Our dearest mother and confidant, Maureen Olson, passed away gracefully of natural causes at age 86.

Born in Edmonton, raised on an orchard in Penticton, Maureen earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the UBC/VGH program. It was in Vancouver where she was introduced to Henry, her beloved husband to whom she was devoted for over 59 ½ years.

Maureen raised three children (Dan, Taimi and Ann) and witnessed them marry and generate 7 grandchildren to surround her.

Throughout her married life she rose to the challenge of moving to 15 different homes, gathering friends in different communities to visit on their “Sunday drives”. Maureen’s career touched the lives of hundreds of young nursing students at the St. Paul’s Hospital, UBC and BCIT programs.

An industrious person, Maureen completed multiple projects each day, was thrifty and knew how to “make do”. Her family was raised on homemade food and clothing. She was often found baking, canning, spinning, knitting, needlepoint, flower arranging, reading, writing and in retirement, she added quilting. Reusing and repurposing articles gave her joy and little was wasted, including her time.

She volunteered in communities to raise money, strengthen groups and connect people. She gave her time to the March of Dimes, Heart and Stroke Foundation, New West Seniors outreach line, the Okanagan Health authority, Parkinson’s Society, Desert Sun Society, the Osoyoos Arts Council, and more. Maureen was recognized as Osoyoos’ Volunteer of the year in 2010.

She constantly shared her knowledge and even caregivers at Mariposa Gardens learned a few good ol’ nursing tricks. She believed everyone was able to learn and succeed; you just had to listen, give them time, and show them the way.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com