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Avchen Pinkard Obituary
PINKARD _ Avchen (nee Harivel) passed away suddenly due to complications from a medical issue on July 26, 2007 at St. Paul's Hospital. She was born on June 15, 1974 in Vancouver. Predeceased by her infant daughter Abigail Valerie-Jean. Avchen is survived by her husband, Jeff; her parents, Joan and Colin; her grandma, Hylda Islaub; her brother Atticus, sister-in-law Renai and their children Mitchell, Delaney, and Wyatt; her mother-in-law, Helen Pinkard; four brothers-in-law and 2 sisters-in-law. She will also be missed dearly by many uncles, aunts, cousins, close friends, and especially by her dog, Denver. Avchen grew up in Vancouver, Telkwa, Smithers, Victoria, and Sidney and lived her entire life with passion, integrity, honesty and incredible spirit. One of her most inspiring gifts was her emotional connection to those in her life. She dedicated herself to maintaining strong bonds with both family and friends and her greatest joys involved bringing people together in love and friendship. Avchen embraced her role as Aunty with enthusiasm and dedication. The children in her life brought her much joy and happiness. Avchen's love for travel and compassion for others brought her to many different parts of the world where she immersed herself in the culture and the community. She travelled both independently and with close friends and family to China, Australia, Africa, Japan, and Europe. Through her work at G.F. Strong as a physiotherapist working with adolescents and young adults, she was able to fulfill her dream of impacting those around her in a positive way and empowering others to reach their potential. She showed her true tenacity and strength in everything she set her mind to doing. Avchen loved the outdoors and being involved in both team and individual sports. One of her proudest accomplishments in recent years was conquering her fear of water. Not only did she develop a love for swimming, but she then went on to compete in many triathlons and a half-Iron Man. Avchen believed strongly in giving back to others. She volunteered with numerous causes including: teaching dance at Kidco in Victoria; volunteering as a trainer for the UBC Men's Basketball team while doing her degree; assisting with the WC Race Series; travelling as an International Wheelchair Athletics Classifier; helping at Mama Mercy orphanage in Africa where she sang, danced, and loved the children who lived there; and sponsoring the education of a child in Africa who had touched her heart during her travels. Although there is much sorrow in her passing, Avchen deeply loved her husband Jeff and the life they were building together as a family. All of those touched by her will miss her warm, beautiful smile and will take comfort from knowing that she lived her life fully and passionately. A Memorial Service will be held at Coastal Church at 1160 West Georgia Street in Vancouver, BC on Wednesday August 1, 2007 at 2:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations will be made to Dada's Nest Orphanage in Kenya, Africa. For information on donating please contact: Jeff at [email protected] or Atticus at [email protected]
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49 Entries
Charmaine O'Coffey
August 30, 2007
My heart breaks for the grief felt by Jeff, family and friends of Avchen in her tragic death. I grieve for the loss of Abigail also and the future Avchen & Jeff looked forward to. Avchen showed us what it meant to live life to the fullest, to make every day and every encounter count for those around her. My mom started babysitting Avchen when she was 2, just a baby herself. She has always been part of our life and I will think of her every day for as long as I live. My condolances to Jeff, and the Harivel and Pinkard families as they try to live life without her.
Shauna Holmes
August 29, 2007
I haven't seen Avchen for years now, but when I heard what had happened it made me think back, and remember how amazing of a person she was. I met Avchen when I was very young - Colin (her Dad) dated my Mom. She was 8 years older than me, but I looked up to her even then. Now I hear about all the amazing achievments and work that she has done and it makes me so sad to think that I haven't seen her for so long. She was truly and inspirational person. My deepest sympathy goes out to her family and friends. She will never be forgotten.
shauna
Cinde Gorski
August 26, 2007
My sincere sympathy goes out to Avchen's husband and family. Avchen was my son's physiotherapist when he was in GF Strong. She was a ray of sunshine in some of our dark days. She could get my son to do things that most people couldn't. Both of us always looked forward to visiting her on our trips back to GF Strong. She always had a hug for us; she will be missed.
Quinn Liberatore
August 24, 2007
My sincerest condolences go out to Jeff, Denver and all of Avchen’s family. Avchen was one of those people that really made the world a better place.
Avchen and I became friends about 14 years ago while working at the Harbour Towers as night servers. Over the many years that followed I was lucky enough to have kept in touch with her. It was always great to catch up with her. Although she was an incredible listener, she could also tell the most entertaining stories. She had experienced a lot in her short time here. Throughout all those years the “core” that was Avchen always remained true and never changed.
Avchen was always positive even facing some of the hardest decisions that came her way. She always looked through to the good of the situation.
Avchen always countered harshness with unabashed kindness. This is a lesson that even now I try to emulate from her.
Avchen always realized that you could go nowhere without taking the first step.
Avchen never took shortcuts but rather realized the value of hard work and committing to her goals.
Avchen, thank you for your wisdom, and friendship over the years, we will all miss you greatly.
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Sherry Tucker
August 19, 2007
Avchen I am so lucky to have known you. You touched everyone whose lives you touched.I will always remember your warm heart and beautiful smile.
Sherry
Adrian Hayes
August 14, 2007
Jeff,Joan, Colin and Family, I was shocked to hear of the loss of such a wonderful woman who I had to pleasure of meeting during her short trip to Ireland in 2004. Filled with emence energy and drive for life, she was a great example to us of how to live life. She will be in my memories and prayers for ever.
hAnam di Go brách
Kersti Livingstone
August 14, 2007
Avchen I will always remember the beauty and warmth of your brilliant smile that reflected your loving spirit. You lived life with passion, always making time for your family. My sincere condolences to your husband,Jeff, parents Colin and Joan, and brother Atticus and sister in law Renai and all of your familes at the loss of Avchen and Abigail. With love from the Livingstone and Christie families.
Yolande Fulton
August 11, 2007
Avechan, you helped my son Francis Fulton so very much when he was at GF a few years ago. Thank you so much for that. Yolande Fulton.
John and Marilyn McVicar
August 10, 2007
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Avchen's passing. John went to school with Joan and we reconnected with Joan when our kids were all young. We remember Avchen as a beautiful, gentle little girl. Avchen and Atticus were both younger than our children, but our families socialized for a while before we lost track of each other again. The last time we saw Joan, when she was living in Sidney, she told us how well both Atticus and Avchen were doing.
Our condolences to family and friends in your grief over such an untimely loss.
John and Marilyn McVicar
Joanne Wilson
August 3, 2007
I have very fond memories of Avchen from a few years back. She was full of life and a wonderful person to know. I am so sorry for your loss. My condolences to the family and friends. My thoughts are with you. Joanne Wilson, Sidney,B.C.
Shelley White
August 3, 2007
I didn't know Avchen well. We both lived in Smithers (I was a couple years older) but I ran into her from time to time in Victoria later. She was a lovely, kind person who I always remember with a smile on her face. Her passing is unspeakably sad. My sincerest condolences to her husband and family and friends...
Alexis Chicoine
August 2, 2007
Avchen touched my life...literally. She was a student when I was going through rehab at GF in 2000. I was newly injuried and was very nervous with people manipulating my neck. She was one of only two people that I gave my trust to...to actually place my head in her hands. She recently took a moment away from a client when I stopped in with a question. She never hestitated...I'll never forget her. She impacted my life at a time when everthing else was overwhelming. I am so sorry we have a lost such a great person.
August 2, 2007
my dear Jeff and family.
I saw Avchen a few days before she passed away and before I had to travel up North. I will never forget that beautiful glow that surrounded her as we talked about love and children. She has always inspired me to be a better person and truly showed the world the essence of love and compassion. I am devastated that I couldn't make it to her service yesterday but you, Avchen, Abigail, and the rest of the family were in my thougths and prayers.
Jenn Waterhouse
Lana Burt
August 2, 2007
I was deeply saddened for your loss of Avchen and baby. My God comfort you and your family at this time.
Michael Wilson
August 2, 2007
There are some people who put their heart into everything they do -- that was Avchen. Avchen’s passion, openness, loving nature, drive, kindness, laughter, and profound thoughtfulness will never be forgotten. My condolences to her husband, family and friends. My heart and thoughts are with you.
Sincerely with love,
Mike Wilson
Karla Foster
August 2, 2007
I have the most wonderful memories of Avchen. We worked together at the Port Sidney Marina and fast became close friends. She was beautiful
inside and out and wise beyond her years - a truly unforgetable gem in
this world. My deepest sympathies are with you as you grieve.
Vince and Lalania Schembri
August 2, 2007
Dear Jeff, there are no words that can express how my wife Lalania and I feel at this time. We are very sad at the loss of your beautiful wife Avchen and your beautiful daughter Abigail. I will miss Avchen's wonderful smile and gracious greetings that I always received from her when I saw her. We grieve and pray that the Lord strenghtens you at this most difficult time. Our love goes to you, your family, Avchen's family and all those who are close to the both of you.
Rochelle Todosichuk
August 2, 2007
My heart goes out to Jeff and Avchen's family. Avchen's smile and energy were deeply appreciated during our long rides with the tri club. She will be warmly remembered. She will be missed.
Sarina & Shaun Hartley
August 2, 2007
Our deepest sympathy Jeff. We are friends of Coreena's and heard about your tragic loss. We don't know the words to help you overcome your pain, may God give you and your family the strength to overcome the pain. May the memories held deep in your heart help to soothe you. You are in our prayers, God Bless.
Art Hay
August 2, 2007
Colin & family,
On behalf of DIAND's Economic Development Team in Ottawa, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.
Kristen Lambertson
August 1, 2007
My deepest sympathies go out to Avchen's family. I used to dance with Avchen in Victoria, and much time was spent laughing in between our practices and performances. She was a truly loving and lovely person.
Dagmar Lynch
August 1, 2007
Colin, Atticus and families
We are so saddened to hear of Avchen's passing. Our thoughts are with you.
With love
Dagmar and Alan
Bonnie Elendiuk
August 1, 2007
I was deeply saddened to hear of Avchen and her daughter Abigail's passing. I remember Avchen as a happy beautiful girl who was a friend of my daughter Chelsea's, My heart goes out to her parents and family and to her husband Jeff and his family. May God be with them in their time of need.
Kate Roumieu
August 1, 2007
I am saddened to learn of Avchen's passing. To her family & many dear friends: my deepest, heart-felt sympathies.
I attended school with Avchen in Smithers, and had the pleasure of occasionally running into her, here in Vancouver. I will remember her for her beauty, grace, incredible talents, and charm.
James W Johnson
August 1, 2007
The North Omaha Church of Christ expresses its deepest sympathy to the Pinkard Family. You will continue to be in our prayers.
James W. Johnson Minister
Carl Huggins Assistant Minister
Omaha, Nebraska USA
Janice St. Helene and Brent Anderson
August 1, 2007
We are so incredibly saddened to hear of Avchen's sudden passing and the loss of her daughter. Avchen has had such a wonderful, positive influence on everyone who knew her. Her life has been a blessing. Jeff and family- we wish you strength and comfort during this most difficult time.
Dana Ewert ( Keller)
August 1, 2007
My deepest condolences to Avchen's family and husband. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief.And may your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together.
Greg Parent
August 1, 2007
I’m at a loss for words to express my sadness of this tragic news. My heartfelt and deepest sympathies.
David and Cheryl Koop
August 1, 2007
On behalf of the Coastal Church family please know we are standing with you in prayer during this time. May God grant you the comfort and strength that you need. As Psalm 23:4 says, "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for You are with me."
Michelle Martin
August 1, 2007
My deepest condolences to Jeff and Avchens family. I have had the great privilege of having known Avchen. She was truly a kind soul, beautiful from the inside out. She will be truly missed, her spirit and kindness are timeless.
Ann Tighe
August 1, 2007
My heartfelt sympathies go out to Avechen's husband and family. I remember what a marvellous dancer she was. She went to South Park School with my daughter Tara McMurdo
chelsea holkham
August 1, 2007
I am so sorry to hear of Avchen's passing my deepest sympathies go out to her family and friends.I had not seen avchen in 7 yrs but I thought of her often.We went to South Park elementary together and our graduating class was very close I have alot of great memories from that time that will never forget. Avchen will always be in my heart and in my thoughts.
Sincerly
Chelsea (smart) Holkham
Anita Lopez
August 1, 2007
Colin, Joan, Atticus, Jeff and family, my thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief.
Scott Ogilvie
August 1, 2007
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Avchen. Although I never did have the pleasure of meeting Avchen, we did correspond and speak on numerous occasions on matters related to classification of para-athletes and classification education. She was always professional and genuinely interested and helpful. I could clearly sense she was a committed and passionate person. She will without a doubt be missed by the para-athletics community at all levels. From me personally and on behalf of Athletics Canada, I extend sincere sympathy to Avchen's family.
Tara McMurdo
July 31, 2007
I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Avchen's family and friends. Avchen and I went to South Park elementary school and I have very happy memories of that time. I will always remember her as an intelligent, beautiful, and graceful person who has accomplished many wonderful things. God bless.
Doug & Terry Kooy
July 31, 2007
Words do not work at this time. Our prayer is a simple one, "May God give you grace beyound measure to deal with what has happened. You may not get the answers you need but you will get the peace that only God can give. and it will pass all understnding.
Kurt Eeg
July 31, 2007
I am so sorry for your loss. My heart ached when I heard the tragic news. I went to high school with Avchen. Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Laurie Tinga
July 31, 2007
I am deeply saddened to hear of the untimely passing of Avchen. She was my physiotherapist at G.F. Strong. Due to her patience and persistance I was able to come a long way in my recovery. I am forever thankful. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family in your time of grief.
Priscilla Strickland
July 31, 2007
My toughts are with you Jeff. Your wife and daughter are with Our Father now. May the wings of angels comfort you and see you through this time of sorrow.
Harvey and Su Thompson
July 31, 2007
Jeff, we are struggling to find words to express our sadness at the loss of your beautiful, passionate, tender-hearted wife and your precious daughter...we are praying for you and weep with you.
Kimberly Meadows
July 31, 2007
Colin, Joan, Atticus, Jeff and family....my heart aches for your loss. Avchen will forever be one of my closest and dearest friends. We were with each other for many 'firsts', the most memorable being frantically opening her acceptance letter to UBC together in the car. We hugged and cried and laughed and cheered...it was unforgettable. Our road trip to San Fransisco will also go down in the history books. I loved her deeply and have beautiful memories of her and our last day together, meeting my son. God bless to all of you and your strength as a family.
I love you my sweet beautiful friend, please give billions of kisses to your beautiful baby for me as I know you are together.
Jessica Johnson
July 31, 2007
I would like to send my sympathies to Avchens family. I spent time with her as a child and she was always a caring beautiful person.
Janna Kumi
July 31, 2007
What a tragic loss for your family. My sympathies, as a mother, a colleague of Colin, and a member of the INAC community.
Allan, Patricia & Ashley Yuet
July 31, 2007
Our prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
From another family at Coastal Church,
Joan Wilkinson
July 31, 2007
I was extremely saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Avchen I knew her when she was a child and special friend of my daughter Leah they went to school together and she spent time visiting us in our home and at Brownie camp she was a warm loving and very respectful child. Unfortunately she moved away and my daughter lost touch so we didn't have the pleasure of knowing her as an adult but I am sure she was as loving and as special as she was as a child. May she rest in peace and for those she leaves behind don't ever forget the good times you had in knowing her even for such a short time. my prayers are with you all at this time.
July 31, 2007
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Sincerely, Leanne Rowan (Shannon Johnsen's sister)
July 31, 2007
There are no words to express how sorry Clara and I are to hear the passing of Avchen and your daughter Abigail Valerie-Jean.
Avchen was a beautiful person who touches both our lives and it’s no surprise that she had this effect on others around her; she will be deeply missed in our hearts.
With love,
Derek & Clara
Darlene Anderson
July 31, 2007
My heart goes out to you and your family at this very difficult and sad time. You are in my prayers. A sister-in-Christ from Coastal Church.
Ralph and Valerie Ethier
July 31, 2007
We are very sorry to hear of Avchen's tragic and untimely death. Our thoughts are with you all.
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