LARSEN
Mary Julie Ane Larsen
July 15, 1927 -
Aug. 25th, 2008
Born July15th, 1927 in Landerslav, Denmark; the youngest of eight children of Oskar Andreas Larsen and Maren Svendsen. Mary was pre-desceased by her parents, her daughter, Hanne Ayre, her sisters: Olga, Marion, Esther, and her brothers: John and Niels, as well as, her long time partner, Bernhardt Christensen.
Mary is survived by her son, Ole Zoffmann (Karen) of Port Hardy, daughters: Dr. Elisabeth Zoffmann of Vancouver, Susanne Bruneau (Joe) of Campbell River. Grandchildren include: Natalie Crawshaw (Joe), Joanna Zoffmann (Shawn Peart), Sandy Zoffmann (Beth Hrychuk), Ryan Ayre (Kelly), Kristiana Bruneau and Paul Bruneau: Great grandchildren include: Linnaea Crawshaw, Max and Gavin Zoffmann. She also leaves to mourn, her sisters: Nellie Issum and Karen Christensen in Denmark, sisters-in-law: Karen Larsen of Williams Lake and Ulla Larsen of Courtenay, as well as, numerous nieces and nephews in Denmark and Canada. There are also the many friends, business associates, and fellow Rotarians that were an integral part of her life.
Mary immigrated to Canada in 1957 with her husband (Sven Zoffmann - deceased) and their 4 children (Ole, Hanne, Elisabeth and Susanne). They lived in Haney, BC until 1960. This was followed by three years at Babine Lake, BC. The next adventure brought them to Campbell River in the spring of 1964; marking the beginning of what eventually became what she loved best.
After working at the Campbell River Post Office, Mary worked at Dagmar’s Gifts and eventually purchased the business. After selling the business in the early 80’s, the lure of offering a store that had something for everyone, drew her back. Mary bought back Island Images and opened a second store, Tivoli Galleries which focused on local artists, picture framing, limited edition prints, and collectables.
Mary was involved in numerous community organizations: Tidemark Theatre, Downtown Tourist Promotion, Campbell River Museum Society, Campbell River Rotary, and Campbell River Art Gallery. As a side interest, she served on the BC Court of Revision for many years. Mary knew many people and each one held a special place in her life.
Friends and relatives are invited to gather at the Bethany Lutheran Church, (Campbell River) Saturday, 2:00pm, September 6th, , 2008, followed by refreshments and light snacks at 603 Pine Road, Campbell River, BC
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Campbell River Rotary Bursary Fund.