After 94 remarkable years, Tena passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, leaving behind a family who is heartbroken and grateful. Tena was born on a homestead near Aberdeen, Saskatchewan and moved to BC in her early 20s to pursue a psychiatric nursing career. Tena and Ben were married in 1957. Mom laughed, loved, endured, celebrated, forgave, and made a home. And yes, she could be stubborn. You don’t live to 94 without a stubborn streak. 

Mom was a sports fanatic. Didn’t matter what game. She cheered for Canada first and Manitoba last — or the underdog — unless it was Manitoba. This was never fully explained. Mom also played baseball and coached. For Mom, coaching was never just about winning. It was about giving kids confidence, teaching them teamwork, showing up for one another, and making sure everyone had a chance to play.

Mom had a lifelong belief in giving people a chance. Whether it was a kid stepping up to the plate, a Canadian team taking on the world, or the underdog nobody expected to win, she was always ready to cheer them on.

One of Mom's greatest gifts was that she was remarkably non-judgmental.

She didn't need you to be perfect. She didn't need you to agree with her. And she certainly didn't need you to live your life exactly the way she would have. She simply loved you.

Which was particularly impressive considering she had 94 years of experience forming opinions. Which it must be said, did come out in the most awkward times as she reached her later years.

Mom also had a lifelong love of music and entertainment. She played several instruments and could turn just about any gathering into an occasion for a performance. And then there were the ditties. Mom had a remarkable collection of songs that were, at best, questionable and, at worst, probably not suitable for polite company. 

Her music wasn't always refined, but it was memorable. She understood something important: life is too short to worry about looking dignified all the time. Sometimes you just must sing the ridiculous song. 

And we wouldn't have wanted her any other way.

Predeceased by her husband Ben (2007) and grandson Cory Khunkhun (2025), Tena will be forever loved by her son Stephen (Linda), daughters: Karen (Jin), Theresa, and Jo-Anne (Joel); granddaughters: Shauna (Primo), Joanna (Ryan), Heidi (Brad); grandsons: Scott (Lindsey), Ryan (Hailey), Adam (Jenna) and great grandchildren: Mikalah, Anthony, Benjamin, Eli, Evie, Rosie, Stella and Eden.

A gathering to celebrate will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29 at Brandy Wynd Estates’ Clubhouse, 22308 – 124th Avenue, Maple Ridge.