreville, Alberta, 1959. She spent her early career in Banff Hospital and in Vancouver (St. Paul's). Living in Vancouver, she met the love of her life, Art Kempthorne. The couple married in 1964, and shortly after son Bill's birth, relocated to Liverpool, UK. Returning to Canada, their second child, Maryann, was born while they made their home in Ottawa. Returning to British Columbia, they would settle in the town of Ladner, where they built a home, raised their kids, and forged a community of adored friends and neighbours.
Gladys and Art traveled the world together, but were always called home to BC. In addition to her work as an Occupational Health Nurse, Gladys worked to create a clear vision for a rich homelife that she cared for very deeply. In retirement, she kept up her talents and efforts for homemaking and design; each place she lived was a place where many would feel welcome. She delighted in tending her garden and reading, especially Scandinavian mystery novels. She endlessly appreciated the natural world around her, particularly birdwatching.
Gladys was kind, adventurous, witty, and fiercely loyal to her loved ones. Her enormous spirit touched many around her. Gladys leaves to mourn her devoted daughter, Maryann Kempthorne; her two grandchildren, Eleanor and Alec; and her treasured elder sister, Olga.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Arthur (Art) Kempthorne, and her son, William (Bill) Kempthorne. Gladys' memory will also be preserved in the hearts of Bill's partner, Tracy, and her grandson, Nate.
Gladys will be dearly missed and eternally remembered by her extended family members, friends, neighbours, and colleagues - all those who her life, love, and joy touched around the globe.
The family would like to thank and acknowledge Fraser Health for the care provided, especially the outstanding care of the team from Home Support Services.
Her funeral service will take place on January 10th, 11:30am, at Delta Funeral Home. Internment Boundary Bay Cemetery. Reception to follow.
Gladys was a graduate of the St Joseph's College of Nursing, Vegreville, Alberta, 1959. She spent her early career in Banff Hospital and in Vancouver (St. Paul's). Living in Vancouver, she met the love of her life, Art Kempthorne. The couple married in 1964, and shortly after son Bill's birth, relocated to Liverpool, UK. Returning to Canada, their second child, Maryann, was born while they made their home in Ottawa. Returning to British Columbia, they would settle in the town of Ladner, where they built a home, raised their kids, and forged a community of adored friends and neighbours.
Gladys and Art traveled the world together, but were always called home to BC. In addition to her work as an Occupational Health Nurse, Gladys worked to create a clear vision for a rich homelife that she cared for very deeply. In retirement, she kept up her talents and efforts for homemaking and design; each place she lived was a place where many would feel welcome. She delighted in tending her garden and reading, especially Scandinavian mystery novels. She endlessly appreciated the natural world around her, particularly birdwatching.
Gladys was kind, adventurous, witty, and fiercely loyal to her loved ones. Her enormous spirit touched many around her. Gladys leaves to mourn her devoted daughter, Maryann Kempthorne; her two grandchildren, Eleanor and Alec; and her treasured elder sister, Olga.
Preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years, Arthur (Art) Kempthorne, and her son, William (Bill) Kempthorne. Gladys' memory will also be preserved in the hearts of Bill's partner, Tracy, and her grandson, Nate.
Gladys will be dearly missed and eternally remembered by her extended family members, friends, neighbours, and colleagues - all those who her life, love, and joy touched around the globe.
The family would like to thank and acknowledge Fraser Health for the care provided, especially the outstanding care of the team from Home Support Services.
Her funeral service will take place on January 10th, 11:30am, at Delta Funeral Home. Internment Boundary Bay Cemetery. Reception to follow.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Published by Delta Optimist from Jan. 8 to Feb. 7, 2026.
Memories and Condolences
for Gladys Kempthorne
1 Entry
Jitka Holt
January 13, 2026
My daughter has a treasure box. A gorgeous princess dress, perfectly and thoughtfully made, has been neatly folded there for years now, being almost worn through, and so much loved. Nora, Gladys' Granddaughter, had passed the dress down, having this treasure made for her by Gladys, with talent, flair, and so much love. Through this dress, we'll always cherish Gladys and the generosity and kindness that Nora brought to us, too.
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