Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Eileen Mae Bruinsma (nee Young) on June 13, 2021 at Cowichan District
Hospital, Duncan BC following a brief illness.

Eileen was predeceased by her mother, father and great granddaughter, Keeley. Eileen was born on October 20, 1942 in Vancouver, BC. She lived in Vancouver with her parents, Nick and Elsie Young along with her sister, Marlene. It was in Vancouver that Eileen met her husband, Abe Bruinsma. They were married on July 14, 1962 in Vancouver and had been married for 58 years (almost 59 years this July). They lived a short while in Vancouver and their first son, Brian was born there. Shortly after that, because of Abe’s work, they moved to Vancouver Island and a few years later, their second son, Steven was born. They have called the Island their home for the past 58 years. One of their favourite homes was the house on the Lake, where the boys did most of their growing up with many happy times spent with family and friends, especially getting to watch her grandchildren enjoy the lake as much as her boys did. Later Eileen and Abe moved to their final home in Cowichan Bay where Eileen loved overlooking the ocean, as she said “there was always something going on out there”. Eileen/Mom/Grandma/ GG was proud of her family. Mom got to see her sons marry, Brian to Shelley (Emms/Logan) and Steven to Leah (Black). Grandma/ GG was so happy to have her grandchildren in her life Aaron, Kody. Kylie (Nick), Kristen, Adam (Samantha) and Jacquelin. GG was also fortunate to have six great grandchildren Keeley, Lucas, Coulter, Hunter, Brooks and Hudson.

Grandma/GG loved celebrating birthdays, Christmas and other holiday gatherings will all her family around. Eileen had a very close relationship with her sister, Marlene Stokes. They spent many weekends back and forth when their children were young. When Marlene moved to Nanaimo, Eileen and her were even closer, spending time shopping, shows and travelling. Mom also left behind many extended family members and many friends that are too many to mention but Mom loved having coffee visits, family celebrations or long phone chats with them. One of Mom’s favourite things was travelling, especially to Mexico, Hawaii, Vegas and even bus trips to the States for a little gambling. She had numerous trips with Abe, her children, her sister and her fondest memories was being able to travel with her grandchildren. Mom also loved shopping, although we thought maybe a little too much but that was her “thing”. She loved buying for the grandkids and greats. She also loved cooking for her family. Everyone remembers all her fabulous treats and she never came empty handed to a family gathering, even if she was told to.

Although Eileen/Mom/Grandma/GG is gone, she will never be forgotten and eternally in our hearts. She would not have wanted us to remember her in sorrow but laugh about the good times and remember her more for that. We think she would say her greatest accomplishment in life would be her family. Thanks to all the amazing nurses, doctors and therapists for all the wonderful care!

As per Mom’s wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a charity of your choice.