We Remember

BEST, Sheilagh Anne

September 30, 1935 — May 21, 2021

Sheilagh Best passed away on May 21, 2021, in Vernon, BC. Sheilagh was born in Niagara Falls, Ontario, home-base for many important maternal family connections. While still young, she moved to Deep River, ON where she built several life-long friendships.  After high school, Sheilagh trained as a teacher and began her career. In Ottawa for the summer, she met the love of her life, Donald Best. They married and settled in Peterborough, ON where they had three children, Donald, Ann, and Robert.  Tragically, Donald drowned at age three, a life-changing event for both Sheilagh and Don. When Ann and Robert were school aged, Sheilagh returned to teaching, a great fit for her. During her Peterborough years, she completed her Bachelor of Arts as well as her Master’s in Special Education.

In 1981, Don, Sheilagh and Robert made a HUGE change, moving to Cassiar, BC (2 hours south of the Yukon border!). After getting over the culture shock, they embraced the North and built many more close friendships with some interesting characters who chose to live in this remote mining village.

In 1986, Sheilagh and Don settled in Kelowna, BC, and she taught high school English and Drama, retiring in 1999. In retirement, she enjoyed a stint with the Raging Grannies, moved to Vernon, BC, found time to work on her poetry, and welcomed her grandchildren, Emma and Ian, into her life. She and Don also travelled the world. In 2002, Sheilagh suffered a debilitating stroke. Although it slowed her down, she and Don continued travelling for many more years.

Sheilagh is survived by her daughter, Ann (Barry) Dorval; her son Robert (Betty) Best; her grandchildren, Emma & Ian Dorval; her brother Mike (Linda) Ware; her nieces and nephews; and her extended family. She was predeceased by her husband, Don Best; and her son, Donald; as well as her older brother, Don Ware.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Trinity United Church (3300 Alexis Park Dr, Vernon, BC), in light of restrictions being lifted all are welcome to attend on THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2021, at 1:00 PM PDT. Alternatively, if you are unable to come in person, please feel free to join online by Livestream (see below).  A recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the MS Society of Canada.

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

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MS Society of Canada Link: mssociety.ca

 


 


Condolences

  • Jan Dale says:
    July 6, 2021 at 4:34 pm

    Sheilagh you are always in our hearts and memories. So many years from the North down, so much laughter. and delight!

    Reply
  • Charlie Veaudry says:
    July 6, 2021 at 6:46 pm

    To my friend and Deep River connection. Your delightful sense of humor will keep you long in my memory.

    Reply
  • MP Tracy Gray says:
    July 8, 2021 at 10:56 am

    I am very sorry for your loss and wish your family strength during this difficult time.
    Tracy Gray, Member of Parliament, Kelowna – Lake Country

    Reply
  • Donna Antonishak says:
    July 8, 2021 at 8:24 pm

    Sending condolences and wishes that your memories of Sheilagh are good ones. I really enjoyed her sense of humor and love of life. Donna

    Reply
  • Keith Kroeker says:
    July 10, 2021 at 3:22 pm

    Our deepest condolences. I have very fond memories of our time in Cassiar. Her love of teaching and of the written word inspired a lot of kids. It was amazing how the ‘city’ girl managed to adapt to the quirks and quarks of the the north and fit right in. We’ll miss the phone calls, Sheilagh, and we’ll miss you. May you rest in a well deserved peace.
    Keith & Mary

    Reply
  • Carol & Family says:
    July 15, 2021 at 10:47 am

    Sheilagh had such a wonderful impact on our family. She watched my kids grow up and cheerleaded them along the way. She always wanted to know what they were doing and would applaud them as they grew up. Our lives were richer because of her.. Thinking of you all and sending much love.

    Reply
  • Lindy Blakely says:
    July 15, 2021 at 4:24 pm

    I am so very sorry for your loss. Your Mom was such a lovely friendly lady.

    Reply
  • Betty Ann Prier says:
    July 15, 2021 at 9:10 pm

    Sheilagh , our dear friend we will miss your love and our phone conversations. Sending you to the universe to find Your loved ones . RIP our friend. We will continue to care for your family on earth.
    With love from Betty Ann and Merv

    Reply

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