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Obituary
With sorrow in our hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our mother Thelma, in Calgary, at the age of ninety-eight.
Mom was born and raised in Vancouver, the only daughter of Nan and Carl Behnsen and younger sister to brother, Frank. Thelma attended grade school in the West End of Vancouver and studied Psychology at the University of British Columbia where she was an active member of the Alpha Phi sorority. Mom graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Philosophy in 1945 and continued her education at Pullman College in Washington State earning a Master’s Degree in Social Work in 1946.
In 1947, Thelma married the late Thomas John and together they raised three children and began their many career-related moves across Canada. Eventually, they retired to Kelowna and Coral Beach on the Okanagan Lake, where Mom enjoyed gardening, playing duplicate bridge and afternoon swims in the lake.
Mom worked many years as a compassioned and dedicated social worker, in Vancouver, Toronto, Montreal, and finally in Calgary where she established and ran the Social Services departments at both the Holy Cross and Rockyview Hospitals. She also had a social worker role in the “People in Conflict” reality television show in 1966/67. After retirement, Mom and Dad spent many joyful years travelling in Canada, the US, and the world.
Thelma was an avid bridge player, playing numerous times during the week until the last few months. She loved to read, participating in many book clubs over the years. Mom was a longstanding member of the University Woman’s Club and was a lifelong learner through various adult education programs. She had a love for dogs raising and nurturing many, including her beloved Honey.
Thelma was predeceased by her husband Thomas John. She will be dearly missed by her three children Carla Watson (Jim), Wendy Campbell (Garvin), and Brock John (Fay). Also missed by her grandchildren Carrie, Chris (Caroline), Nicole (Todd), Kimberly, Jessica (Bob), and great-grandchildren Cassidy and Connor.
The family would like to thank the caring staff at the Southwood Hospice, as well as the Chateau Renoir in Calgary, which was her warm and friendly home for many years.
Mom will be missed and remembered by her many friends and loving family.
In lieu of sending flowers, please consider making a donation to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in Thelma’s honour.
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We offer our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Thelma Audrey Behnsen John May 27 1924 December 22 2022 98 Years Old and hope that their memory may be a source of comfort during this difficult time. Your thoughts and kind words are greatly appreciated.
Death notice for the town of: Calgary, Province: Alberta