April 2, 1943 - September 17, 2020
It is with great sadness we share that Louise Therese Jocelyne Sahlsten (nee Michaud) went on her Final Voyage September 17, 2020 at the Fraser Canyon Hospital in Hope, B.C.
Louise was born on April 2, 1943 in Quebec, Canada. After meeting many challenges in her earlier years, she arrived in B.C. in 1977 on her own with 6 children. Louise Cassidy worked at the Caisse Populaire of Maillardville and then at the Riverview Credit Union from where she retired. During this time, she raised her family and married George Sahlsten.
Louise was predeceased by her husband, George and grandson, Jeremy.
She leaves behind her son Richard and daughter Elisa, aka Alyssa; her daughter Genevieve, aka Genny (Shawn) and their sons Kevin (Meagan) and children, Zachery and Elliot and Nick (Carly) and children Connor and Kallie; her daughter Louise and children Tyrone, Melina & Michelle; her daughter Leigh; her daughter Murielle; her daughter Alynn and son Jamie; step-son Ryan (Ingrid) and children Rylee, Kiefer, Ellie and Nolan. Along with Who, Carla and Lola who were taken into her heart and home like family over the years.
Louise maintained lifelong relationships with family members and friends from across the country. Wherever she went friends were made. Anyone who made it into her Rolodex stayed there and no doubt received personal letters and cards from her through snail mail. Impressive in this digital age.
Louise and her husband George enjoyed many seasons in their Summer trailer at the Camper's Roost in Hope, B.C. Louise moved to Hope 6 years ago after George's passing. She lived happily and peacefully surrounded by mountains; working in her garden; caring for her cats, Tommie and Maxine, and passing the days keeping busy with her various hobbies and projects.
Louise loved living in Hope, participating in Bingo, swimming at the Recreation Centre, frequenting the library and various shops and services in town, relishing a meal at one of her favourite restaurants and enjoying walks by the river.
Mom was involved in supporting members of her community wherever she lived. In Hope she helped the Women's shelter, Homeless shelter and Hope Community Services in a variety of ways. Mom spent countless hours over the years knitting, crocheting, sewing and crafting. She also had a soft spot for the Chilliwack Animal Safe Haven Society where she adopted Tommie and Maxine.
Louise was a kind, lovely, bubbly, full-of-life person who everyone liked to be around. She is remembered for her dignity, compassion, laughter, generosity, authenticity and courage. A beacon of light for so many, she will be missed more than words can say.
Thank you to all the wonderful folks at the Fraser Canyon Hospital and the Fraser Canyon Hospice Society who helped our Mom and all those who came to say goodbye to her with such caring and kindness. You are all truly appreciated.