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August 28, 2022
After a short time in hospital Nancy Lea Drinkwater (Malm) passed away Sunday, August 28th, surrounded by her family. Nancy was predeceased by her father Edward, mother Velma, brother Howard and sisters Irma, Verna and Grace. Nancy leaves behind her husband Ron, sons Cal (Laurette), Ian (Debby), grandchildren Nicole, Evan and Alex, sister Marie and many close relatives.
In 1936 Nancy was born into humble family surroundings at Roe Lake, BC. Throughout her life Nancy remained a Cariboo girl at heart and regularly returned to spend time with her extended family and friends while berry picking, canning and ice fishing.
When in her teens Nancy moved to Kamloops for further schooling and work. There she met and married Ron in 1956. Their wonderful marriage spanned 66 years.
Through the 60's and 70's Nancy was central to her family homelife. As her boys grew older she restarted her career to become assistant manager of Grassie Jewellers in Kamloops.
Nancy and Ron made a final move to Victoria in the early 80's where she traded work life for leisure and grandparenting. She and Ron loved their time on their converted tugboat named the Nan Lea. Year-round they were active in the waters around Sidney. They were happiest when the lines were in the water and the crab pot was boiling, often sharing their catch with lucky family members.
Nancy loved games and the challenge of competition. She was a great badminton player in her early years and was an active member of the Canadian Pacific Lawn Bowling Club. Her name can be found on several club trophies. She was good at bocci, a crack shot pool player and always up for a game of crib or a trip to the casino.
Nancy was a fine cook and specialized in baking and candy making. Most visits involved a recently made treat to share and take away. She always called them a disaster but we can tell you otherwise.
With Nancy there were always laughs, good conversation with a glass of wine and the odd unfiltered comment to keep it interesting. She had an easy manner and a light hearted take on life. She collected friends wherever she went.
Safe journey to a wonderful woman, wife, mom, sister, gran, aunt, great-aunt, mother-in-law and friend. We miss her keen mind and lively spirit.
At Nancy's request, no service will be held. Any memorial donations may be made to the BC Cancer Foundation.



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