Yvonne Whitlock passed away at home on December 10, 2023. She had been surrounded by her family during the last of her days. Through the loving care of her husband, Martin, she was able to die in the comfort of her familiar surroundings with her grandchildren reciprocating the love that she had provided them for years.

Yvonne was born in Sheffield, England, and married Martin in 1969. They immigrated to Canada in 1976 to begin their adventure in Canada together with their two children, David and Richard. Yvonne was her children’s biggest supporter; she will be remembered as the friendly British woman with the cowbell cheering at every one of their hockey and baseball games. She was a mother to every kid on the teams. Her commitment and support of her family led to the happiness and success of her husband and her children. She was the moral compass for the family, installing the virtues of empathy, sympathy and altruism into every member.

Yvonne worked as a veterinary assistant and had years of joy caring for not just the animals, but also the many veterinary students and her employers, always ensuring happiness in her workplace. On her passing, we have been contacted by many of these individuals sharing their love and memories of her: “Vonnie was always smiling”. Her virtues were passed on to all around her.

Yvonne tragically lost her eldest son, David, on December 9, 2019. As is the case, she never fully recovered from the loss emotionally but continued to be supported by her family including her loving daughters-in-law Laura Ritchie and Jessica Breen. She had frequent visits from her grandchildren, bringing her love and kisses until the day she died.

Yvonne is survived by her younger brother, Doug Darley. “Our Doug”, which she would always call him, was like a first son to Yvonne. There were 10 years between the two, and Yvonne would often compare her boys to her younger brother in many of their actions; devious or otherwise. Even as children, we recognized the love she held for him even though they were thousands of miles apart. Doug, and his wonderful wife Diane, came from Sheffield in the last months of Yvonne’s life for a visit. It was wonderful and heart-breaking to witness the impact this had on Yvonne, even as she was into an advanced dementia. It highlighted the power that love can have on illness; to this day we know Yvonne’s sole regret in immigrating to Canada was leaving Doug behind.

We would like to thank Elmarine Mullings and the PSW’s from Bayshore Healthcare for their care which enabled Yvonne to stay home in the last months of her life. She became close friends with each one, and their work exemplified the caring nature that Yvonne had demonstrated herself through her life.

Yvonne will be missed by so many, family and friends. However, her character and spirit has influenced so many that she is truly not lost. Memorial visitation will be held at Bay Gardens Funeral Home, 947 Rymal Road East, HAMILTON (905.574.0405) on Sunday, December 17th from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.