What started with writing my Mom’s obituary (please see below) evolved into this memorial website. Her vibrant personality and the person she was called for more than one paragraph. This website is a place where people can come when they miss her, to see photos, listen to music and share stories or memories.
With Love & Sunshine,
Sarah
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
It is with great sadness that the family of Glenda Marleen Corker announce her passing after a brief battle with cancer on Saturday, December 6th, 2020 at the age of 72 years in Victoria, B.C. Glenda is lovingly remembered, by her daughter Sarah and her son-in-law Rainbow Williams.Glenda, affectionately known as “GG” will also be adoringly remembered by her three grandchildren Zayden, Auley Mae and Laurelle. Despite choosing to venture down different paths in life after the birth of Sarah, Terry Williams a loving support in her life, carries her memory and deeply shares in the loss. She will be forever remembered by her aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. Glenda was predeceased by her father Ralph Corker, her mother Ina Corker (Sutherland) and her brother Gary Corker.
Born on February 4, 1948, Glenda was proud to be a “Saskatchewan Farm Girl” growing up on her family’s farm near Maidstone, Saskatchewan. Her many adventures in life carried her from Edmonton to Vancouver and then Victoria.Those that knew her well also knew they could find her enjoying Mesa, Arizona’s sunshine during the winter where she connected with many family and friends.
Throughout Glenda’s life she experienced many accomplishments. Filling her heart the most, was being a mother to her daughter and in turn, a grandmother to her grandbabies. In addition to these great loves, she was a successful business partner running Mount Whistler Lodge, a respected Realtor in Edmonton and a well-known personality in the area of Advertising in Vancouver. Glenda had an enormous amount of passion for the arts and was blessed with creativity. She created her own jewelry line, and both participated in and enjoyed many craft fairs and markets.
Glenda’s passion for life was obvious. It could be seen in the live music events she’d host at the lodge and the intimate gatherings she held in her home. Her love and attention for those she cared for would shine though in her thoughtful gifts, home cooked meals and chocolatey desserts. GG’s special touch has been passed on to her grandchildren through the time she spent with them baking, making delicious soups and enjoying the beauty of nature alongside of them at their home in Spring Lake, Alberta.
As we remember and honor Glenda together, let’s channel her beautiful energy. Please reach out to help those around you, share positivity, give yourself a huge hug, believe in the power of a lucky rock and wear a fun hat!
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, a Celebration of Life has not yet been planned.
With Love & Sunshine,
Sarah
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
It is with great sadness that the family of Glenda Marleen Corker announce her passing after a brief battle with cancer on Saturday, December 6th, 2020 at the age of 72 years in Victoria, B.C. Glenda is lovingly remembered, by her daughter Sarah and her son-in-law Rainbow Williams.Glenda, affectionately known as “GG” will also be adoringly remembered by her three grandchildren Zayden, Auley Mae and Laurelle. Despite choosing to venture down different paths in life after the birth of Sarah, Terry Williams a loving support in her life, carries her memory and deeply shares in the loss. She will be forever remembered by her aunts, uncles, cousins and dear friends. Glenda was predeceased by her father Ralph Corker, her mother Ina Corker (Sutherland) and her brother Gary Corker.
Born on February 4, 1948, Glenda was proud to be a “Saskatchewan Farm Girl” growing up on her family’s farm near Maidstone, Saskatchewan. Her many adventures in life carried her from Edmonton to Vancouver and then Victoria.Those that knew her well also knew they could find her enjoying Mesa, Arizona’s sunshine during the winter where she connected with many family and friends.
Throughout Glenda’s life she experienced many accomplishments. Filling her heart the most, was being a mother to her daughter and in turn, a grandmother to her grandbabies. In addition to these great loves, she was a successful business partner running Mount Whistler Lodge, a respected Realtor in Edmonton and a well-known personality in the area of Advertising in Vancouver. Glenda had an enormous amount of passion for the arts and was blessed with creativity. She created her own jewelry line, and both participated in and enjoyed many craft fairs and markets.
Glenda’s passion for life was obvious. It could be seen in the live music events she’d host at the lodge and the intimate gatherings she held in her home. Her love and attention for those she cared for would shine though in her thoughtful gifts, home cooked meals and chocolatey desserts. GG’s special touch has been passed on to her grandchildren through the time she spent with them baking, making delicious soups and enjoying the beauty of nature alongside of them at their home in Spring Lake, Alberta.
As we remember and honor Glenda together, let’s channel her beautiful energy. Please reach out to help those around you, share positivity, give yourself a huge hug, believe in the power of a lucky rock and wear a fun hat!
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, a Celebration of Life has not yet been planned.
I have known Glenda pretty much all my life. Her Mom, Ina, and my Mom, Joan, were great friends so I would see Glenda occasionally when our Moms visited each other. I remember her as "the girl with the horse".
At one point, Glenda was my babysitter. Once, when my parents returned home with a gift for me, I apparently wasn't as appreciative as I should have been. I can't even remember what the gift was but I do remember that Glenda told me I was a spoiled brat. Her comment has stayed with me and I think that I became more grateful person thanks to Glenda giving me a little "boot in the behind".
Glenda inspired me to escape the expected in life, to travel and to experience what the world had to offer. After she and Terry married, they spent months traveling around Europe and when I heard of their adventures I was absolutely hooked and, in later years, set out to see as much of the world as I could, just like her.
When I graduated high school, Glenda invited me to stay with her and Terry in Edmonton so that I could look for a job and work for a while before I decided what I really wanted to do in life. When I moved on and began a career, we stayed in touch mostly at Christmas and on birthdays. But it was when I visited with her in Mesa that we became especially close. Every morning at 7 a.m., Glenda served coffee and we hugged, visited, discussed current events and solved many of the world's problems. I will miss those mornings.
Such great memories. Glenda was a truly generous person with a shining spirit. I will think of her whenever I see a butterfly.
At one point, Glenda was my babysitter. Once, when my parents returned home with a gift for me, I apparently wasn't as appreciative as I should have been. I can't even remember what the gift was but I do remember that Glenda told me I was a spoiled brat. Her comment has stayed with me and I think that I became more grateful person thanks to Glenda giving me a little "boot in the behind".
Glenda inspired me to escape the expected in life, to travel and to experience what the world had to offer. After she and Terry married, they spent months traveling around Europe and when I heard of their adventures I was absolutely hooked and, in later years, set out to see as much of the world as I could, just like her.
When I graduated high school, Glenda invited me to stay with her and Terry in Edmonton so that I could look for a job and work for a while before I decided what I really wanted to do in life. When I moved on and began a career, we stayed in touch mostly at Christmas and on birthdays. But it was when I visited with her in Mesa that we became especially close. Every morning at 7 a.m., Glenda served coffee and we hugged, visited, discussed current events and solved many of the world's problems. I will miss those mornings.
Such great memories. Glenda was a truly generous person with a shining spirit. I will think of her whenever I see a butterfly.
Glenda and I lived in the same building a floor apart for five years. She was here much longer than I. We had been acquainted but didn’t become friends until last July. We had many great “happy hours” together drinking tequila while sitting on her deck or watching music videos. We shared good conversation and lots of laughs. Glenda totally loved my little dog Karma. She gave her Reiki treatments which the dog just loved. I miss Glenda very much. She was the sweetest, kindest and most generous person I ever met.
I remember when Glenda was born as I was 10 yrs old, I loved to visit and help with Glenda and later Gary. In the summer I would go and stay for a week or 2. I have been close to my cousins all my life.
When I was married and lived in Edmonton, I invited Glenda to come and stay, and we’d show her Edmonton and take her to the Exhibition. She told me it was one of her most exciting childhood memories.
We’ve had many happy memories in Mesa, always had Christmas together.
She loved her family and was such a caring, loving cousin with a hug for everyone. Everyone has a little shiny rock to bring them luck. I truly miss you Glenda.
When I was married and lived in Edmonton, I invited Glenda to come and stay, and we’d show her Edmonton and take her to the Exhibition. She told me it was one of her most exciting childhood memories.
We’ve had many happy memories in Mesa, always had Christmas together.
She loved her family and was such a caring, loving cousin with a hug for everyone. Everyone has a little shiny rock to bring them luck. I truly miss you Glenda.
Dear G.G
Thank you for all the musical support you have given me. Even though I never fully got into anything you tried yet, thank you for trying many times. Even if I did not continue the instruments, the instruments taught me hand-eye coordination and the beauty of music that could be created by my own hands. Next of all, thank you for all the support and help you have given me in creating my rock collection. Without you, it would not be even a fraction of what it is today.
Also, thank you for all the gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and the other holidays. Thank you for the little traditions that you have created in our family like sending us pyjamas that we would open and put on Christmas eve.
I find it hard that I will never see you again. Thank you for all the great memories that you have given our family and the amazing experiences we have had together. I am glad that you got to have Mama to support you to the next chapter of your life.
I love you so much G.G that I find it hard to put it into words to express to you. I wish that I could say goodbye to you and hug you one last time before you left us in this world and moved on into the next. Thank you for being a loving grandmother, that is more than anyone could ask for.
Love forever and always,
Zayden
Thank you for all the musical support you have given me. Even though I never fully got into anything you tried yet, thank you for trying many times. Even if I did not continue the instruments, the instruments taught me hand-eye coordination and the beauty of music that could be created by my own hands. Next of all, thank you for all the support and help you have given me in creating my rock collection. Without you, it would not be even a fraction of what it is today.
Also, thank you for all the gifts for Christmas, birthdays, and the other holidays. Thank you for the little traditions that you have created in our family like sending us pyjamas that we would open and put on Christmas eve.
I find it hard that I will never see you again. Thank you for all the great memories that you have given our family and the amazing experiences we have had together. I am glad that you got to have Mama to support you to the next chapter of your life.
I love you so much G.G that I find it hard to put it into words to express to you. I wish that I could say goodbye to you and hug you one last time before you left us in this world and moved on into the next. Thank you for being a loving grandmother, that is more than anyone could ask for.
Love forever and always,
Zayden
Wow, where to begin. As Glenda's son in law I was blessed with a lot of attention. In the 25 years that I was fortunate enough to know Glenda we grew exceptionally close.
During the first decade of our time together, Sarah and I moved around a lot, and travelled internationally. That never stopped Glenda from sending care packages filled with goodies, love filled treats and letters. Glenda's communication was amazing with us as I would imagine it was with many others visiting this memorial. She was a wealth of knowledge about her family lineage and kept up to date with all her immediate and extended family.
As our family grew, Glenda grew into GG. Probably one of the best grandmothers one could ask for. Her love for our children was amazing, her patience commendable, and generosity outstanding. Our kids know how to bake and jam on various instruments, as well as knowing the importance of a thank you card.
I think one of Glenda's most endearing qualities was her positive approach to life. During many moments of confusion, she would always take my call and help me see a different, positive side to what was happening.
The loss of Glenda in our live has left a large void. Her presence, though a province away, was felt each and every day in our house. It's quite difficult to summarize just how much we miss her. While we have many reminders in our house and hearts it's been so hard to not receive her texts, quirky email forwards and great phone calls. I plan to continue keeping her spirit strong with happy memories, laughter and good music playing.
Glenda; thank you for always being my #1 fan. For keeping me grounded and aware that we're all on this journey of life together.
Love always and ever,
With gratitude,
Rainbow.
"Glenda" has been such a Beautiful Blessing to her family and friends; showing true "Love, Respect and Support"; through humbleness and with Christian Care.
I am missing Glenda's (specially chosen) regular email forwards, that continued to show her GENUINE COMPASSION for others!
I prayed with Glenda, by phone around the 1st of March and was So Blessed to realize "her strong faith in the Creator God and of His Mighty Saving Power for her, and for all of us"!
With Much Love.......Cousin Wilma
I am missing Glenda's (specially chosen) regular email forwards, that continued to show her GENUINE COMPASSION for others!
I prayed with Glenda, by phone around the 1st of March and was So Blessed to realize "her strong faith in the Creator God and of His Mighty Saving Power for her, and for all of us"!
With Much Love.......Cousin Wilma
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
I have known Glenda pretty much all my life. Her Mom, Ina, and my Mom, Joan, were great friends so I would see Glenda occasionally when our Moms visited each other. I remember her as "the girl with the horse".
At one point, Glenda was my babysitter. Once, when my parents returned home with a gift for me, I apparently wasn't as appreciative as I should have been. I can't even remember what the gift was but I do remember that Glenda told me I was a spoiled brat. Her comment has stayed with me and I think that I became more grateful person thanks to Glenda giving me a little "boot in the behind".
Glenda inspired me to escape the expected in life, to travel and to experience what the world had to offer. After she and Terry married, they spent months traveling around Europe and when I heard of their adventures I was absolutely hooked and, in later years, set out to see as much of the world as I could, just like her.
When I graduated high school, Glenda invited me to stay with her and Terry in Edmonton so that I could look for a job and work for a while before I decided what I really wanted to do in life. When I moved on and began a career, we stayed in touch mostly at Christmas and on birthdays. But it was when I visited with her in Mesa that we became especially close. Every morning at 7 a.m., Glenda served coffee and we hugged, visited, discussed current events and solved many of the world's problems. I will miss those mornings.
Such great memories. Glenda was a truly generous person with a shining spirit. I will think of her whenever I see a butterfly.
At one point, Glenda was my babysitter. Once, when my parents returned home with a gift for me, I apparently wasn't as appreciative as I should have been. I can't even remember what the gift was but I do remember that Glenda told me I was a spoiled brat. Her comment has stayed with me and I think that I became more grateful person thanks to Glenda giving me a little "boot in the behind".
Glenda inspired me to escape the expected in life, to travel and to experience what the world had to offer. After she and Terry married, they spent months traveling around Europe and when I heard of their adventures I was absolutely hooked and, in later years, set out to see as much of the world as I could, just like her.
When I graduated high school, Glenda invited me to stay with her and Terry in Edmonton so that I could look for a job and work for a while before I decided what I really wanted to do in life. When I moved on and began a career, we stayed in touch mostly at Christmas and on birthdays. But it was when I visited with her in Mesa that we became especially close. Every morning at 7 a.m., Glenda served coffee and we hugged, visited, discussed current events and solved many of the world's problems. I will miss those mornings.
Such great memories. Glenda was a truly generous person with a shining spirit. I will think of her whenever I see a butterfly.
Glenda and I lived in the same building a floor apart for five years. She was here much longer than I. We had been acquainted but didn’t become friends until last July. We had many great “happy hours” together drinking tequila while sitting on her deck or watching music videos. We shared good conversation and lots of laughs. Glenda totally loved my little dog Karma. She gave her Reiki treatments which the dog just loved. I miss Glenda very much. She was the sweetest, kindest and most generous person I ever met.
I remember when Glenda was born as I was 10 yrs old, I loved to visit and help with Glenda and later Gary. In the summer I would go and stay for a week or 2. I have been close to my cousins all my life.
When I was married and lived in Edmonton, I invited Glenda to come and stay, and we’d show her Edmonton and take her to the Exhibition. She told me it was one of her most exciting childhood memories.
We’ve had many happy memories in Mesa, always had Christmas together.
She loved her family and was such a caring, loving cousin with a hug for everyone. Everyone has a little shiny rock to bring them luck. I truly miss you Glenda.
When I was married and lived in Edmonton, I invited Glenda to come and stay, and we’d show her Edmonton and take her to the Exhibition. She told me it was one of her most exciting childhood memories.
We’ve had many happy memories in Mesa, always had Christmas together.
She loved her family and was such a caring, loving cousin with a hug for everyone. Everyone has a little shiny rock to bring them luck. I truly miss you Glenda.
Gallery
Four generations (Grandma Martin, Grannie Corker, Ralph Corker and Glenda *
Auntie Lois and Glenda as a wee little baby
Glenda as a wee little tot
On the Corker Farm
Playing with the cousins at the farm
her Life
Music
Glenda grew up surrounded by music. Her father, Ralph, was a very talented piano player and loved sharing his music and entertaining others. In the little farm community where they lived, Ralph would play with his band at the weekend dance. Folks from all around would gather for a night out to socialize and dance at the hall.
Music was such a big part of everyone's life back then. When the family got together, there was often a sing along or someone playing an instrument. Glenda learned to play the piano and achieved the highest level of the Royal Conservatory of Music. She was so passionate about music and encouraged this skill to be developed in her grandchildren. So far, Auley Mae seems to have the Corker piano gene, but we will see!
Glenda volunteered for a number of years at the Jazz Festival in Victoria, BC. She loved to be immersed with other people who were also passionate about music. Many of her friends and family are talented musicians and Glenda loved hearing them play and supporting their art.
Her number one, favourite song of all time was, "House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals and if given the opportunity, she would request this song to be played. Under the "gallery" tab, you will see "audio", click it and turn up your volume to hear a few of her favourite songs.
Music was such a big part of everyone's life back then. When the family got together, there was often a sing along or someone playing an instrument. Glenda learned to play the piano and achieved the highest level of the Royal Conservatory of Music. She was so passionate about music and encouraged this skill to be developed in her grandchildren. So far, Auley Mae seems to have the Corker piano gene, but we will see!
Glenda volunteered for a number of years at the Jazz Festival in Victoria, BC. She loved to be immersed with other people who were also passionate about music. Many of her friends and family are talented musicians and Glenda loved hearing them play and supporting their art.
Her number one, favourite song of all time was, "House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals and if given the opportunity, she would request this song to be played. Under the "gallery" tab, you will see "audio", click it and turn up your volume to hear a few of her favourite songs.
Golden Years
The past 7 years were spent wintering in Mesa, AZ where Glenda truly had the time of her life. She connected with various family that went south for the winter and made some amazing friends that quickly became very close to her. Glenda loved the social time in Mesa, gathering for cocktail parties, playing cards, listening to live music, rock hounding and exploring the surrounding areas on the hunt for treasures. She was very grateful for the time she spent there and the people she met.
Working Years
Glenda had many accomplishments and vibrant careers in her life. After high school, she moved to Edmonton and completed an office administrative program where she found a zest for business.
With her husband Terry, they purchased ran Mount Whistler Lodge in BC. Glenda managed the books as well as the kitchen and serving staff. Her parents, Ralph and Ina, came to join the fun and worked alongside them in the kitchen and organizing live music each weekend. Her brother, Gary and sister-in-law, Olga also spent some time with them in Whistler.
Glenda was also a very successful Realtor for many years in Edmonton. She had a natural talent for selling homes and helping buyers find their dream home.
In Vancouver, she went on to pursue advertising. She loved the arts and was very creative. Glenda created her own jewelry line and participated in many artist craft fairs and markets.
With her husband Terry, they purchased ran Mount Whistler Lodge in BC. Glenda managed the books as well as the kitchen and serving staff. Her parents, Ralph and Ina, came to join the fun and worked alongside them in the kitchen and organizing live music each weekend. Her brother, Gary and sister-in-law, Olga also spent some time with them in Whistler.
Glenda was also a very successful Realtor for many years in Edmonton. She had a natural talent for selling homes and helping buyers find their dream home.
In Vancouver, she went on to pursue advertising. She loved the arts and was very creative. Glenda created her own jewelry line and participated in many artist craft fairs and markets.
Recent stories
Birthday Reflections
I am celebrating my first birthday without my Mom, definitely missing her a little more and feeling all the feels.
Gratitude, love, sadness, happiness and everything in between.
❤️
3 weeks before Mom passed away, I flew to Victoria to be by her side and help navigate and advocate her journey with doctors, nurses and hospitals.
As difficult as it was to see her in so much discomfort, this time we had together was a gift. We cleared some past pain, we shared stories, indulged in delicious food and listened to music.
A very wise friend encouraged me to ask her various questions (she even wrote me a list). As we played crib or visited, I would ask her these questions. I learned new things about my Mom- like her prize possession is her collection of original artwork and her one regret in life was not going to interior design school at Ryerson University.
The day before she passed, late in the afternoon, not knowing at the time, I asked her my final question:
“What’s the best decision you ever made?”
Her answer, “Having Sarah. I had 23 doctors appointments during my pregnancy because of so many previous miscarriages but I believe in miracles and you came.”
I feel extra lucky to have truly experienced unconditional love and support from my Mom. Through her love-filled, home cooked meals, to her daily check in calls or texts- she loved me and always made sure that I knew it.
❤️
Thank you for always believing in me and teaching me that I can do anything I set my mind to.
Love, Your Little Pumpkin
Beautiful Butterfly
Knowing Glenda for years I have learned a lot; in a sense she is a mentor in my life and my sons as well. So with heavy heart we accepted the tragic outcome... It is truly sad for me and for Dylan, my son, who also knew her for years as a guide and loving spirit.
She is a beautiful butterfly with a big and loving heart. We love and miss her greatly.
Lana and Dylan. (Glenda met my youngest son Aidan as well when he was a baby)