January 6, 1935- September 25, 2022
Vera Agnes Tortoys nee Richardson
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Vera Tortoys in the early hours on September 25th, in Ridge Meadows Hospital.
Vera was a hardworking, independent and creative woman. She enjoyed politics and was always very well informed about current events. Vera was raised in Vancouver with some time spent growing up in Alert Bay, where her parents ran a restaurant. As a child, Vera loved spending time with her Auntie Glad, her favourite Aunt!
Vera trained as a hairdresser at Vancouver Technical High School and in Oregon and she subsequently and successfully opened and ran her own salon. Vera’s creativity was evident in everything she touched. You could see her talent for mixing colours and design in her home and garden. She was also an amazing cook and baker who frequently hosted family gatherings. Vera prided herself on always doing things to the best of her ability. Her greatest love was her husband and daughter.
Vera, Ken and Cathy spent many years living in California. Vera held many joyful memories from those days. When they returned to Vancouver, she spent many years working at the Bay, where she met her dear friend Tina and reconnected with the Elmer family.
Vera was predeceased by her loving husband Ken and by her cherished daughter Cathy. Vera is survived by her sister Rita, brother Edward(Deb) and by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and by her foster daughter Linda, in Nova Scotia.
The family wishes to express heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Tina, Jan, Janet and Kevin, Norman and Betty, Lottie and Walter for their selfless caring and kindness to Vera. Your kindness will be remembered always.
Thank you to the numerous medical professionals who assisted Vera over the years.
No funeral by request. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.
January 20th, 2023
This message was written on a postcard which was addressed to Vera. It was mailed from Kazakhstan on 15 November 2022 and just arrived on 18 January 2023. It reads:
"Dear Vera,
I heard the sad news that you had passed recently after a long, hard struggle. It may be strange, but I thought I would send you one last postcard. I have so valued our correspondence over the past two decades, more if you count our thank you cards after Christmas.
Greetings from Kazakhstan - tired, in a deserted airport. I love you and will miss you, Aunt Vera.
Love,
Shane"
October 9th, 2022
My dear sister Vera, you are so loved and missed, on Thanksgiving and always, forever in my heart.
September 30th, 2022
I will always have fond memories of you Auntie Vera! All the letters and cards and phone calls, and it was always so special when I got to visit you. I know you’re happy with Uncle Ken and Cathy again. I will miss you.
Love you Auntie!
September 29th, 2022
I will always have fond memories of you Auntie Vera! All the letters and cards and phone calls, and it was always so special when I got to visit you. I know you’re happy with Uncle Ken and Cathy again. I will miss you.
Love you Auntie!
September 29th, 2022
Our deepest condolences to Vera’s family. Vera and Ken were the most welcoming people. Vera engaged with us as teenagers as well as she did when we became adults. Vera gifted our kids with Christmas ornaments, handmade PJs and crocheted dish towels that we loved. Vera was the most wonderful person, you have had a great influence in our lives. Vera, you will be so missed. Goodbye
September 29th, 2022
My sincere condolences to all the family and friends. Vera touched many hearts, mine is broken but I know Vera and she would be giving me a pep talk. Vera was the best Mother I could have asked for, I will miss you terribly but know you are happy with Cathy and Ken. I love Vera rest easy Mom!
September 28th, 2022
My sincere condolences to the family.
You have reunited with your beloved Cathy and Ken .
I’m going to miss you dearly my friend!
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