Lillian Christine Mehlen
July 19th, 2013
It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Mother, Grandmother, Sister & Auntie. Lillian passed away after a brief hospital stay, with her family by her side. Predeceased by William, her beloved husband of 68 years. Survived by son Leonard Mehlen, daughter Joy (Jim), grandchildren Jesse, Christina & Shane Adamson, sister Eileen Rabb, brother Leo (Kath) Holthe and many nieces, nephews and friends.
Born and raised on the farm in Southern Alberta, Lillian worked hard alongside her parents and seven siblings, developing her strong work ethic. She excelled in all aspects of her schooling and won many awards for both her academics, athletics and farm-based achievements.
Just prior to his shipping out, Lillian married her long-time sweetheart on June 1st, 1941. It was to be a long and happy union. Lillian moved to Vancouver during the war to await Bill’s homecoming. Once in Vancouver, she found a position hairdressing at the famed "Georgia Hotel". When Bill returned from World War II they bought their first home.
After a few years, they were thrilled to welcome son Leonard to their lives. They moved to their dream home in Burnaby and soon added Joy to their happy family. They created many cherished memories raising their family there. Lillian stayed home with the kids, but later worked at Eaton's for a number of years, both in the Plant and Pets Departments. After fifty years there, they moved to Coquitlam to a wonderful condo surrounded by many friends and family.
Lillian was a farm girl at heart and loved nothing more than spending countless hours in the garden at the family home in Burnaby. She grew a variety of vegetables, berries and fruits. Her yard was often the envy of the neighbourhood, also filled with gorgeous flowers and trees. In her later years she had to settle for a balcony garden, but never lost her "green thumb". She enjoyed visiting with family and friends. The Wednesday morning "coffee club" was often a highlight of her week. Her daily walks around Lafarge Lake kept her in shape. She was always welcoming and happy to invite you over for tea.
We will deeply miss her place in our lives, but she will forever remain in our hearts. Please join in celebration of this inspirational life on Sunday, August 11th at 1:00, the Hudson Community Room, 1196 Pipeline Road, Coquitlam.
You are invited to leave a fond memory or message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
We both cherish the memory of all the family dinners we shared at your lovely home with your Mom. She was such an inspiration to all of us over the years. I remember her fondly at Eaton's store at Brentwood when I would leave work and pass her in the garden department where we always stopped for a little chat.After many years we joyfully reconnected once again. Bless You! I have so many fond memories: I Look Forward to Meeting Her once more!
Dear Lillian; We will miss our bestest friend and will cherish all the happy times together' We will remember you when it is 10;00 am when we had our tea and lots of the special treats. Love you and you will always be in our hearts; Shirley & Ron
Remembering a dear lady. I know how much she will be missed.
Our hearts are overflowing with emotion for you. Please know that we are thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Lillian, I am going to miss you so much. Will think of you often as we do Bill. Now you will be together again. The angels will be caring for both of you. Love Ron & Jean
Dear Lillian, You touched our hearts with your kindness and love. We respect you for your determination, disciplined way of life, meticulous approach to things and enjoying every bit of what you did. Our association has not been too long, but we were so impressed. We will always remember the walk we took with you around the lake. You were so thoughtful that you always carried a cushion in a bag to rest in-between, making your exercise routine a pleasure and habit that you would not miss. You are an amazing woman!! You are an inspiration to many Hudson families. You will be missed, but will always remain in our hearts. Love you, Rajam and Prema