Gwendolyn Elsie JOHNSON

JOHNSON, Gwendolyn Elsie (nee Mott)
1927 - 2023

Gwen passed away peacefully on March 21 at the age of 95. She was a beloved matriarch to a large family. Gwen was predeceased by her husband Bill (2006) and granddaughter Kathryn (2020). She is survived by her six children; Jon (Leanna), Mark (Rae), Eric (Flavia), Carl (Sherry), Barbara (Don), Janice (George), nine grandchildren; Will (Kristina), Barbara, Caroline (Geoffrey), Johanna (Giuseppe), Kiera (Thomas) Ashley (Brian), Cody, Amanda (Matt), Tyler, and six great-grandchildren.

Gwen was born in Vancouver on August 8th. She attended John Oliver High School and Normal School to become a teacher. She developed a life-long confidence to not be limited by her gender. After marrying Bill in 1950 they lived with their young family in numerous BC cities before settling in Tsawwassen in 1968.

Throughout her life Gwen became proficient at many activities. In addition to teaching - as a way of life - music was a passion. She played piano, providing accompaniment at her many parties and family events, still playing into her nineties. Early in life Gwen played tennis for exercise and the social connections later becoming a talented ping pong player. Then there were her many activities such as: sewing, crafts, painting, cake decorating, canning, and jam making that she taught her children. Church activities were a regular part of her life. To constantly improve her knowledge she joined an investment club for women. Gwen will be especially remembered, by many, for playing bridge and for teaching it at Kinsmen for over thirty years.

When her children were older Gwen returned to teaching as a substitute teacher. Starting off in the local elementary schools her abilities were quickly recognized and soon she was being called to the Junior and Senior High schools where she was the first female substitute teacher accepted to teach shop classes.

Gwen and Bill enjoyed travelling, often on trips related to Bill's job at B.C. Hydro. They had an enduring, special connection with Brazil where there are still many friends. After Bill passed she went on trips and cruises with some of her children. Also, she travelled to Wales on a church trip and then to Ireland.

Gwen suffered a stroke in 2012 and continued to participate in the community while living with Barb and Don for the last ten years. Special thanks to Dr. Noble, Leona, Katherine, Lindsay, Emily and many others who made that possible. Also, thanks to the staff at Delta View care home for making Gwen comfortable at the end.

A Celebration of Life in honour of Gwen will be held at 2pm, Saturday, April 15th at St. David's Anglican Church, 1115 - 51A St. Delta.