Shirley Joan Watt (nee Goble)
formerly of Kitimat
April 9, 1929 – December 31, 2010
After enjoying a complete Christmas celebration at home, Shirley passed away peacefully.
Shirley was predeceased by her loving husband of
43 years, Andrew Watt (1996) and her siblings Leonard Goble, Margret McAlpine and Richard Goble.
Shirley will be greatly missed and lovingly remembered by her daughter Karen (Derek Lorimer) in Sidney, BC; son Richard (Carolyn Watt) in Kitimat, BC.
“Marma” was very proud of her grandchildren Heather and Andrew (Lorimer) and Andrea and Evan (Watt). As the family matriarch, Shirley’s circle of love included her sister-in-law Kathy Goble (Smithers, BC), all her nieces, nephews, and many close friends.
Shirley was born in Vancouver, BC and moved with her parents Esther and Joseph Goble and siblings to Kamloops, BC in 1939. Shirley and Andy were married in 1953 in Qualicum Beach, BC and then relocated to Kitimat. When the aluminum smelter was built, newcomers from all over the world began to call this northern wilderness home.
During their 35 years in Kitimat, they developed family-like friendships that lasted their entire lives. Shirley flourished in her homemaking role, enjoyed bookkeeping and teaching English to “New Canadians”. She was proud to say Kitimat is a great place to raise a family, and after a couple of years of travelling, she and Andy relocated to Sidney, BC in 1988.
Shirley will be remembered as a gifted storyteller, a kind and considerate friend and second mother to many. Often considered the “life of the party”, she entertained people of all ages with her terrific wit and wonderful sense of humour. Shirley excelled as a cook and welcoming hostess and enjoyed sewing, bridge, live theatre, Leonard Cohen, gardens, and Happy Hour.
The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to Dr. Lovely, the staff at Saanich Peninsula Hospital and friends and relatives for their kindness and support.
A memorial service to celebrate Shirley’s life will be held at the Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church, 9296 East Saanich Rd, North Saanich, on Saturday, January 22 at noon.
If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation would be appreciated.