Gwendolyn Lindsay Stilwell (nee Burley)

Peacefully on Monday December 13 at Credit Valley Hospital, at the age of 97. Predeceased by her beloved husband Evan, in 1986. Gwen will be lovingly remembered by her son Wayne (Tammi), grandsons Ryan & Kirk, sister Joan (Grant) and nieces Lynne (Mike) and Karen (Simon).

She had many careers in her lifetime including Belleville Hospital, runway fashion model, full-time mom, salesperson at Birk’s Jewelry and finally as a receptionist at Eaton/Laurentian Financial Sherway Gardens. To keep active, she volunteered at Fairfield Seniors Centre in Etobicoke well into her 80’s.

She was also a long-time member of St Lukes United Church in Etobicoke and volunteered for the UCW group. She especially enjoyed working the annual Rummage Sale and always came home with some amazing treasures.

Gwen was always ready to lend a hand, give advice or just be supportive throughout her life. She relished the time spent with her grandsons, she was so patient teaching piano lessons and was always baking treats including her famous flat chocolate chip cookies! She loved her desserts, especially chocolate ones and she always made sure there was a fine selection for special events.

Her favourite times were at the lake, any lake. Founding member of the Bonker’s Cove Lake Association on 9 Mile Lake in Muskoka. She loved being on the water, going for a boat ride, watching the sunset or a full moon on a calm night. She celebrated her 90th birthday at the cottage surrounded by her whole family and loved every minute of it.

Gwen lived independently for most of her life, only needing some assistance from her family and PSW helpers recently, especially her favourite PSW Agnes. Special thanks to her newest friend Mary at McCall Centre, for her companionship, laughs and beautiful artwork!

She enjoyed an active life, well lived, full of laughter and will be fondly remembered by her friends and family.

A small family Memorial will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.