Adeline Clarice Peterson

It is with sadness that we say goodbye to Adeline, the matriarch of our large extended family. She will be sorely missed but memories will abound for those who loved her. Adeline greatly enjoyed and loved her children Jack Nichol (Marj), Bruce Nichol (Marj), Joyce Denham Dumont - (Charlie), deceased, Sandra Nichol (Davie-dear), Linda Dumont (Bruce) and Debbie Kerr (Dave). Adeline’s love extended to her grandchildren(23), great-grandchildren(41) and great-great grandchildren(26). In return, everyone who was ever part of the family, loved and cherished her. Countless relatives and friends also enjoyed the love of this strong, devoted, compassionate, determined and wise woman.

Adeline was born in Didsbury AB and raised in Bergen AB. Her sense of family responsibility and devotion began at age 5. As the oldest daughter, in a family of 7, she assisted with the care of her younger siblings. At age 12, during the Depression, she would rise early, ride her horse to the one room school and light the stove so that it would be toasty by the time the rest of the children arrived. This duty was in lieu of her family paying County taxes. She completed her high school education in Innisfail AB, where she met Walter Nichol and they married in 1937. Adeline and Walt lived in several communities in Alberta before settling in Sundre where they raised their family. Adeline was instrumental in keeping the high school from closing its doors and establishing the local hospital. She was also an active member of the United Church and the Curling Club and enjoyed the friendship of many.

In 1964, Adeline, Walt and Debbie moved to Vancouver Island and soon she began juggling her successful career as a realtor with devotion to her family, including her elderly mother.

Adeline found joy in her family, the day’s first cup of coffee, crossword puzzles and dancing with friends at McMorran’s Restaurant in Cordova Bay, followed by fried egg sandwiches in the wee hours of the morning. She believed butter is better and that most everything is better with butter. She loved to share important life lessons, her favourite being, “Use your common sense”. She enjoyed travelling both abroad and throughout North America. Her motto while travelling was ‘Don’t be afraid to talk to strangers as you may have lots in common or share mutual acquaintances’. Adeline re-married in 1983 to Wally Peterson. She lived in several Island communities including Central Saanich, Victoria, Langford, Sidney, Bowser, Qualicum Beach and finally Campbell River.

The family wishes to thank the staff of Sonora on the third floor of Discovery Harbour Seniors Community, formerly New Horizons Seniors Care. They saw to Adeline’s needs in a caring, supportive and understanding manner for the past 3 years. They were wonderful to Adeline and her family during the last days of her life.

A family Celebration of Life will be held in Vancouver. When Adeline is laid to rest in Bergen, she will be the last child of John and Hilda Mjolsness to join the family plot. There will be another Celebration of Life at that time.