Apr 27, 1937 - May 10, 2018
On Thursday May 10th, 2018 in Victoria we said goodbye to our Beloved Diane Ettles (Gigi). Diane was born on April 27th, 1937 in Welland, Ontario. After a wonderful teaching career in Toronto, Diane moved to Sidney BC to enjoy her early retirement. In the Spring of 1993, Diane moved to Quadra and settled on the Loop with her beloved dogs, Jazzy and Singer. Although Diane was retired she wasn't one to sit still for very long. Soon after arriving and building her new house, she organized the branch of the Arthritis Society Group for Quadra Island and volunteered many hours. She enjoyed music, traveling, gardening, crosswords and sports. She was an avid reader and visiting the library was one of her favourite outings. We met Diane just as her new house was being finished.
Diane had never married nor had children of her own so we simply adopted her! She became an important part of our lives and over the years never missed the special events. She moved back to Sidney to be closer to the kids once they left home to go to college. Sidney was perfect for her. We continued to visit and spending time with her regularly over the years.
When two grandchildren were added, Diane became "Gigi". Weekly visits with the little ones were exciting for her. She looked forward to reading to them, expanding their knowledge like a great teacher would do.
Diane may have been challenged by her Rheumatoid Arthritis for many years but didn't let it slow her down. She taught us so many great lessons in dealing with life and its many challenges, it was remarkable. Her health may have let her down the last few years, but Diane was ready to tackle whatever came next with the same spirited energy, courage and determination.
Her passing may create a void in our heart, but she will be loved forever! She leaves behind one sister, Barbara, and her adopted family, Jason, Alexandra, Tommy, Lilianne, and her darling Marina and Ethan!