Mary Russell DYSON

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Mary Dyson, a long-time and much-loved resident of the Alberni Valley. She is predeceased by her husband, Jack Dyson (1980) and her sister, Lois Godfrey (2017). She is survived by her daughter, Maureen Dyson of Qualicum Beach; son, Russell and his wife Jennifer Dyson of Port Alberni; as well as her grandchildren, Kaitlin Szyptman (Marek) of North Vancouver, Jacqueline Berris (Nathan Tippe) of Santa Monica CA, Edward Dyson (Melanie) of Port Alberni; and great-grandchildren, Henryk Szyptman and Ada Dyson. She is also survived by her younger sister, Ann Hughes of Campbell River.

Born in Calgary, Alberta the family soon after moved to Port Alberni and Mary spent her childhood on Vancouver Island . With her sisters she attended Queen Margaret’s boarding school in Duncan.  She graduated from St Joseph’s School of Nursing in 1948 and after working in Campbell River she spent 2 ½ memorable years as an xay technician in Santa Barbara, CA before returning to Canada to marry in 1955, eventually settling and creating a home she and Jack built together on Sproat Lake.

Mary was an avid golfer and was involved with the Alberni Golf Club in varying capacities for many years. She volunteered time, energy and expertise to many ventures but she will be remembered for the countless hours she devoted to healthcare in the Valley. Mary was Chair of the West Coast General Hospital Society and then appointed as Chair of the Building Committee overseeing the construction of the new West Coast General Hospital which opened in 2001. She then acted as a Director on the Board of the Vancouver Island Health Authority until retirement in 2005. Mary was a kind and determined woman who inspired us all to be our best. She will be missed.

The family wishes to express their sincere thanks to the most amazing staff and volunteers at Ty Watson house for their care of Mary during these past months. A Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, September 23, 2022 at the Trinity Anglican and Lutheran Church, 4766 Angus Street. In lieu of flowers a donation in Mary’s memory to the Alberni Valley Hospice Society would be most appreciated.