May 9, 1923 - March 11, 2020
In Memoriam ~
"Sadly missed along life's way, quietly remembered every day. No longer in our life to share, but in our hearts, you're always there."
Theresa Loretta was born in Hamilton, Ontario. She was the second of eight children born to Julia and William Thurston.
Raised during the Great Depression and World War II Theresa, at the age of 19, joined the Royal Canadian Air Force where she proudly served for five years. Her first deployment was during war time and her second was during the cold war where she was stationed in Whitehorse, Yukon as a wireless radio operator.
In January of 1953, Theresa married John Zaccardi of Italian descent.
Together they had four children. Widowed in 1958, just one day after the birth of her fourth child, Theresa valiantly raised her children alone until her second marriage to Jack Reynolds in 1970.
Theresa had many jobs and interests throughout her life. She was a secretary with Stelco Steel, membership secretary for the Bruce Trail Association, and in retirement worked as a librarian. After working most of her life Mum found it difficult to sit still.
With a heart condition and arthritis, at the age of 80, she was determined to keep active so off she went to work part time for Kentucky Fried Chicken doing light duties. She found her young co-workers quite entertaining and she quickly became their confidant. All the proceeds from that job went to her grandson so he could make repairs on his car.
Some of her many hobbies and talents included knitting, oil painting, sketching, gardening, league bowling into her 80's, crosswords, bridge, walking, a lifelong love of reading, and a loyal fan of the Toronto Blue Jays.
Theresa lived her last seven years in Bella Coola where she was greatly loved. She loved the beauty of the Valley and felt a strong sense of belonging. Mum is greatly missed and lovingly remembered for her hardworking and giving spirit, strength and courage during adversity, love of nature and life, and unwavering devotion to her children.
Theresa is predeceased by her husband Jack; brother's Frank, Jeff, Tom, and George; her sister Margaret, and granddaughter Pauline Claire.
She is survived by her four children: Paul (Judy), Mary (Michel), Diane (Doug), and John (Betty); adopted children Dan (Maria) and Karen; four grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.
Mum's Motto: "One Day at a Time"