It is with much grief and sadness that we announce the death of Anita Bouma at Kelowna General Hospital on April 1st 2013. She was a loving mother, a caring sister, consistent friend and a trusted colleague.
Born March 7th 1953 in Zoutkamp, Netherlands, she immigrated with her family to Canada at the age of 16. In 1975 she moved to Salmon Arm and began nursing at Shuswap Lake General Hospital shortly after. Over a career spanning more than 35 years, Anita took pride in her work and is remembered for her “warm, compassionate personality”. For so many people she will be remembered as the friendly face of the hospital and the woman who ensured patients and guests felt comfortable and kept the unit running smoothly.
She cultivated close, long-lasting friendships and was intentional in demonstrating her love. Through times of joy and times of sadness she remained consistent to her friends. Her devotion, contentedness and empathy are qualities we adored and will always remember.
As a mother she was a source of inspiration, an ever-present guide and a role model. As a single mother she raised Marcel with selfless love, providing him with a safe and nurturing home. By her actions she demonstrated the importance of faith, humility, kindness, hard work and active living. She seized every opportunity to celebrate birthdays, holidays and other milestones and made it abundantly clear that she loved and was proud of her son.
Anita was the oldest surviving sister and has four siblings: Errit, Marga, Edith and Andrea. She valued family and connectedness and loved bringing everyone together. She was kind and forgiving toward her siblings and selfless when it came to caring for her parents. She deeply appreciated the support from her family and friends.
Anita lived an active life and would regularly walk for hours in the evening, particularly with her close friend Erica. She also enjoyed nature and had a passion for whale watching. In recent years she would camp on Malcolm Island, BC and could be found on the beach listening to the songs of the orcas.
We would like to invite you to join with us in celebrating Anita’s beautiful life at Broadview Evangelical Free Church (350-30th St NE, Salmon Arm BC) on Sunday April 14th 2013 at 2:00 p.m. There will be a reception following the celebration. In lieu of flowers or gifts donations can be made to the AREA Fund (www.areafund.ca) for asbestos research, education and advocacy or BC Heart & Stroke Foundation (www.heartandstroke.bc.ca).
On line condolences may be sent to Anita’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.