Obituary of Olwen Rochelle THOMAS
Our dear Olwen passed away peacefully on December 12, 2017. Born in Calgary on January 23, 1948 to Daniel and Rochelle Evans, she grew up in the ‘Beltline’ area, attending Connaught School, then Central High School. Following the loss of her Dad, she and her brother Craig moved with their Mum to Mount Pleasant.
Olwen was blessed with the strength, grace, and gentle spirit of her amazing mother.
After finishing high school at Crescent Heights, Olwen attended Mount Royal College and the University of Calgary. She started an exceptional education career at Crescent in 1972, and with a Master’s Degree in Special Education (San Francisco State U.) Olwen became a leader in special education who helped shape educational practice and policy which continues to benefit children today.
Olwen leaves her dear Mum, Rochelle, who, at 94, is a wonder to all who know her; her husband Wayne Thomas, and daughters, Karen Thomas (Kelley Charlebois) of Calgary with their children Cole and Muriel, and Christy Thomas (Bill Stockton), of Vancouver, BC, and their children Eloise and Ryerson; Craig Evans, her brother, and his wife Sherry, of Calgary, nephews Daniel, Tyler, Chad (Kristin) son Beckett, niece Madeline (Ian); Wayne’s sister, Vicki (children Fraser, David, Mary), and brother Hadyn (children Moira, Evan, Isla); many more loved ones from the Evans family, the Loves, the Krafts, and the Thomas’.
Olwen loved her family and her life at home, walking with her dogs, Cassy and Buster, tending her beautiful garden, and always enjoying cooking and baking. Olwen was a master gardener, dog lover, beautiful wife, wonderful step-mom, devoted daughter, affectionate sister, and loving Nana to her four grandchildren.
She traveled to many distant parts of the world with Wayne, seeing amazing things and visiting with friends and relatives. Olwen was a long-time board member at The Children’s Cottage, and volunteered in many other roles in the community, U Calgary Basketball, and the Zoo. In later years she enjoyed Yoga classes with Sophie and her Rosedale friends. Olwen was a quietly giving person her entire life who gave thoughtful help to others in need. Those who had the fortune of knowing her were better for it.
Our thanks to Dr. M. Deyholos, Dr. J. Monzon, the staff at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, Calgary Home Care, and the remarkable Rosedale Hospice. Messages about Olwen through: www.calgarycrematorium.com. Should you wish to give in Olwen’s memory, please consider donations to: The Children’s Cottage Society and to Rosedale Hospice.
A celebration of Olwen’s life will be held at Crescent Heights High School - Student Centre on Thursday, December 28 from 2 - 5 pm.