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Cynthia WIDEL Obituary

On January 3rd, at the age of 88 and a half, our amazing Cindy, Mom, and Grandma departed this world on her own terms, surrounded by the family and friends she loved so much. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer exactly three years ago, Cindy showed the disease that she was still the boss for much longer than she, or we, could ever have imagined. And yet that was so Cindy, always positive, always seizing the day and getting the most out of this life. From her early beginnings in California, to her 53 years on Vancouver Island, she always embodied her motto: "The Meaning Of Life Is The Celebration Of It".
Cindy was many things in both her professional and personal life: teacher/educator, counselor, team leader, advocate, trail blazer, comforter-in-chief, free-spirited adventurer, lover of the ocean, nature, great food and wine, music and arts. But most importantly to her and to all of us who deeply loved her, she was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and cherished friend to so many. With a generous and welcoming heart, she embraced life with such vitality that she inspired those around her to do the same.
Cindy was most happy and fulfilled when in the company of her treasured blended family, extended family and friends. She will be profoundly missed by her daughter Chris Stauffenegger; step son Matt Thompson and daughter-in-law Brenda; step son Dan Thompson; daughter-in-law Deb; step daughter Sandy Vomacka and son-in-law Glen; her 6 grandchildren; Luc and Cole, Sadie, Frankie, Josie and Kayanne and their partners; and 3 great-grandchildren, Amelia, Isla and Chester. As well as by her brother by choice, Bill McIntyre and sister-in-law Susan; and her many dear friends, you know who you are!
So now, this vibrant, beautiful soul, is at peace. Cindy has no doubt been reunited with Pop (husband and best friend, Jim) to continue their adventures, enjoy a glass of wine, have lots more laughs and keep on celebrating eternal life. We have the best of memories to keep you both close in our hearts.
We're so grateful to the awesome Nurses and Doctors at Saanich Peninsula Hospital Palliative Care Unit. You made her last weeks full of comfort, joy and love. Donations can be made to the SPH Foundation/palliative care. www.sphf.ca
A private Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Published by The Times Colonist from Jan. 22 to Jan. 24, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Cynthia WIDEL

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4 Entries

Tracy Young-McLean

January 30, 2023

My deepest condolences and warm thoughts are extended to Chris and her family. Chris, and by extension, Cindy, welcomed me with open arms as a mixed-up kid from Tofino, inviting me into their home without reservation. While we have not been in touch for many years, I think of both of you often, cherishing the memories. Take care.

Jennifer Schreyer

January 23, 2023

Cindy was such an amazing woman, full of life and love and strength. So happy to have known her and cherish the memories of our times together. My sincere condolences to Chris and all of her family and friends.
Fondly, Jenny

Cheryl Lowther

January 23, 2023

In the 1980´s Cindy´s and Chris´s welcoming home on Shelbourne Street was a haven for many of us friends in our twenties. Some of us were struggling, and Cindy´s radar was keenly attuned to these circumstances. We could tell her things we couldn´t tell our parents, and from Cindy there were always kind words and reassurances. Her optimism was contagious- she convinced us that things would work out, and for most of us they did.

Who could forget the legendary hot tub parties with hours of Bruce Springsteen playing in the background? Cindy didn´t merely tolerate our antics, she seemed to delight in them- dancing with the best of us, her brilliant smile lighting up every room.

Thank you Cindy for your open door, your kindness and your generosity of spirit. You showed a merry band of young people how to love life, and I´ll treasure those times always.

My condolences to Chris, and Cindy´s extended family.

Charlotte Curry

January 22, 2023

What a beautiful eulogy for an amazing woman. I am so fortunate to have had the opportunity to meet her. So sorry for your loss.
Charlotte Curry

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Memorial Events
for Cynthia WIDEL

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.