November 9, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with great sadness we announce the death of Dr. Colin McIlwaine on Nov 9/2024 at Nelson Jubilee Manor with his family at his bedside, age 89.
Colin was born in Alexandria Egypt, where his parents worked for the British Forces. He grew up in England and Scotland, graduating in Medicine from Edinburgh University in 1958. Colin married his wife Irene (a Registered Nurse) and immigrated to Nelson in 1967 to be the first specialist physician in Internal Medicine. He started the ICU, diabetic day care, continuing medical education and was involved with many other initiatives. Colin was a dedicated physician and loved his career. He also enjoyed the natural world, skiing and hiking regularly with his friends. Music was always important to Colin and he sang in numerous choirs. Music continued to enrich his life until the very end.
Colin and Irene worked, volunteered and lived in many other countries including Fiji, Saudi Arabia, Zimbabwe, St Lucia, Australia and St Thomas Ontario. He returned to Nelson to complete his working career and enjoy a long and active retirement.
Colin is survived by his wife of 65 years Irene, his three children Kirsty McIlwaine (Ian) Heather Woodward (Brian) Andrew McIlwaine, and his five grandchildren Andrew (Madison), Sam, Ben, Callum and Meg. A private green burial has taken place at the Nelson Cemetery and a Celebration of Life will take place in the Nelson United Church on Jan 18, 2025, at 2 pm.
We would like to thank Dr Janz, Dr Noiles and all the staff at Nelson Jubilee Manor for their wonderful care. We are also very grateful to the many musicians, volunteers, and care givers at Jubilee who did so much to enhance Colin's quality of life.
In lieu of flowers a donation to KLH foundation or MSF Canada would be greatly appreciated.
For more information and to leave a message of condolence, please see the Thompson Funeral Service website at https://www.thompsonfs.ca
Service Details
2:00 PM