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FAIRBAIRN, Beryl Joan

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fairbairn-beryl

November 17, 1923 – January 11, 2025

 

We are greatly saddened to announce the passing of Beryl in her 101st year.  She will be remembered by her son, Neil of Edmonton; daughter, Janet of Victoria; grandchildren, Allison (Grayson), Ainsley (Lyndon), Rebecca (Cameron) (all of Edmonton), Karen, Heather (Jonathan) (all of Vancouver); daughter-in-law, Margaret of Edmonton; great- grandchildren; nieces; nephews; and younger sister, Delia of Cobourg.

 

Predeceased by her husband, Norman and two brothers. 

 

Beryl was born in London, England and caught the travel bug at a young age. She started her adventures with a dear friend, travelling to Canada where they made their way across the country to Vancouver working in various jobs. Returning to the UK in time for the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, Beryl slept out on The Mall the night before to gain a good viewing spot.  Later returning to Canada, she got a job in Montreal at General Foods where she met Norman. They married in Montreal (1955), transferred to Cobourg, Don Mills, and eventually retired in St. Albert (1990).

 

Beryl continued to enjoy travel and adventure for many years; alongside Norman, she saw all of Canada from coast to coast, including the polar bears of Churchill Falls. Together, they enjoyed the great beaches of Maine and Vancouver Island. In the summer of 1972, Beryl toured Neil and Janet across the United Kingdom. Her century of adventure took her to the Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Italy, Malta, Gibraltar, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, Russia, China, Japan, Turkey, Greece and Morocco. An adventurous soul, she rode a camel in Morocco and had a ride on the back of a neighbour's Harley. She probably would have gone skydiving if given the opportunity.

In St. Albert, she joined the Newcomers Club and fitness centres, and actively attended yoga and other classes into her 90’s.  Later at the care home, she often told the staff that the exercise work was not hard enough - and this was in her 100th year!

 

The family expresses thanks to Dr. K. Bennett of St. Albert, Diane and the team from home care, the wonderful staff at St. Joseph’s Auxiliary Hospital - Butterfly Meadows, and especially her dear sister, Delia with whom she had regular Sunday afternoon tea and phone calls across Canada. Finally, her close friend Lorraine for always visiting, taking her on small excursions, and being there whenever needed.

 

We will celebrate mom’s life at a later date.

 

To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com

 

 

Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home

St. Albert Chapel

(780) 458-2222

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