We Remember

ABREY, Eileen Ruth

May 12, 1940 — January 30, 2024

On January 30, 2024, in Kelowna, BC, Eileen Abrey went to be with the Lord at the age of 83. She was predeceased by her parents, Ruth and Owen Turriff, her husband, Lloyd, and her brother, Orland Turriff.  Eileen is survived by a large and loving family: her sons and daughters-in-law, Owen (Nadine), Brian (Zofia), Robin (Wendy), Kevin (Jodi), and Darren (Becky); her eleven grandchildren whom she all adored; and one beloved great-grandchild.

Eileen had an unexpected diagnosis of extensive stage 4 cancer, despite only mild symptoms, and passed away peacefully less than two weeks later.  She never complained and reassured everyone around her that all would be OK and that we should just “go with the flow”.

Eileen was born and raised in central Saskatchewan. She attended teachers’ college in Saskatoon and taught at Bergheim school, near Saskatoon.  She married Lloyd in 1959 and raised her 5 boys in Thompson, Manitoba, before moving the family to Glenboro, Manitoba, where they owned and operated a local grocery store.  Subsequent moves brought her and Lloyd to Abbotsford, Fort Nelson, Invermere, and Saskatoon, before moving to Kelowna in 1995.  She loved working in her garden and spending time with her grandchildren when they came to visit.

Eileen’s love for music and her church were defining aspects of her life from a very young age.  She was a highly accomplished pianist and taught piano lessons for many years.  She also played organ and the accordion and had a beautiful singing voice. She found immense joy in sharing her musical talents with her community, spreading harmony and warmth wherever she went.  She played in many churches, for many choirs, and in care homes and hospices.  Alongside her musical pursuits, Eileen also enjoyed quilting, knitting, sewing, puzzles, and reading.

Family was at the heart of everything Eileen did, and her devotion to her loved ones, especially her grandchildren, was unparalleled. She cherished every moment spent with them, creating memories that will be treasured for generations. Eileen’s competitive spirit shone through in her love for games, always eager for a friendly challenge.

Eileen will be missed by her family and friends. As the family matriarch, her laughter, game playing, and incredible cooking were a staple that many had enjoyed.  Her sudden departure from this world came as a shock to many, but there is comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with her departed loved ones for eternity.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the KGH Foundation.

Eileen will be laid to rest at the Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery, 1991 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC.

A Celebration of Life with Reverend Eldon Schultz Officiating will be held on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM (PST), at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

Service
Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM (PST)

Location
Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

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KGH Foundation Link: www.kghfoundation.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for ABREY, Eileen Ruth is scheduled for Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 1:00 PM (PST). Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

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Condolences

  • Will Sohnchen says:
    February 10, 2024 at 9:17 am

    So sorry to hear about Eileen’s passing. We led many services together at Evangel. She was always such a joy to work with. Very organized, yet, sensitive to the leading of God’s Spirit. My condolences to each of the family members at the loss of such a wonderful woman. Earth’s loss is truly heaven’s gain.

    Reply
  • Brenda Dunseath-Shuman says:
    February 10, 2024 at 2:58 pm

    I am so very sad to hear that Mrs. Abrey has passed away. She was my piano teacher for many years in Thompson. She made taking piano lessons fun and I always enjoyed spending time with her. My heart and prayers go out to her whole family during this difficult time.

    Reply
  • Don Klaassen says:
    February 11, 2024 at 8:52 am

    Sorry to her about the passing of your mom. I remember her kind spirit as she tried to teach a young rambunctious boy piano. And the the food around the house during the long monopoly games being played . May the same God that your mom put her trust in comfort you during this time ,as only he can.
    Don Klaassen

    Reply
  • David Dunseath says:
    February 11, 2024 at 9:03 am

    My condolences to the Abrey family. My mom and Eileen were good friends in Saskatoon in the 50s…and Dad and Lloyd grew up together in Grandview. And…it was Eileen and Lloyd who introduced my parents to each other in 1959. Wonderful memories of the Abrey’s in Thompson. Cherished. times. We are slowly losing an incredible generation of faith. Blessings to each of you in this tough time.

    Reply
  • Gale Floyd says:
    February 11, 2024 at 10:19 am

    I send my deepest sympathy during this time of sorrow. The Bible gives a real hope and promise your loved one will live again on a beautiful paradise earth when death will be no more. (John 5:28, 29; Revelation 21:4)

    Reply
  • Marjory Hays says:
    February 13, 2024 at 10:58 am

    Sending love and prayers to the family on the passing of Eileen Abrey.
    Aunt Eileen and Uncle Lloyd were a blessing to so many! Our son and I visited the family visited in Thompson when he was just 3, and really appreciated their kind hospitality!
    Also they officiated at both my parents funerals and showed their love and support.
    One day in heaven we will see them again and never be parted! What a day that will be!

    Reply

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Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke