Obituaries

SHEANE, Margaret Anne

July 10, 1955 - February 11, 2021

I started writing this long before my mom passed. I’m not exactly sure why; likely a combination of preparing for the inevitable, and protecting myself early for when the inevitable came. It made me anxious - not the sadness it would bring to write, but the thought of having to write this on my own without her help, for this type of thing is something I would usually have her edit for me; correct grammar and re-work a few sentences. My mom was a talented writer, and thoughtful speaker. I did ponder the outcome of asking someone to edit their own obituary - seemed a bit strange, but she would have done it without a blink if I had asked. However, time passes far too quickly and other things become more important, so here I am left writing my mom’s obituary on my own, in the early hours of a snowy morning in Vancouver, on the 2nd day of my new reality of living without my favourite person, and hoping she would have said “sounds great Mads.”

My mom Anne was given the gift of a full life, and on February 11th, 2021, she gave it back. She was 65. This is hard - unfathomable to me, utterly painful and feels unfair as I believe she was taken far too soon. My mom was a brilliant woman, who led a brilliant existence full of hard work (18 hour days in nursing and her law practice), laughter (the pants-wetting, silent tears kind), love (deep and profound), travel (Europe, Mexico, the US), music (she was a great dancer), and time spent with family and her favourite people (you know who you are). For this I am grateful, and so is she.

I know that I am lucky. The bond my mom and I shared was so tight, so strong. She was my rock, and I was hers. I know that she was the happiest when she was with me. When mom’s cancer recurred, she decided she would be joyful about having a full life, and she fought hard to prolong it until the very end. She moved cities to be closer to me, retiring her respected law practice in Victoria, BC, and leaving close friends behind. She was always a text, a phone call, and a 20 minute drive away from me, and we spent paramount time together so often. This is the part that I’m having the hardest time with - I can’t text her, call her, hug her anymore. To those reading this who have mothers or mother figures in their lives: hug her so tight, as many times as you can, as often as you can. Call her and tell her you love her and are so thankful for what she’s taught you. Watch her laugh, and walk, and move her hands when she talks, and store that deep within you forever, because one day you’ll need those memories to get you through the pain of losing her.

My mom leaves me, Madi, behind, and her grand-baby girl whose entrance earth-side is to be not long after my mom’s birthday this July. She leaves her siblings Penny Oyama (Juan), Gail Plecash (Chris), and Michael Plecash (Wanda). She leaves her nieces and nephews, and her longest, bestest, most favourite soul sister, Laurie Pettinger. There is a deep, deep hole in our hearts, but the price of that hole is worth every second of the time we spent with her. Every single second.

To those that loved my mom, I ask that you celebrate her in your own way. She loved lime margaritas (with ‘the good tequila’) so maybe have one with her and think of the ways she enriched your life. I also ask that you recognize that everyone around you is dealing with their own struggles, grief, stress - the challenges that come with living. Go easy on people. Do simple acts of kindness. Smile at your neighbour, hold the door for someone. Give what you have, when you can. Love and be loved. She taught me these things, and I will cherish her forever. I love you Mom.

For condolences, to share memories, well wishes and your regards, feel free to reach out to [email protected]. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Condolence Messages

Feb 24, 2021
Dear madi,I don’t know you either but your obituary to your mom was beautiful. I too lost my mom almost 5 years ago and I too was the only one in my family who loved her ,wrote her obituary .I took care of her and had a friendship,..hug your mom..if you still have her.tell her thank you,and never forget...

Rose

Richmond
Feb 22, 2021
Madi - your Mom would for sure be so proud of you and definitely would have said "sounds great Mads"! The beautiful pict of you and your Mom drew me in and then the first words you wrote made me want to read on. I don't know you either but you and your Mom sound like you had a beautiful relationship that is to be so cherished. I too lost my Mom who was my best friend and rock 4 years ago and I can totally relate. Enjoy all those great memories, life lessons and time spent together.

Take Care,

Aimee S

Kelowna, BC
Feb 20, 2021
Dear Madi , although I’ve never met you or your wonderful mom before , i am so touched by your heartfelt tribute to your her . I too lost my mother a few years ago and feel your pain .

I miss you

I miss your voice . I miss your smile . I miss your smell . I miss your hug . I miss your jokes . I miss how you made me feel .

I miss your everything .

*. unknown. *

Thinking of You

Michelle R
Feb 19, 2021
I don’t know you or your mom, but have felt deep loss by losing our son at 21 to cancer ......... beautiful tribute to your mom sounds like you had a beautiful relationship with her ..... you will miss her , a mother’s love is forever .... peace & love to you and your family ...... Sharon O’Flaherty Kelowna
Feb 18, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of your moms passing Madi. My heart goes out to you. it is very hard I know. Remember she is always with you, everywhere... in the music, in the moment of everyday life. she is always there to help you make decisions and laugh along with you. I really believe this..

take care sweet Made,

love carebear.
Feb 18, 2021
I knew Anne since about 2000, as a colleague in the law. She was a staunch advocate, a wise adviser, and always willing to tell me when I was full of it. She gave unstintingly to her colleagues and was a wonderful example for others to emulate. The world is a lesser place without her.

Thomas Harding, Surrey
Feb 18, 2021
I knew Anne as a compassionate, extremely caring, and intelligent Counsel with whom it was a pleasure to work. Her Nursing knowledge was extremely helpful.

We shared several files over the years and my one regret was never going to trial with Anne.

Wonderful lady+++++

Many of my colleagues share my view and in your loss....

Joseph Prodor

Trial Lawyer

White Rock, BC
Feb 18, 2021
My condolences go out to Anne's family at this time. Anne was such a beautiful person who always took time to listen to her clients. She was the reason I won my case, her passion to be the best at what she did will never go unnoticed. She was my "ROCK" for 5 years during my case. Anne thank you for always being there for me! RIP!

Grant Smith

Kelowna, BC
Feb 18, 2021
Madi I didn’t know your mom but I read every single word you wrote. What a wonderful relationship you had. I can see that in the picture of you and her, it’s what drew me to read her obituary. I particularly love the part where you say to realize everyone has issues they’re dealing with. Enjoy and cherish your memories.

Donna. 83
Feb 18, 2021
Sorry To Read Of Margaret's Passing My Condolences To Madi And Her Family. She

Was Always Supportive Of Myself And Other Musicians A Sad Day On Earth But A

Joyous One In Heaven

Glen Sobchyshyn