Florence Lewis
January 27, 1925 - April 27, 2020
With deep sorrow we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Florence Christibell Lewis on April 27, 2020. Florence was born January 27, 1925 in Two Hills, Alberta to Howard and Winifred Henderson, the eldest of 6 children.
Our grandmother was left a widow and the children fatherless when Mom was 8 years old. Hard times prevailed but family was important. At the age of 14 Florence was sent to live with family friends to attend school and to help out with the families children and chores.
Later on Florence worked in Edmonton for a short time and then at the age of 18 she enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces and became a WAC. She trained in Kingston Ontario and was stationed in Ottawa where she worked in Transportation as a driver. Mom was so proud of this accomplishment. These few years impacted and guided her life instilling in her the strength she carried the rest of her life.
In 1947 she met and married Jack Summerhays and they had 5 children. Mom always went without herself to provide for her kids.
Florence was a daughter, a sister, a mother, a friend, a cook, a golfer, a curler, a dancer and a tireless volunteer.
Florence was a life member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch # 3 for 73 years, a Ladies Auxiliary Member holding many positions and belonged to St. Michaels' Anglican Church for years. It was important to Mom that her kids attend Sunday School and Church where we were all baptized and confirmed along with many of her grandchildren.
Florence was always there to lend a helping hand in the community she loved so much.
She retired from the Bow River Lodge after 16 years of service as a dedicated cook. The meals were homemade and much appreciated by all of the Seniors.
In 1988, Florence volunteered with the Winter Olympics. This experience for her was exciting, fun and a memorable time. It is here where she met her dear friend Ted Bohnet as they were both drivers for the athletes. Mom and Ted were inseparable and had 30 years of happiness which both families were grateful for.
Florence is survived by her children: daughter Linda Weller, sons Lorne (Donna), Roy, Gary (Pattie) Summerhays. She has 8 grandchildren: Chris Summerhays, Darin (Amanda) Summerhays, Lesley (Jeremy) DeGagne, Jeannie (William McDonald) Summerhays, Wade Summerhays, Ryan (Jessica) Summerhays, Brendon Summerhays and last but not least Adrian Weller, 11 great grandchildren and also survived by numerous nieces and nephews which include Rudy and Pat Zawada and their 3 sons along with a handful of cousins.
Mom loved all her kids and grandkids. She was so proud of all their accomplishments. She did everything she could for us and was always there when we needed her.
Florence was the eldest and last remaining of her siblings. She was also predeceased by her loving son Laverne Summerhays (2012), great granddaughter Alayna Summerhays (2014) and longtime friend and companion Ted Bohnet (2017).
We would like to thank the nurses, LPN's and staff of Parkland Annex, Southwood Long Term Care Centre for the loving care, kindness and compassion our Mother received. We would also like to thank Maura and staff of The Colonel Belcher CareWest Assisted Living where Mom resided for 2 years when she first moved to Calgary.
Florence will be laid to rest in the Veteran's Field of Honor, Canmore Cemetery, in a private graveside service on May 8, 2020. A celebration of our Mother's life will be held at St. Michael's Anglican Church once the Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted.
To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Florence please visit www.choicememorial.com. Arrangements entrusted to the care of Choice Memorial Cremation & Funeral Services (403) 277-7343.