We Remember

NORDSTROM, Gwendolyn

June 20, 1966 — July 1, 2023

In loving memory of Gwen Nordstrom, a shining light of caring and beauty.

There are no words to describe the loss of Gwen Nordstrom (née Rathbone). A unique and remarkable woman whose vibrant spirit touched and changed the lives of everyone she met. At 57 years old, she passed away on July 1, 2023, after a courageous two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. Gwen’s determination, strength, dedication to helping others, and passion for creating beauty in the world will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born on June 20, 1966, Gwen Nordstrom grew up facing many challenges, which developed in her a deep sense of empathy and a desire to make a positive impact on the world around her. She used her creativity and ingenuity to pay her way through school, and after completing her studies in social work, Gwen embarked on a career that would become her calling. As a social worker, she tirelessly worked to provide well-being and safety for girls, youth in crisis, and women seeking to create better lives.

Throughout her career, Gwen Nordstrom was an advocate for her clients and a living example of the values she held dear. Her unwavering belief in the power of education inspired those around her to pursue knowledge and personal growth. Gwen understood that education could be a transformative force, empowering individuals to overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.

Moreover, Gwen Nordstrom recognized the importance of self-care and healthy living. She exemplified these values, inspiring others to prioritize their well-being through cooking and creating a beautiful home. In later years, Gwen found a new passion in landscape design that allowed her to express her creativity and love for nature. Beyond her professional achievements, Gwen Nordstrom was a devoted wife, mother, sister, daughter, and animal lover.

She possessed a radiant smile that could light up any room and a compassionate heart that sought to uplift and support those around her. Gwen’s laughter was contagious, and her presence brought warmth and joy to every gathering. Her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know her.

Gwen is survived by her caring husband Alan; and her son Brock Swann and stepdaughter Mickayla Gal, and their spouses. Her siblings, many nieces and nephews, and extended family will miss her deeply. The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers that treated Gwen with compassion and respect at the Kelowna General Hospital, Cancer Clinic, and Central Okanagan Hospice House.

Instead of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to the Boys and Girls Club Okanagan, the Kelowna Women’s Shelter, and Central Okanagan Hospice House, in Gwen’s honour.

A Celebration of her Life will be held on SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023, at 1:00 PM, 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
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023, at 1:00 PM

Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

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The Boys and Girls Club Okanagan, the Kelowna Women's Shelter, or the Central Okanagan Hospice House Link: www.bgco.ca, www.kelownawomensshelter.com, hospicehousekelowna.com

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for NORDSTROM, Gwendolyn is scheduled for SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023, at 1:00 PM. 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

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

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Condolences

  • Betty Thomas says:
    July 18, 2023 at 3:23 pm

    Gwen was a co-worker several years ago when we worked for Now Canada. I was so impressed with her caring compassionate way she had with the girls She was always cheerful and happy…, such a positive ray of sunshine! And yet she was a very dedicated hard-working gal. We have just lost a unique and very creative friend. Our condolences go out to her family and close friends as I’m sure she has left a huge hole in the lives of many. God bless you all in your time of sorrow.

    Reply
  • Cassie says:
    July 18, 2023 at 4:15 pm

    As much as Gwen feels the staff at KGH brought positivity to her life I also believe that she touched my life with positivity and light. I was one of her nurses at KGH. She made me smile each and every interaction I had with her even in her darkest times. I will never forget her spicy and sweet personality and how she always looked so deeply into my eyes during conversation. Her strength is beyond anything I have yet to see in my year and a half working as a new grad RN. Hands down the strongest woman I have cared for. Her powerful spirit will absolutely never leave this earth or her family. She will always be there to motivate and support each and every one of you.

    Reply
  • Jo says:
    August 7, 2023 at 3:38 pm

    I first met Gwen when we began working together at KHS in spring of 2010. Over time she became one of my best friends and I loved her dearly. She was one of the kindest and most caring people I have met and was always full of positive energy. She was incredibly hard-working and was one of the strongest people I know. I loved her sparkling blue eyes and throaty laugh. We shared many good times together and although her friendship lives on in my heart and memories, my world is a little bit less shiny without her. I will miss her dearly. This photo of Gwen was taken at my 50th birthday party. She was a beautiful lady. My heart goes out to her family. I can’t imagine their loss.

    Reply
  • Sherry Dalziel says:
    September 9, 2023 at 8:52 am

    My heart goes out to Brock, Al, and family and friends. Wish I could be there to celebrate her life, as she was so special and loving.

    Reply

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Testimonials

They took care of me like family.

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