Glenys passed away peacefully with family in Salmon Arm on May 23, 2016, after a short but intense illness with Alzheimer’s. She was born on January 28, 1936 near Foam Lake, Saskatchewan, the second daughter to Edwin Thorlakur OLAFSON and Marion Elizabeth LYSGAARD.
The family moved to South Burnaby, BC in 1941, and Glenys grew up there, graduating from Burnaby South High School in 1954. She was active in school plays, student councils, and an avid basketball and grass hockey player all through her teen years. She made friendships with several of her school and team mates, which have lasted through the years.
After high school, she met Jim Smith (married in 1957), and completed the Registered Laboratory Technologist program through Vancouver General Hospital in 1958. Their lives together took them to many BC towns: Campbell River, Port Moody, Ocean Falls, Coquitlam, Vernon, Kelowna, Oyama, and then Vernon again where Jim passed away in 1999. Glenys and Jim had three children, starting soon after their marriage. She was always very actively involved in the school and sports events of Bradley, Patricia, and Ian.
Glenys was predeceased by both of her parents and her husband. Remaining are her sister Karna, cousin Loa, brother-in-law Dick, son Brad (Chris Francis), daughter Patti (Don Jameson), son Ian (Tammy Tutt), 8 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren, and many nephews, nieces and cousins.
The family wishes to thank the wonderful staff at Mount Ida Mews in Salmon Arm, where Glenys resided for her final year for the care and love they treated Glenys with. They truly are dedicated to their chosen occupation and have been a huge assistance, particularly to Patti, during this time.
A family gathering will be arranged for a later date in the summer. No other service is planned at this time. Donations in lieu of flowers could be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.
Arrangements entrusted to Fischer’s Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Salmon Arm (250) 833-1129. Email condolences and share memories of Glenys through her obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.