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Aileen Nona Woolridge (nee Clare)

Aileen Nona Woolridge (nee Clare)

Passed on: May 26th, 2018

Much loved artist, walker, and mother to Alison and Nicholas, Grammie to Aaron and Theo, and welcoming mother-in-law to Lianne Friesen and Brian Marler (who could get her to do anything). Peacefully passed away at 85 years, May 26th, 2018, after a stroke ten days prior. Predeceased by her mother Anita “Nettie” Clare (Waye) and her father Raleigh Clare, and her husband Fred. Well-loved aunt of Renée, Frank, and Shane Lemessurier, predeceased by their parents Cynthia (Woolridge) and Howard Lemessurier. Aileen was born in Sackville, NB, much loved daughter of Nettie and Raleigh, who later became professional photographers. She attended Mount Allison University, earned a BFA, and met Fred Woolridge; they were married in 1960. After living in St. John’s for two years, they moved to Corner Brook, and she knew she’d found her place. Like her parents, Aileen was fascinated with people, and she was able to capture through her portraits both their likeness and something deeper. Active in the city she loved, Aileen was a mentor, muse, and inspiration to many in the arts community. A gentle friend who accepted everyone, countless people enjoyed her hospitality, and sat in her kitchen to talk over a cup of tea or a glass of wine. Aileen was a strong and profoundly kind woman with too many true and good friends, near and far, to name. The family especially wants to thank: the exceptional Frances and Cyril Vardy, who were always there to support and help; Karen McLeod, for the friendship, unconditional love, and grocery runs; Barb Hoskins, for her many kindnesses; Betty Lou and Dave Ledrew; and Bernie Cumby, who amongst other things cleared the snow so that she could walk out and feed the crows, which were better fed than most humans. Together these friends and others allowed her to live independently in her home until the end of her life, which was her fervent wish. Aileen dearly loved her cat Lily, who at fifteen years is the youngest cat you’ve ever seen, and who, even with nine plates of food, is unhappy with the selection. The family would also like to mention the compassion and care of Dr. Mark Smallwood, her GP, the humour and empathy of Dr. Bill Eaton, her palliative care specialist, and especially the angel-like presence of all the palliative care nurses, including Mary, Beulah, and Pam (on her last shift at the palliative care unit after many years of service). And thank you to all the other nursing staff at Western memorial Hospital who walked a shell-shocked family through the worst times with such care (Kerry-Anne, Stephanie, Rebecca, Melissa and others whose names may elude us but whose kindnesses did not). Aileen didn’t like funerals, so there won’t be one, but a gathering in her honour will be announced at a later date. The family guest book may be signed by visiting www.fillatre.ca.

 

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