September 18, 1931 – July 18, 2015
Gillian was born in Croydon, Surrey, England to Arthur and Dorrie Harwood. Gill grew up during the war, a very frightening time for her. After school she would deliver medications to people’s homes, worrying that bombs might drop. When Gill was in her early teens she actually brought up Geraldine, her niece, as one might a little sister, building a very close relationship. Gillian worked for London Telecommunication, then for R B Polices at Lloyd’s Gresham House, Old Bond Street, London, for the princely sum of £4 per week.
Gill emigrated to Canada in 1956 and settled in Vancouver, where she opened a hair salon. She moved to the Sunshine Coast in April, 1973 with her husband Ken, where she enjoyed her horses and gardening.
Gill was fiercely independent, intelligent, creative and generous. Her gardens were beautiful, every place she lived she would do an amazing job decorating, and she was an awesome cook. She was truly a perfectionist. Gill worked for an insurance company for many years on the Coast. She was always searching for answers – to her health problems, for ways to help her grandchildren, how to build a pond or fix her car. She was so persistent at trying to solve life’s problems. Gill loved to shop and enjoyed travelling, but most of all she loved Mickey, her little white dog. Sadly we will miss her.
Gillian was predeceased by her parents, Aunt Elsie and her brother Pete. She is survived by her niece Geraldine (Colin) Weighill, her step-children Bill (Jen) Wells, John (Cindy) Wells, Bev (Bob) Horseman, Barb (Fritz) Bango,
Carol Wells, 13 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren with one more expected.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Belgraver and all the staff at Christenson Village for their wonderful care and a special thanks to Gail Dakin for always being there for her.
No service by request.