Tribute

We are sad to announce the sudden passing of Willemina “Willie” Ansell on August 13, 2026, in Crofton, BC. Willie had recently celebrated her 90th  birthday with family and friends on August 2nd and was full of life until the end.

Willie grew up in Ontario, where she married Ron in 1959. After their marriage, they moved to British Columbia and built a life together. They lived in different locations around B.C. and eventually retired to Nakusp on Arrow Lake, where they enjoyed 30 years of retirement. Willie always said that was “her happy place” but they relocated to Vancouver Island 7 years ago, for an easier lifestyle.

She was predeceased by her husband, Ron, in late 2025 after 66 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children and endured the loss of their son, Mark, in 1999. She is survived by her daughter, Kim; son, Craig (Michelle); and granddaughters, Denise (James), Krystina, Meghan, and sister Frieda (Jack).

Willie was known and loved for the values she held dear. Family was at the centre of her world, and she was always eager to contribute, help, and care for those around her. She also expressed her love through food, spending countless hours cooking and baking for others. Whether she was sharing homemade chocolates, scones (Mr. Roberts), or a meal, her generosity was one of the many ways she showed affection.

Willie’s other sources of enjoyment were being near or on the water, events of nature, gardening, and she could spend hours watching the various birds and identifying them. In retirement, she started quilting and joined clubs in Nakusp and Crofton. Maintaining fitness was also important and she attended fitness classes and training until her death.

The family takes comfort in, and is grateful for, the life Willie lived, the friendships and support she enjoyed until the end, and the belief that she is now with the loved ones who went before her. Willie was the heart of the family and will be greatly missed.

A private celebration of life will be held in October.