November 2, 1932 – February 5, 2026
Our Mom passed away peacefully at Berwick House Retirement Home in Victoria, British Columbia, at the age of 93.
Eileen deeply enjoyed daily walks and writing her memoir. She followed world events closely and remained dedicated to her lifelong commitment to environmental and social justice activism. She will be greatly missed by the wonderful staff at Berwick House and by the many friends she made there, whose companionship meant so much to her. As a family, we extend our heartfelt thanks to her dedicated healthcare team, who supported her with compassion through heart and knee challenges in recent years.
Eileen was predeceased by her beloved husband Gus, her partner of nearly 49 years, as well as her sisters Viola, Reta, and Joyce, and her brother Alfred.
She is lovingly remembered by her three children, Alma Goodwin (John), Kevin Wttewaall (Soraya), and Coreen Cherry (David); six grandchildren, Jenaveve Goodwin (Eric), Katelynn Pederson (Richard), Alex Goodwin, Noah Wttewaall- Arteaga, Brian Cherry (Jenna), and Analise Cherry; and her great-grandson, Aries Goodwin.
Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Eileen later moved to British Columbia with her family. Teaching and lifelong learning were central to her life. She began her career in the 1950s, teaching in both northern and southern British Columbia, and later taught art through the 1970s and 1980s in Kamloops. After retiring, Eileen and Gus taught abroad—three years in Zambia and two years in China.
Eileen held a Master of Art Education and had a deep love for painting and playing the piano, carrying creativity into every aspect of her life. Together, she and Gus built their home on Salt Spring Island, stone by stone and plank by plank. She was especially proud of their passive solar home, reflecting her deep respect for the natural world.
Eileen cherished her Salt Spring Island community and the many conversations they shared about environmental protection, social justice, and the well-being of humanity.
A memorial service celebrating Eileen’s life will be held at Broad View United Church in Victoria on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. A family interment will follow on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Salt Spring Island Natural Cemetery.