On October 21, 2021, Wilma Hume Turner (nee White) passed on from our world. Wilma leaves behind a legacy of community involvement and a loving family who will miss her dearly. Wilma was predeceased by her parents Bill and Lena, brother Jim and sister Donna. She is survived by her life long partner and husband, George, Daughters Chris (Len), Nancy (Bill), Sons Jim (Brenda) and Doug. Grandchildren, Erin, Ryan, Jason, Jesse, Greg Sean, James, Cam, Brendan and great grandchildren, Kayla, Jacob, Hazel and many nieces and nephews.
Mom, was born in Negritos, Peru, to William and Lena White. She lived her first 12 years in the small seaside village in Peru. Her father teaching her to swim in the ocean at 6 months old. With the passing of her Mother Lena in 1942, her family moved from Negritos/Talara to Ontario and eventually made their way out to Calgary. It was in her days working for Hudson Bay company that Wilma met George. The two together, were simply the cutest, most dedicated and loving couple one could imagine. Wilma married George John Turner in 1950, celebrating 71 years of marriage together this past year (2021). Mom loved the water and any activity around it. She was, the essence of 'aquatic life'. She achieved the highest honours for her swimming accomplishments. Her love of swimming and fitness inspired many young people in her community of Nelson, as well as her children and grandchildren to follow in her footsteps. Mom was, an influencer. She started teaching swimming, at 16 and lifeguarding at Waterton Lakes.
Wilma leaves a legacy of community service behind. Recently retiring from her paper delivery route in Castlegar the money she raised from her paper route was donated to the ALS society by the paper.
Many people will remember Wilma at Gyro pool, Lakeside and the NDAC. Mom ran the lifeguarding and water safety programs for many years. To her staff she was Mrs "T". To her family she was "Wilma Water Safety". She was instrumental in the development of a plan that would see Nelson's first indoor pool. And she would go on to raise a tremendous amount of money for the cause.
She was at one time, one of the most decorated Royal Life and Red Cross recipients in Canada, not only qualified to instruct, but also to examine at every level. Her accomplishments many: diving, synchronized swimming, life guarding and swim instruction. Her competitive spirit never waivered. In 2011 competing in the BC Senior games at age 81, she garnered 7 medals, and again at age 88 in 2018 she was able to take 8 medals. Mom was known to compete in the younger age brackets, just because she could. Mom set the bar high.
Wilma was active for a time in the Nelson United church. She was always supportive to her family in the Boy Scout and Girl Guide movements and to her husband George and his passions. Wilma took up skiing and immediately became involved in the volunteer ski patrol. She and George networked many friends through Gyros and enjoyed the fellowship of Gyros throughout their life together. The close quality "home grown" friends, She and husband George met early on remained close friends for life. Wilma always enjoyed social interaction but in particular, her family gatherings.
The years spent on the ocean with George, in Freeport, The Bahamas were very rewarding for her years of service to her community. A lifetime of memories.
Wilma never missed a walk on the beach or a highway, an excuse to exercise, or an opportunity to compete. Frequently spotted on Nelson's north shore (on the end of a leash with Golden Retriever "Luna"), or in her latter years walking along Columbia Avenue in Castlegar, where she resided until the time of her passing.
The family would like to express their appreciation to the BC Ambulance service, the attendants and the RCMP.
Due to Covid restrictions, the service for Wilma is by invitation only. Thompson Funeral Service has been entrusted with arrangements.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to ALS.
A celebration of Wilma's life will be held at a later date in the Spring of 2022.
We love you Mom and you will be with us forever. No more snitching from the cookie jar.
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