HURST, Gwendolyn Jean (nee Cowan)

Gwen was a nurse – training she used throughout her life. She was crystal clear that she was done, feisty humour to the end. No regrets. She was immensely appreciative for her wonderful life and often said how lucky she was that she had so many kind men in her life. First and foremost, husband John. Married for 68 ½ years, they had five children: Janet (Ted), Bruce, Cathy (Jamie), Doug (Sophia) and Gord (Gina), 9 grandchildren: Cameron (Kate), Johanna (Aaron), Callie (Matt), Nissa (Jill), Harrison (Laura), Alex, Graham, Amelia and Ella, AND 5 great-grandchildren: Alice, Nola, Riley, Margot and Zayla, who was born on her 90th birthday. Nieces and nephews include Hursts: David, Wendy, Graham and sister-in-law Cynthia, plus Cowans: Marcia, Susan, Glen and sister-in-law Ollie. Predeceased by brother Bob Cowan, brother-in-law Warren Hurst and sister-in-law Lois Hurst. Gwen’s life was about vibrant colour, she was a weaver/knitter who blended rainbow hues into blankets, jackets and mitts that she created and sold with John’s active support. He helped with display, made winders and was so proud of her magnificent work. John also organized trips to BC every year as well as Mexico, Britain, Norway, Europe and even Syria. Friends were legendary and many. This included the “Bridge Club”, a group of 8 couples, including John’s brother Warren and Cynthia that played bridge regularly and were dear friends for over 70 years. More recently, after the move into Arbour Trails, Gwen treasured her many old and new friendships and especially her neighbour wine buddies, Aileen, Harold and Carol. Because 4 of the 5 children had moved to BC and the US, Bruce had a special local role and was/is critical support. Huge thanks to him. The staff at Arbour Trails, especially Amandeep, Jessica, Louisa and Jonathan, Bayshore Palliative, Shannon and Guelph General Hospital were beyond kind, as was Dr. Jennifer Caspers. Extra special thanks to Dr. Brigitte Gerson, the texts and visits were so helpful! Memorial contributions to can be made to Gwen’s special interests: Crohn’s and Colitis Canada 1-800-387-1479 or Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis 519-836-5710. Arrangements entrusted to GILCHRIST CHAPEL – McIntyre & Wilkie Funeral Home, One Delhi Street, Guelph, (519-824-0031).  We invite you to leave your memories and donations online at: www.gilchristchapel.com and they will be forwarded to the family.