Tribute

November 2, 1932 – February 5, 2026

Our Mom passed away peacefully at Berwick House Retirement Home in Victoria, British Columbia at 93 years old.
Eileen deeply enjoyed daily walks and writing her memoir. She followed world events closely, dedicated to her lifelong commitment to environmental and social justice activism.

She will be greatly missed by the wonderful staff at Berwick House and by the many friends she made there, whose companionship meant so much to her. As a family, we extend our heartfelt thanks to her dedicated healthcare team, who supported her with compassion through heart and knee challenges in recent years.

Eileen was predeceased by her beloved husband Gus, her partner of nearly 49 years, as well as her sisters Viola, Reta, and Joyce, and her brother Alfred.

She is lovingly remembered by her three children, Alma Goodwin (John), Kevin Wttewaall (Soraya), and Coreen Cherry (David); six grandchildren, Jenaveve Goodwin (Eric), Katelynn Pederson (Richard), Alex Goodwin, Noah Wttewaall-Arteaga, Brian Cherry (Jenna), and Analise Cherry; and her great-grandson, Aries Goodwin.

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Eileen later moved to British Columbia with her family. Teaching and life long learning was central to her life. She began her career in the 1950s, teaching in both northern and southern British Columbia and taught Art through the 1970s and 1980s in Kamloops. After retiring, Eileen and Gus taught abroad—three years in Zambia and two years in China.

Eileen held a Master of Art Education and taught art. She loved to paint and play the piano, and she carried creativity into every aspect of her life. Together, she and Gus built their home on Salt Spring Island, stone by stone and plank by plank. She was especially proud of their passive solar home, nestled at the edge of a forested cliff, reflecting her deep respect for the natural world.

Eileen cherished her friends on Salt Spring Island and the many conversations they shared about environmental protection, social justice, and the well-being of humanity. She worked tirelessly for causes she believed in and deeply appreciated the support and community of those who stood alongside her over the years.

A memorial service celebrating Eileen’s life will be held at Broad View United Church in Victoria on Monday, February 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

A family interment will follow on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the Salt Spring Island Natural Cemetery.