With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Terry, a beloved mother, grandmother, life partner, and friend. Born in Fort William to Elizabeth (Betty) Manser and John Dunderdale, and predeceased by her dear brother Carl, Terry leaves behind her devoted life partner Bill, her cherished children Kim and Don, and her grandchildren Xander and Logan.
Terry grew up in Winnipeg, Manitoba, spending summers in Gimli, where her family ran a seasonal restaurant. She built a career in the banking industry but was never one to let life be confined to routine. Over thirty years ago, she embarked on an adventure to Sicamous, in the heart of BC’s interior, where she immersed herself in the local community. She had a remarkable gift for theater, bringing countless roles to life, especially with her natural flair for comedy and parody.
A free spirit at heart, Terry and Bill embraced a nomadic lifestyle, summers spent at Montey Lake, BC, and winters in Why, Arizona. She was incredibly creative and made every space her own with her DIY projects; whether it was turning her golf cart into a charming “ladybug”, creating a little garden wonderland, or designing bird baths specially catered to local birds. Her craft projects were legendary, from the intricately designed walking sticks she gifted to every friend, to her “talking sticks,” presented with ceremony and storytelling, which weaved a world of imagination for those lucky enough to receive them.
Terry found joy in life’s simple pleasures—gardening, kayaking, hiking, and exploring the desert, where she discovered desert artifacts, like rose rocks, and was mindful to keep her distance from the wild donkeys. She and Bill shared an adventurous spirit, reveling in the outdoors and creating together a lifetime of laughter and shenanigans in their time together. She approached each day with an appreciation for life’s little wonders. She was kind, generous, and enjoyed a good laugh; often being the instigator of a good-natured practical joke.
After a courageous battle with cancer for over a dozen years, Terry made the choice to leave on her own terms—”with her boots on,” as she said—to embark on her next great adventure. We know she has been welcomed with open arms by the family and friends who loved her in this life. Though her absence leaves a space in our hearts, the memories she created will forever fill it.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Shannon Wiebe, an extraordinary physician and human, as well as Nurse Practitioner Michael Limerick, who ensured Terry left this world with grace and dignity. Special thanks also to the oncology nurses at LWDH for their compassionate care.
May she rest in peace, knowing she was truly loved.