In Celebration of

Audrey Jarvis

January 25, 1930 -  January 9, 2023

Full of grace until the end, our beloved Audrey (nee Mahon) passed away peacefully, surrounded by family. Predeceased by her husband Keith, she leaves behind her children, Kathy Abels (Frank), Maureen (Kieran Foster), Jim (Brenda Jarvis), and Ted (Lisa Plow-Jarvis), thirteen grandchildren, Peter, Matthew, Jimmy and Katie Abels, Emily (James), Olivia, John Jarvis, Audrey, Mary Foster, Keith, Harrison, Luke, Isobel Jarvis, and her great grandchild Birdie. Audrey is also survived by her sister-in-law, Kathy (Paul Meade). Audrey was predeceased by her parents, Edna and Tony; and her brothers Larry and Jim; and her sister Connie Corner. Her peaceful resolve and inquisitive nature made her a trusted confidant and mentor to nephews, nieces, and friends of her children.

A proud Winnipegger, Audrey attended St. Mary’s Academy and the University of Manitoba where she graduated with a degree in Home Economics. She continued postgraduate studies at University of Minnesota and became a Registered Dietitian, pursuing hospital work in Portland, Oregon, and later in life teaching nutrition at George Brown College. An inspired leader, Audrey's University yearbook noted “she has proven that the fairer sex is as capable as their opposites”. President of her university class, Audrey was valedictorian of every class from which she graduated. Her zest for life led to travel to Europe and work in Lake Louise, Minnesota, and Oregon; all of which inspired a sense of adventure in her children and grandchildren. Audrey and Keith enjoyed retirement travel to visit children in Japan, South Africa, England, and Australia.

While raising four children in Etobicoke, Audrey and Keith were a guiding force in the community. They ran spiritual retreats for hundreds of high school children, as well as the marriage preparation course at their parish. Audrey was the recipient of an Award of Merit from the city of Etobicoke for creating a reading program where local seniors tutored school children. She was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League and the University Women’s Club.

Mom enjoyed her tennis, golf, and a good party. She created a warm family home where everyone was welcome and we felt secure in her unconditional love. She selflessly put family ahead of herself, supporting our lives to be the fullest they could be. Mom’s humour, humility and grace are gifts that will be felt for generations.

A Mass followed by a celebration of life will be held at Nativity of Our Lord Church in Etobicoke at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, March 31, 2023. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Covenant House.

Guestbook 

(4 of 4)


Mark Janssen (Friend)

Entered January 21, 2023 from ETOBICOKE

Audrey and Keith were in my eyes, the all star couple. I knew them both from our parish, and when it came to matters of faith and discipleship, they lead by example, and so by inspired me to try and live my faith more meaningfully and actively. My wife Carol and I were blessed to work with Keith and Audrey on the Marriage Preparation course for a number of years, where they gently mentored us with their grace and wisdom, before handing it off to us to continue their legacy.

What a blessing to have felt the warm glow that always emanated from these two special people. May the way they lived their lives continue to inspire us for years to come.

Well done faithful servants. May you eternally rest in peace!

Neil Jones (Friend)

Entered January 29, 2023 from Etobicoke

I wanted express my deepest sympathies to the Jarvis family. I have fond memories of playing tennis with Audrey, I use to ride my bike over to the plaza and Audrey would pick me up in her car and we would drive out to Credit Valley Tennis club for the women’s morning tennis round Robbin. I enjoyed visiting with Audrey in her home in Etobicoke, we had a lot of fun playing tennis. My condolences, Neil Jones

Noreen Shanahan (cousin)

Entered January 30, 2023 from Toronto

Audrey was always very special to me! Ever since I was a little girl, when we would keenly discuss books--so she had a huge part in making me the voracious reader I am. She was also very kind to my mother Marion, especially in mom's last years. We all had some memorable times at the Canadian Room as well as in the kitchen at 28 Harjolyn Drive, with Keith by her side. (Mercedes and Jack's home.)

David Northcote (Family friend and longtime neighbour)

Entered February 3, 2023 from Toronto

Kathy, Jim, Maureen & Ted

My deepest condolences on your mom’s passing. Your mom and dad and were wonderful at helping our family feel at home when we moved from Winnipeg and I remember whenever i was in a room with your mom, whether at our house or yours, she always brightened it up with her smile, kindness and laughter. She leaves a great legacy in all of you and your families and many more, like Bill and me. I hope the great memories will help with the current sadness. I will remember her with great affection.

To my sincere regret, Suzanne and I will be out of the country on March 31st, but our thoughts will be with all of you.

David Northcote

Photos 

(1 of 1)