Rochelle Gloria Eker
July 10th, 2023
Rochelle Gloria Eker, a beacon of light, love, and unwavering selflessness, peacefully passed away on July 10, 2023. Born in Toronto on October 23, 1953, Rochelle spent her formative years in her birth city before making her home in the beautiful landscapes of West Vancouver, creating a haven for all who stepped into her life.
Rochelle gracefully fulfilled numerous roles throughout her life, yet her purpose was that of a mother. She was fueled by the boundless love she held for her cherished children, Madison, and Jesse, whom she had with Harv. Her expansive love extended to her family, embracing Madison's wife, Nadia, Jesse's wife, Jennifer, and her two rays of sunshine, her grandchildren, Jordan and Brooklyn.
She fulfilled her dream of becoming a flight attendant, a career she had for 25 years. Upon retirement, she pursued many passions and adventures like floral arrangements, interior design, and hiking the Comino Trail solo.
Rochelle’s power, intelligence, and relentless pursuit of knowledge were the foundations of her strength. A beloved friend, cherished daughter, and a humorous, ever-evolving soul, Rochelle left an indelible impact on all who knew her. Among those were her lifelong friends that were like family and her spiritual guides whose teachings enriched her journey.
She often declared herself the "luckiest person in the world," with positivity radiating around her. A dog lover, Rochelle was a nurturing presence for her furry companions. Her laughter and joy were contagious, and her stories were a testament to her rich and fulfilling life. She was beautiful inside and out, a genuinely kind and empowered soul with an uncanny ability to make everyone feel important, extending her care and warmth to all.
In honor of Rochelle's legacy, a Celebration of Life will be held at 5 pm on July 18th. Friends and family are invited to share their memories, reflecting on Rochelle’s life and the many ways she touched those around her.
Rochelle, your absence leaves an undeniable void in our lives, yet our hearts are enriched with cherished memories, filled with love, and inspired by the wisdom you shared. As your spirit finds its peace and freedom, may your profound influence transcend the boundaries of time, offering eternal comfort as you reside deeply within our hearts.
Messages:
My dearest Rochelle - I want to tell you how much I love you. I knew from the moment we met how wonderful Maddi was because of you. I got to know you over the years and realized that that bliss extended to Jesse too and his family. Your beautiful smile and warm soul has always brightened any room you entered and we are all lucky to have had that in our lives. Our friendship has become special to me and will always remain that way. I loved our lunches together and will now always look at the Beach house with warmness in my heart. Oh the stories we told each other !! The dreams we had for our children and our future grandchildren together ! You will always be with me, and I will make sure Bubbie Rochelle will be forever loved. Thank you for shining in my life , for the joys , the heartfelt talks, the advice we gave each other . You are more than a friend to me. You have been a sister - I love you and I know that in my heart you shall forever live ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am so sorry Madison and Jesse , for the loss of your beautiful mother ! We were so fortunate to meet as colleagues at Canadian airlines after they joined, were there with us. Andreas, my husband introduced me to her as he was a warrior flight attendant as well. She was the force of life in a very gentle woman I sent all my love from our family to your family. May she rest in peace Ellen and Andreas Dimitriadis . For ever in our hearts
It is with a saddened and heavy heart that I read the words of Rochelle’s passing. I will always remember her vivacious, kind and generous way of being. Truly she has gone too soon, and yet done so much good for so many while she was here. With all our love to the whole family. Xoxo Phyllis & Howie Kotzer
Jesse and family, We send you our deepest condolences for your loss. Wishing you strength, comfort and peace in this time of mourning. Brian and Mackenzie Ogrin
My deep condolences to your family. Rochelle was the brightest light, filled with joy love compassion and fiery energy. You were fortunate to have a mother like her. So very sorry.
Please accept the Yaszemski family’s sincere sympathy and condolences at this difficult time. We had hoped to meet Rochelle at the upcoming nuptials. Take comfort in knowing a mother’s love is eternal.
Madison, Jesse and families, I am so sorry for your loss. Rochelle was such fun to run into which always led to a joyful catch up chat about children and grandchildren. May the memories of your lovely mom help you through this difficult time. Lisa Hall
My dearest Rocky. We had a great time training together, bunking together when we first got based in Vancouver, and the many trips we shared. Although we haven't seen each other for some time....know I will miss you dearly. Friends always!
My deepest condolences. May her memory be a blessing.
RIP Rochelle ❤️
Please accept our heartfelt condolences on the passing of Rochelle. May her memory forever be a blessing.
I hired your Mom at Wardair and will always remember her fondly. I checked her glowing references and was able to personally welcome her to Wardair training. I recall calling her at work and all her colleagues cheering in the background when I told her she was hired. We were able to reconnect at a Wardair reunion and few years back. So sorry for your loss of this lovely lady. She is gone way too soon. My heart is with you.
Dear Rochelle you will be missed ! I have so many fond and fun memories in training at wardair , what a amazing class we had ! Love you ! Condolences to all your beautiful family RIP my friend ❤️
Chère Rochelle Nos chemins se sont croisés en 2009 sur le "Camino de Santiago" . Nous avons sympathisé et notre devise était: "Ultreia" ( plus loin) . Maintenant que tu nous as quittés, ton chemin continue et ta devise est devenue "Suseia" (plus haut)... ( là ou tu est, je sais que tu comprends le français...) Amitiés Julien
My sincere condolences on the loss of your beloved mother. I just reconnected with your mother few years ago on a picture that was shared of us on a layover in Hawaii in the 80s She was such a lovely soul to work with. I will always remember how much fun it was to work with her and so glad I got to reconnect with her all these years later. Sending your family lots of love❤️
Our deepest sympathies to Rochelle’s family. She truly was a ray of light. The day was always better after a visit with Rochelle ( and dear Georgie). We will always have the most wonderful memories of her…..may she rest in peace. Sincerely, Janis, Garth and Tedi
I am so sorry for your loss. I am Susan Flam's sister and we celebrated all family functions together. May the memories you have bring you comfort. Helen Wanger
Madison and Jesse, My heart hurts for the loss of your beautiful mom. With Jen, Nadia, Jordan and Brooklyn by your sides, hold them close to you. May Rochelle's memories and her beautiful smile be a cozy blanket to your souls. Know that her soul is with you. Hugs to you and may Rochelle RIP. Gone but NEVER forgotten xoxo
I am deeply saddened to hear this news. I knew Rochelle through The Ford Institute and admired her greatly. I am sending condolences and many prayers to her entire family and friends.
While I didn’t know Rochelle personally, we were sisters as both flew with Wardair. However, reading the beautiful comments here, I feel my life would have been more full for having known her. She sounds like the most amazing person. Deep condolences to her family.
We’re so sorry for your loss of your beautiful mother. We never met her, but heard so much about how loving she was. God Bless you all & may the memories keep you strong.
Dear Jesse and Maddie. I am heartbroken at the loss of your mother. I have known your mother for many years while in marriage to the Fox family. Every time we would meet at family affairs, we always had a instant connection. May you find peace and comfort in your memories of your beautiful mother.
So sorry to hear of Rocky's passing. I'm blown away. She was such a beautiful person. RIP Rocky
I'm sorry for your loss. Your mom Rochelle, was such a positive inspiration for me. She encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone, and walk the el Camino. And I did! her children and family were her life. I had no idea she was ill. RIP Rochelle! Buen Camino my friend. Until we pass each other again.
Rest in peace, Jessy my God be with you always.
It is with great sadness, that I learned this evening of Rochelle‘s passing. I met Rochelle 24 years ago. I was just starting my business and she was one of my first clients. Over the next couple of decades she was our biggest fan and, for me, a good friend. I will miss her caring advice, and her warm smile dearly. My deepest condolences to her children, all the members of her extended family, and all of her dear friends of whom I had the pleasure of meeting many.
To Maddison and Jesse Your mom was my good good friend throughout junior high and high school and beyond. We shared so many memories laughter and tears during those years. Those were some of the best years of our lives. We grew up surrounded by the best families and friends and I’m sure your mom would agree that we couldn’t t have asked for better school years. We laughed so much and I spent a lot of time with your wonderful grandparents. We had an opportunity to catch up over dinner several years ago when she was in TO and although we had both blossomed and changed we were still the same. I’m so sorry you are all feeling so much pain and sadness. You mom will never leave you and May her memory be a blessing. Rochelley will be missed in my heart Judie
The world lost a beautiful woman, both inside and out. Rochelle and I were in the same coaching cohort. I admired her grace, devotion to her family, and her kind heart. My condolences to Rochelle’s family and friends and all who knew and loved her.
Rochelle and I worked many years together in the airlines. She was always a ray of sunshine. I am heartsore to hear the news of her passing. My sincerest condolences to the family and friends of this lovely woman.
My sincere condolences to your family Rochelle was a beautiful soul who shall be forever cherished Rest in peace love
Dear Jesse and Madison, I am so stunned by the news you’ve just shared. It’s staggering! Ro was so vibrant and vivacious and the epitome of graciousness! This is a profound loss for you and your respective spouses and her grandchildren and everyone else who had the good fortune to have known her! I’m very aware that you all were what she lived for. We met when we were assigned as roommates at the Byron Katie New Years Mental Cleanse over two decades ago. And though we hadn’t seen each other in years, we were in touch on FB and I think of her often. Had she been ill? I’m shaken to the core. Ro taught you both strength and resilience that will serve you well through this time. Y’all will be in my prayers for comfort and healing and love.
I’m shocked to hear the news. My deepest deepest condolences to Jesse and Madison and family. I knew Rochelle from Wardair days in Vancouver and after she retired in West Van. I always traded her about being the princess until she matured to the Queen. She was an amazing woman and friend. Rochelle, you will be sadly missed by everyone you touched. I’m just shocked. Gone way to soon but definitely lived a full life. Peace Queen Rochelle.
My heart hurts for the loss of an amazing human. She had lived in my heart for many years. May her soul RIP and May her wonderful memories be a comfort to hearts that hurt. My heart is truly hurting. Oxi
We were so lucky to have your mother as our cousin. The thing we will remember the most about your mother was her radiant smile. She always found the good in everything. We will sorely miss her. We send all our love to you and Jen and your children and to Maddy and Nadia. Love, Charlene and Steven
Deepest condolences to the family. Rochelle always radiated such beautiful light and everytime I talked to her I left feeling lighter and safe. You can see what type of person she was by the amazing children she nourished and raised. Rest in peace.
I have no word… I am in shock… I met Rochelle in 1975 at mount Sinai hospital. She was so kind and figured that being a new immigrant I probably had not many friends, so she took me under her wing. And I met all her friends! One of them became my husband…she decided to be a shadchan ! We left the Sinai the same day! She went with Wardair and I with American. I was supposed to meet with her on May 20 for lunch as I was to be in Vancouver, but got so sick, had to cancel my trip… I knew she was not well, she had given me the update. My deepest condolences to you and Madison and your families. I hope you feel comfort in knowing that she was a wonderful lady and loved all of you more than anything else. I will miss her laugh, I will miss her….Eva and Sydney are cuddling her now. Cathy
Not only did we share the same first name, when we traveled to Europe with the Ford Institute there were so many beautiful moments that we shared together and so many other special times you will live in my heart forever ♥️
Dearest Madison, Jesse, Jen & Nadia. Your words about your mom are so true and so beautifully composed. We always loved her laughter with the biggest smile so bright and inviting. Everyone who knew her felt her positivity and joy as we did whenever we spoke or in her company. We know this is a very difficult time and hope as time passes your hearts will heal. May your cherished memories be a source of comfort. She lives on in you. We loved her so much and will miss her terribly. Love Susan & Ron and Family. ❤️❤️❤️❤️
My dear friend Rochelle was a colleague at Wardair, where we met 37 years ago. Her beauty, grace and infectious smile will be forever missed. May you RIP. All my love, Pat and NEMETH
My beautiful and lovely sister, Rochelle... "Your memory is a blessing and will be in my heart, forever and ever."