Carol Wilbur passed away on October 16, 2026, at the age of 77.
Born in Vancouver, British Columbia, Carol spent most of her childhood near Nelson in the beautiful Kootenay region. A good student, she took great pride in her years as a lifeguard and swimming instructor on Kootenay Lake. Her commitment to helping others was evident even then, as she once saved a man from drowning in the lake.
In 1968, Carol married Jack, and together they raised their three children, Brad, Brenda, and Cheri. Community-minded and dedicated to making a difference, she served as a Public School Trustee before the family moved to Burns Lake in 1978.
During the ten years the family lived in Burns Lake, Carol remained active in her community as a leader with both Brownies and Girl Guides. She also worked full-time in a grocery store while raising her children, helping manage the family farm, and tending a large vegetable garden. She was a hardworking woman who balanced many responsibilities and gave generously of her time.
The family returned to Nelson in 1989, marking the beginning of a challenging chapter in Carol's life. With time and the support of the AA community, she found new ways to navigate life and move forward. She spent approximately ten years working in banking before health concerns led her to leave the workforce around 1998.
In 2006, Carol moved to Lethbridge, Alberta, to be closer to Brenda and Cheri. Brad later joined them, and he and Carol shared a home in Coaldale for approximately the last fifteen years of her life.
One of Carol's greatest joys was being a grandmother. She loved her five grandchildren dearly: James and Courtney, children of Brad; Gus, son of Brenda; and Brittni and Sammi, daughters of Cheri. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart and were an important part of her life.
Carol was predeceased by her parents, Angus and Evelyn, and is survived by her three children, Brad, Brenda, and Cheri; her beloved grandchildren, James, Courtney, Gus, Brittni, and Sammi; and her brothers, Dave and Greg.
Carol's life took her from Vancouver to the Kootenays, north to Burns Lake, back to Nelson, and eventually to southern Alberta. Through its many chapters, she experienced accomplishments, challenges, and new beginnings. She will be remembered for her dedication to her family, her involvement in her communities, her perseverance, and the love she held for her children and grandchildren.
Carol will be deeply missed by her family and all those who knew and loved her. Her memory will live on through the family she cherished and the many lives she touched.
A service to honour Carol's life will be held at a later date.