Janet CHAMPION Obituary

CHAMPION, Janet Winnifred (nee Thompson)
1940 - 2024

Janet Winnifred Champion passed away peacefully at North Shore Hospice on December 7, 2024, at the age of 84. A cherished wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Harvey, and is survived by her brother, Robert Thompson (Carol); daughters, Barbara (Martin) Vondruska and Linda (Fergus) Walther; and her five grandchildren, Emily, Nicole, Brendan, Maddy, and Abby.

Born in Vancouver, Janet lived her entire life in North Vancouver. A talented ballet dancer in her youth, she was invited to join the Royal Winnipeg Ballet but chose not to pursue that path. She attended North Vancouver High School, where she earned scholarships to attend UBC, graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Education. Janet began her teaching career in 1960 as a grade 4/5 teacher at Capilano Elementary School. After having her own children, she returned to teaching music and substitute teaching at Highlands Elementary School.

Janet's passion for music was central to her life. She played piano as an accompanist for the junior choir at Highlands United Church, where she was also a member of the senior choir. Beyond her musical talents, Janet loved gardening and created a beautiful space around her home. She enjoyed time spent camping at Cultus Lake and her family vacations to Manning Park and Qualicum, BC.

In her retirement, Janet enjoyed sailing with Harvey and their friends, continuing to nurture her garden, and spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, who were her greatest pride and joy.

She will be lovingly rememberedby all who knew her.