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Cynthia FARVOLDEN
Cynthia FARVOLDEN
Obituary
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Cynthia FARVOLDEN Obituary
June 5, 1946 - October 14, 2012
Dr. Cynthia Farvolden (nee Anaka) passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, October 14, 2012 in the arms of her adoring and loving family.
Cynthia was born at Canora, Saskatchewan on June 5, 1946. She attended grade school in Creighton, Saskatchewan. Cynthia's family moved to Edmonton, Alberta in 1959 and Cynthia attended Strathern Junior High School and Bonnie Doon High School where she received several awards for Academic Excellence and Achievement.
Cynthia entered the University of Alberta in 1964 and graduated as a Medical Doctor in 1970 at the age of 23. Cynthia then married Anderson (Andy) Farvolden of Edmonton, Alberta and moved to Calgary, Alberta to "Intern" at the Foothills Hospital. After two years of further training as a Resident at the Foothills, Cynthia opened a Practice of Family Medicine and remained in that Practice until December 2005 when she retired to spend more time with her family or on the golf course or ski hill.
Cynthia is survived by her husband Andy and their children, Dr. Davis Graham Farvolden (Margo) of Towson, Maryland, Stephanie Gwen Tomblin (William) of Parker, Colorado, Alyson Jane Balfour (Liam) of Calgary, Alberta. Cynthia is also survived by five wonderful grandchildren of whom she was extremely proud, Guinevere Helena Tomblin of Parker, Colorado, Sullivan Graham Farvolden of Towson, Maryland, Dynalea Anastasia Tomblin of Parker, Colorado, Waverly Jane Balfour of Calgary, Alberta, Adelaide Jane Farvolden of Towson, Maryland. Cynthia is further survived by her mother, Margaret Anaka, her older brother Laddie Glen Anaka (Lois), both of Edmonton, Alberta, her younger brother Harvey Michael Anaka (Margaret) of Burstall, Saskatchewan, her younger sister Susan Damgaard of Stony Plain, Alberta, her sister- in-law Susan Hallett (Rick) of Kamloops, British Columbia, her uncle Owen Peever of Regina, Saskatchewan, together with cousins, nieces and nephews.
Cynthia was predeceased by her dad, Harry Anaka, and her younger brother, Ray Anaka, both of Edmonton, Alberta.
The Farvolden Family wishes to offer their heartfelt thank you and appreciation to Dr. Richard Cote, his staff, and assistant Roxanne Mitchell at the Cochrane Primary Care Center and Dr. Eric Smith, Dr. Genell Nadeau, the staff at Foothills Unit 111 and Karyn Fischer at the University of Calgary Neuro Science Cognitive Clinic for all their efforts on behalf of Cynthia.
The Farvolden Family respectfully request that no flowers or food or other items be sent to the Family, but would be honored if those wishing to do so make a donation to the Salvation Army as the Salvation Army was Cynthia's "special" charitable organization.
At Cynthia's request, there will not be a Funeral. The Farvolden Family invites Friends of Cynthia to an "Open House" at the Calgary Ranchmen's Club (710 - 13 Avenue S.W., Calgary, Alberta. Phone 403-228-3885) from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 20, 2012. Please join our Family to visit and recall memories of Cynthia. A brief formal program will be conducted at 3:00 p.m.
Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In living memory of Dr. Cynthia Farvolden, a tree will be planted at Big Hill Springs Park, Cochrane.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
51 Entries
Dynalea Tomblin
November 29, 2018
I loved my grandma very much I just wish I could now her longer
- Her granddaughter Dynalea
Nora Copithorn
April 6, 2016
We were just talking about Cynthia over the weekend. She was the most amazing lady, always happy and upbeat. She loved her family so much , she talked about her children with the greatest affection. She is missed and loved.
christine crossley
April 4, 2016
very late in signing this,however, Dr. Farvolden assisted in the birth of my children, always went the extra mile for me... I remember her coming into the Grace hospital with wet hair and always being kind and yet firm... which a new mom needed, as mine had since passed... I think of her often.... the one thing that makes me smile, now that every place you go is fragrance free..... she used to come into her office and wearing Georgio, and hence I became a fan... never will I forget her kindness and amazing care
Larry White
September 2, 2014
Andy and Family,
I just today read of Cyndy's passing. Our friendship goes back many years when we both worked part-time at The Bay in downtown Edmonton. We also attended the same Young People's group.
We had lots of fun, as you can imagine.
Can you picture Cindy riding on the back of my Scooter, going home from work downtown to the Bonnie Doon area where we both lived. She was dressed in a skirt, riding side saddle, in a cool? / cold night that Edmn was known for.
A lovely person both insideand out! Our prayers are with you and your family.
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Dr. Pravleen Budihal and Staff at Sesame Dental
April 25, 2014
We are all so sorry and sad to hear of Cynthia's passing on. She leaves a large void behind. We all enjoyed her company and we will miss her beautiful smile. She was a true inspiration for us and we have a lot to strive for keeping Cynthia in our minds and hearts. Thank you Andy for sharing her stories with us. Our prayers are with the family.
January 31, 2013
Jan.31/13
Dear Farvoldens
Today I learned of Cynthias passing.We were out of town visiting our Daughter in Texas ..our oldest whom Cynthia delivered at the Grace. I remember her running into the delivery room in a fur coat and hat..She said "Great timing ,we were at kensington and 14th Str. when my beeper went off..I told my husband to hang a left and that if all goes well Ill be there for the second period ... she was .
Cynthia was Gift to everyone who's lives she touched.
She was our Doctor ... she was our friend.
Cynthia you will be missed ...
Nora ,Bob,Alexis & Eastlyn Copithorn
Stacie M Wolfer
November 20, 2012
I was very sad to learn of Cynthia's struggles and her passing. I was lucky enough to be one of her patients for over 30 years...sharing many of life's experiences with her. I trusted her and always felt her sincerity and passion for her involvement in my life & my health. I'll always remember the "clacking" of her heels around the office, the entertaining "banter" with Janet and her firecracker personality. My thoughts & prayers go out to her family - thank you for sharing her with me.
Donna White
October 29, 2012
Dear Family of Dr. Farvolden,
It was so very sad to learn the news of this wonderful human being, woman and doctor's passing. She was my doctor from childhood into adulthood and carried on seeing me as a patient when I lived in Northern Alberta and was not able to find a doctor where I was living. Nothing escaped her notice and she always found the best way to say the hardest things. She was the very finest doctor and I was priviledged to be one of her patients.
Sherr Wadson
October 25, 2012
Dear Harv & Marg,
I was sad to read of your sister's passing; may God extend an extra measure of strength as you grieve this great loss.
Sherr Wadson (U of A, V Wing)
October 25, 2012
Andy, Davis, Stephanie, Alyson and Families:
A few short words cannot begin to express my sadness upon hearing of Cynthia's passing nor can it convey the heartache I feel for all of you. Cynthia was my Doctor, my neighbor and someone I considered a friend and we shared many of life's ups and downs during my visits to her office over almost 30 years. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Sherry Wallace and Family
October 25, 2012
If anyone has read these wonderful accounts of Cynthia's contacts with people, you've surely notice the recurring theme - her infectious and somewhat addictive laugh! Cynthia had been a longtime client of ours, always making new friends and running into old ones. She always went out of her way to make everyone around her feel special and we will miss her greatly. Our heartfelt wishes go out to her family, who she was always so proud of and talked about all the time!
The Girls at Victoire Esthetics
Ryan Boyd
October 24, 2012
Mr. Farvolden, Steph, Davis and Aly
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your wonderful mom. Everyone has those special parents of your friends when you are little who always made you feel so welcome and special. Your mom and dad were that for me. I loved the time I spent at your house. Your family were always so close and laughter was a constant sound throughout your house. I have no doubts my mom will be waiting for your mom with open arms and they will share more than a couple of laughs together. Like the time the ref'd a father and sons hockey game together!!! Lean on your friends and family and always share the great stories about your mom to everyone who knew her. They will appreciate those stories more and more each year. Once again, I am truly so sorry. Ryan Boyd and the whole Boyd Family.
Cathy Dennis
October 23, 2012
On behalf of the Dennis/Deegan families our deepest condolences to you Andy, your children, and grandchildren. Cynthia's spirit lives in each of your hearts, mind and souls. Cynthia was our family doctor for 30 years and delivered one of my two children. I will forever cherish the fond memories I have of Cynthia. To name few, her infectious laughter could be heard wherever she was, always smiling, sweet talking woman and was beautiful both inside and out. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
October 22, 2012
I felt compelled to extend my deepest sympathy for the loss of a wonderful woman. Cynthia was an amazing Doctor but more important to me, she was an amazing role model for me as a professional and more importantly as a Mom. She gave strong advice and courage to be a good Mom, and she shared her pride of her family and often sprinkled in stories of what she did as a Mom. She was missed by me and my 2 kids when she retired. She was truly an original and the whole package...beautiful, ultra stylish, tough, sweet, smart, witty, athletic, competitive...loving wife and mother...absolute role model...a woman I truly looked up to; she seemed like the big sister I never had. So genuinely sorry for your loss
Brenda Bjornson Kayleigh and Jordan Szott
friend and pharmacist
George Doherty
October 22, 2012
Dear Andy,
I have been out of town on George's Cream business and was shocked and saddened to hear of Cynthia's passing. She and I had such great times golfing at each others golf courses. I will never forget the hole in one at the Star's tournament. A wonderful doctor and friend. My prayers and thoughts are with you. George
October 22, 2012
We were sad to hear of Cynthia's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family during this difficult time.
Betty & Carl Powell Calgary
(Mrs. Britto's daughter and Son-in Law)
Judy & Len McCord
October 22, 2012
Andy and Family, We were so sad to hear of Cynthia's passing and I personally have many fond memories of golfing with her, she was one of the best putters around. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to all of you, she may be gone but never forgotten. Take care! Judy, Len, Dean and Reid McCord
October 20, 2012
I am so sorry, Andy. I didn't know Cynthia but have thoiught of you over the years. All my best wishes.
Pat Maier (Hunt)
October 20, 2012
Andy we were so sorry to hear about Cynthia. Our deepest sympathy.
Roy & Jan Beavers
Denise Dubyk, Ken Jones, Tamara, Dylon & Joshua Ray
October 20, 2012
Dr. Cynthia Farvolden - the best. Tears come quickly as we remember. She cared for our family for many years through joy, trials, tragedy and healing. We will remember the bright smile, sparkling eyes and the way she would curl into the chair as she listened. Dr. Cynthia will always be a light in our lives.
Denise Dubyk
October 20, 2012
Cynthia Farvolden - the best. Tears come quick as I remember. She was with us through many trials, tragedies and healing in our lives -delivered my grandsons and cared for our family for many years. Her sparkling eyes and warm, welcoming smile will be remembered. Cynthia will always be a light in our lives.
Ken Sauer
October 19, 2012
Andy and Family
It is with a great deal of sadness and deepest sympathy that I offer you my personal condolences on the passing of a wife, mother and grandmother. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you in the days and weeks ahead.
October 19, 2012
I am extremely saddened to hear of Dr. Farvolden's passing. My heart and thoughts go out to her family. She was my Dr. for 25 years and delivered 3 of my 4 children. I missed her very much as my Dr., but I was being selfish as she needed to be with her family. We did see her once after retiring, on the golf course as it should have been. I will never forget her we are so lucky to have the memories.
Maureen
Val G
October 19, 2012
With Deepest Sympathy To Dr.Farvolden's Family
Dr. Farvolden was my family doctor for many years and was very disappointed when she retired. I told her she was too young to retire as we were the same age me. Our last conversation was,we might see each other at the golf course in Montana. She will be missed by so many.
Val G
Terry Tresoor
October 19, 2012
Sincere condolences Andy.
Lori
October 19, 2012
I had the privilege of being a patient of Dr. Farvolden's for 10 years. I have missed her caring and enthusiastic guidance as a doctor since. I was lucky enough to have both of my children delivered by her and could not imagine having another doctor in the delivering room. My sincerest condolences go out to her family. She will truly be missed.
October 19, 2012
We were saddened to hear about the loss of your Mother, Davis. We pray that as the days move forward that you and your family will find peace in the memories you shared with her individually and together as a family.
Cheri (Cormack), Chad, Ethan, Emilie, and Nicholas Badry
Ian Nairn
October 19, 2012
I was saddened to hear of your loss Andy, although many years have passed since we last connected. Be well my friend and take comfort in your family.
October 18, 2012
Our condolences to Andy and family. Cynthia was a friend and much appreciated family doctor for many years.
Dawne & Bob Thornborough
October 18, 2012
My doctor as a young child, nothing but fond memories
October 18, 2012
Andy and family,
I'm so saddened by your loss. I can't begin to imagine how hard it is for you. What a woman! What a mother, grandmother and wife! What a doctor! I too was blessed to be her patient and she was a dental hygiene patient of mine for many years also. I want to share a few fond memories of her.
One was the day after my son was born. I knew she was coming down the hall because I could hear her high heeled shoes clipping along in only a cadence that Cynthia had. After she left our room I looked over at the young new mom in the bed beside me. Her eyes were bug eyed! "That was your doctor?" she asked. She couldn't believe the vibrant, beautiful, obviously athletic, joyful woman was my doctor.
Not only was I a patient for 20 years but I was also one of her last patients the month she retired. I received a call from her office to come in and see her. I wondered if I was getting new test results as I was facing surgery to remove a tumor and determine if I had cancer. When I got there I was surprised that she had asked me in just to know how I was doing. She just wanted to know "where my head was". She knew my dad was fighting cancer and was in the hospital at the time. She was worried about my stress level. Wow! Find another doctor who will do that! I was fortunate to bump into her occasionally after she retired. She always reminded me that she was there for me if I had any questions about anything medical - anytime Just call.
You can feel the love expressed by other patients in this guest book. Those office walls were pretty thin and you could hear her laugh with other patients in examining rooms, visit with them at the front desk, and take phone calls from the kids (don't worry we couldn't hear the conversation). But, you knew when she got into your room you too would share life and a laugh. I don't think I'll ever forget her laugh.
Forever grateful for her and truly saddened by your loss..........Belinda Perrin
Brendan & Karly Black
October 18, 2012
I have fond memories of Dr. Farvolden; very generous, loads of energy, and a powerful laugh that she seemed to use all the time. Please accept our sincere condolences.
October 18, 2012
Whoa, I am certainly upset to hear of Cynthia's passing. :-( Not unlike the rest of the posts on here, Dr. Farvolden was my docter for many, many years. I recall sitting in her examing rooms and looking at her many certificates on the wall and wondering "She doesn't look that freaking old?" so I had to ask her what her regime was. She laughed that brilliant laugh of hers that lit up her whole bronzed face and retorically asked me if I was still smoking.LOL. She was as honest as the day is long. :-)
I used to get ticked off at her waiting times though and I expressed it to her one day and in typical Dr. Farvolden style she made everything better by apologizing for the wait but that I needed to understand she had just delivered the most terrible news to the patient before me. That will always stick with mr when I get frustrated and impatient. The patient before me had 4 months to live. :-(
This lady. Wow! The world was a better place with her in it. Man, that girl was always so full of life and I always complimented her on her vibrancy and optimism and how she kept herself so youthful looking. Truly is sad. I remember the day I found out she was retiring and we shared a hug and I was tearful (Kara was 3 1/2) She was certainly an example of how we should all model our lives.
Dr. Cynthia Farvolden..Your legacy lives on in your beautiful family and in thousands of pictures with our little blessings that you brought into this world.
You were missed when you retired and with your passing, you are sorely missed, but you can look down from above and smile for the 'difference' you made as a doctor in so many lives.
Sincerely and respectfully
Tracy Osborne (Patient # 7816?) ;-)
xo
Theresa Reti
October 18, 2012
I am so sad to hear of Cynthia's passing. I was a patient of her's since 1983 up until her retirement, she delivered my daughter, Roxanne, and was her doctor as well. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Sherri Raymond
October 17, 2012
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Cynthia. She was my doctor for 25 years and was there for the birth of both of my children. I will always remember her as wonderful and compassionate doctor who would give you the time you needed no matter how busy her waiting room was. She was a proud mother and loving wife who always took time to take a call from her children and her husband. I always admired that she put her family first. She was excited to become a grandmother and I am so happy that she was able to take on that role. I want you to know that she touched so many lives and I am truly grateful for the help she gave me over the years. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Jill C.
October 17, 2012
I was saddened to learn of Cynthia's passing. I was one of her patients from the age of 12 until she retired. She was a wonderful, compassionate person and an excellent doctor. She always knew how to put her patients at ease and also share a laugh or two. Please accept my deepest condolences.
Marlene Wright
October 17, 2012
To all the Farvolden family, I was saddened to read of Dr. Farvolden's passing - she was a wonderful doctor to my Mother, my daughter and myself (39 years I think). I have really missed her over the past 7 years, I never could find anyone who could take her place. I too shed tears when she told me she was retiring, she gave me a hug, and that was the last time I saw her. Im sure you, the family have many cherished memories. God bless you. Marlene Wright, daughter Kristi Wright and my Mom, Helen Lazaruk.
Janet Eisler
October 17, 2012
So sad to hear the passing of Cynthia. She was my doctor for 30 years and though she missed delivering my children because of their births occurring on long weekends. She was there the next day to see them and continue their care as they grew into adolescents. I would like to express my condolences to the Farvolden family. I lost my mom to lung cancer 9 years ago on September 30th and think of her every day. I know this next year will be hard but hope that you remember your Mom with fondness. She was not only my Doctor but my friend and adviser to myself and my children. On behalf of my children Kristen and Kyle and myself my prayers are with your family - Jan Eisler
Joanne MacDonald
October 17, 2012
I am shocked and devastated to hear of Cynthia's passing. Cynthia was my Dr. from the age of 16 until she retired and that of my daughter's as well. She was an exceptional Dr. who was so professional, loving and thorough. When my daughter was mysteriously cranky and not growing at 6 weeks old - she did not wait and see. Her intervention lead to the quick diagnosis and treatment of my daughters cancer and ultimately to her survival as it was caught early enough for her to fight the terrible disease.
I worked for her and her lovely family as a Nanny for a few years and loved the time spent with them. I often saw Cynthia still running through the park in Varsity as I was walking my dog and she always stopped to catch up and share wonderful stories of her children and grandchildren. Her spirit and joie de vivre will truly be missed ......
May the wonderful memories of a life lived and loved to the fullest bring you peace and comfort to you and yours.
Grace and Peace;
Joanne
Davilyn Stinson
October 17, 2012
I'm devastated to learn of Cynthia's passing. I had the pleasure of being her patient from the age 12 until she retired. She was there for me through my teen years, marriage, pregnancies, deliveries, the raising of my family and everything else in between. There wasn't a thing I couldn't ask or tell her, she was so much more than a doctor to me. Cynthia was kind and compassionate, beautiful inside and out and had a smile and laugh that lit up a room. I will never forget her. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.
October 17, 2012
So sorry to hear about Cynthia,our thoughts are with you all. she was a favorite cousin.Lots of fond memories that we will cherish. Love from Glenys, Curly ,Karyn, Frank, Brad,and Greg
October 17, 2012
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. Cynthia was mine and my daughters doctor for years up until her retirement! I always appreciated her forthrightness and her sense of humour. The last time I ran into her she was on the golf course at Silver Springs. I knew it was her from her laugh!
She will be missed.
Florin Wolfer
October 17, 2012
So shocked to hear of Cynthia's passing. She was my doctor for 30 years and so kindly took on my senior mother that was in her 80's. Cynthia was smart, slim beautiful, a great doc and so nice. Florin Wolfer
Roberta Gray
October 17, 2012
Please accept my deep condolences on Cynthia's passing. She was my doctor from the time I arrived in Calgary at age 19 to her retirement, she delivered all 3 of my children and my first grandchild. She was so much more than a Doctor, she was kind and compassionate. She will be deeply missed.
October 17, 2012
It's devastating to hear that Cynthia has passed. She was the doctor that delivered me and was my doctor for 15 years before she retired. I even had the pleasure of working for her, cleaning her office for a couple years. She was an amazing woman and I will never forget her. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family.
October 17, 2012
Dear Andy and family,
Heather informed me today of Cynthia's passing. We were so sorry to hear this news. She will be missed here at Wildwood. Our condolences go out to you, Andy, and your family. If there is anything we can do please let us know.
Donna
Bill Gray
October 17, 2012
The Gray family are so sad to hear of Dr. Farvolden's passing. She delivered my daughter Desiree amd also delivered Desiree's daughter Sidney. She called Desiree "her hockey baby" because she had to leave a Flames game to deliver her
October 17, 2012
Dear Andy and Family, We are so sorry to hear the news. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this sad time. WIth deepest sympathy, Audrey and BJ Shackleton
October 17, 2012
So devastated to hear the sad news. Cynthia was my doctor from the time I was 15,until she retired. She was always there for me throughout my pregnancies, deliveries, and raising of my young family, until they were the same age as I was when I first saw her. I cried the day she had to tell me she was retiring, but celebrated that she was finally going to have all the time to do all the fun things she loved! She truly was a wonderful, caring, bubbly, remarkable woman!
Please accept our sincere condolences,
Shirley, Luc, Alex and Stephen Brousseau!
Audrey Vance
October 17, 2012
Andy: I was so sad to read of Cynthia's passing. From the many years I worked with you, I remember her as being such a wonderful lady. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Audrey Vance (Duxbury)
October 17, 2012
Dear Andy and family,
So sad to hear of Cynthia's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dee and Rick Hebert
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