Judith Rohrer Andersen
11 June 1943 – 5 June 2013
Judith lived her early life in Los Angeles, California. She married her husband, Richard Andersen (also of Los Angeles) in 1968. In 1982 she and Richard immigrated to Canada, moving first onto her family-owned Russell Island, situated at the mouth of Fulford Harbour, Saltspring Island. Since 1997 they lived in a newly designated Heritage residence in Oak Bay.
Judith was accomplished in a wide range of the arts: she played the harpsichord, had a loom by which she produced textiles of her own artistry, participated in folk dancing, and was an active volunteer and supporter of a wide variety of arts organizations. Her interests in design informed her efforts to restore two Craftsman-style residences in Oak Bay and create her own garden.
Throughout her life Judith was a devoted community volunteer. While living on Russell Island, she commuted by rowboat to Saltspring Island to volunteer countless hours at the community library. After her move to Oak Bay, she was a volunteer and supporter of the Early Music Society of the Islands. She was a tireless heritage advocate for both Victoria and Oak Bay. She helped with the compilation of inventories of historic residences under the respective sponsorships of the Victoria Heritage Foundation and Heritage Oak Bay. She volunteered on many of the local fund raising house and garden tours, often including her own garden.
Judith is remembered especially for her personal kindness: rather than thinking of herself first, she always considered others. Judith was the picture of elegance, even while walking her dogs. She had a finely developed sense of humour and enjoyed laughing with friends and family. Judith was an excellent cook of the highest caliber. This can be attested by those fortunate enough to share exquisite meals at her table.
Judith is survived by her husband Richard, her sister Lynne Rohrer Zinsley, and her dog Taylor. Taylor will take up residence in Port Coquitlam. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Victoria Foundation in her memory. There will be neither a funeral nor a memorial service, at Judith’s request.