Mary Eleanor Summers
December 8th, 2014
Eleanor was born in Vancouver. She lived most of her life in Vancouver, Richmond, and Tsawwassen, with a brief period in Calgary, AB during WW2, where she met her husband of 68 years, Bob Summers. They were married in Vancouver in 1946. Before the War she worked in Vancouver as a street photographer. Just before and after marriage she worked as a legal secretary in Victoria and Vancouver. After starting a family she devoted her life to raising her two children and to volunteer activities. She volunteered for the Red Cross in Richmond for many years, then when living in Tsawwassen was a volunteer with the Delta Hospital Auxiliary for 27 years.
During the early years she and Bob loved outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and family camping trips. In later years they enjoyed travelling, and their many trips included three to Australia to visit Eleanor’s distant cousins on her mother’s side. In her final years health issues prevented travel, but she still enjoyed local outdoor activities. Eleanor traces her Wyckoff roots in North America back to their arrival in 1637 where they settled in what is now Brooklyn New York, and in Canada back to a United Empire Loyalist who settled in the District of Niagara, Upper Canada, in 1784.
Eleanor is survived by her loving husband Robert Thomas (Bob) Summers, sons Ken (Gail) and Steve, Grandchildren Cara-lyn (Garrett) Field and Jered (Robyn), great grandchildren Kalieen and Bryn Field, and brother Ron (Toni) Wyckoff. She was predeceased by her brothers Harry and Bob Wyckoff.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to the Alzheimers Society of BC or Delta Hospital Auxiliary.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence for the family.
Messages:
Aunt Eleanor was my Godmother and an inspiration to me. I will always appreciate her gentle spirit, kindness and her faith in God.
I have very fond memories of visiting with Auntie Eleanor and Uncle Bob. I really appreciate all the work Eleanor did on the family history. I do enjoy learning about the family tree. You are all in my prayers, love Barb McKee
Dear Bob, Ken and Steve I had contacted Eunice Robinson about getting a Sea Island calendar again this year and she told me of Eleanor's death. It has been several years since we last met but my memories are particularly about the days in Cora Brown around scouting and other community activities. I also appreciated your visit, Bob, with us up in Hazelton on one of your many explorations in the little trailer. F The many good things Eleanor did in her life live after her. I want to extend my condolences.
Dear Bob, Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family on the death of dear Eleanor. Such a lovely person and a privilege to know. We trust your memories will give you comfort and draw your family and friends closer. Love Sue and Joe
My sympathies to all the Summers family on the passing of Eleanor. Another one of the Cora Brown pioneers has left us. from the Hamalocks
My condolences to Mr. Summers, Ken and Steve.
My condolences Bob during this part of your journey. Blessings on you and your family from Jocelyne Walter (a parishioner at St. David's)
Dear Bob, Ken, Steve & family, My late mother, Christina Ardagh Bedrick, was lifelong friends with Eleanor and I remember her fondly as a kind, sweet lady. I always thought it wonderful that the two had maintained their friendship since early childhood. I just found the information that she had passed, and extend my belated condolences. I also have fond memories of our families getting together and visiting each others homes. Best wishes to you all. Barbara Thompson