September 21, 1928 - February 27, 2020
Lillian Mary J. Beckler (Bouwman), 91, of Langley, peacefully passed away on 27 February 2020 in Dr. Al Hogg Pavilion. Her final days were spent surrounded by her loving family who shared many stories about a well lived life.
She was born on 21 September 1928 in Leduc, Alberta to Christian Jacob Bouwman and Josephine (nee) Batta.
Those who knew Lillian agree that she led a long and interesting life, pursuing her passions and giving freely to those she knew and loved. She lived in many places, including Trenton (New Jersey), England, Richmond, Vancouver, Prince Rupert and Victoria. After graduating high school she entered into a career with the Royal Canadian Air Force as a meteorologist. In her later years she would often point out cloud formations and predict the weather for her grandchildren. Throughout her life she worked in a variety of places including Mount St. Mary's Hospital and then retired from a long-time position in Stanley Park with the Vancouver Parks Board.
Lillian married Harold St. Laurent in England in 1951. Lillian is survived by her two daughters, Deborah (Tony) and Dawn (Gary) and grandsons Derek, Brian and Jeffrey. Also by her brothers Ralph, Roy (Peggy) and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her siblings Mabel, Dick, Roland and Walter
She had a wide range of interests, including spinning, weaving, knitting, embroidery and playing bridge. Her daughters fondly remember her making sweaters and tea towels for the family and (more importantly) homemade outfits for their Barbies. Lillian achieved her childhood dream of visiting Egypt in 1993 where she travelled in style to see the pyramids. One of Lil's favourite pastimes was her vegetable garden and she enjoyed pickling, canning and turning her harvest into delicious jam.
Lillian will foremost be remembered as a fantastic Nana to her grandchildren. She took an experiential approach, taking her grandchildren on many "adventures", including No. 1 Fire Station in Vancouver, Five Corners in Langley, up the gondola to Grouse Mountain or just to McDonalds in her car, which she called "greeneyes".
As per her wishes, there will be no service.