It is with great sorrow that the family of Vivian Hansberry, of Kamloops, announces her passing on November 28, 2020 at Royal Inland Hospital at the age of 88.
She is survived by her companion John, nephew Steve (Roccio), Richard (Trudi), David, Donald and a number of great nieces, nephews and many cousins. She was predeceased by her parents Matthew and Marie Anna Swanston, brother Donald and sister Roberta. Those who knew Vivian knew her to be independent, determined and full of life. She was born in Alberta in 1931 and the family moved to Vancouver BC when she was 10. At age 26, she made her way to Australia where she lived until moving back to Canada in 2009.
Vivian loved to travel and her job as a flight hostess with Qanta’s Airways from 1958 to
1978, certainly gave her many opportunities to see the world and meet many interesting people.
She also loved sports, both as a spectator and a participant. She was an avid skier (she skied downhill at Sun Peaks on her 80th birthday) and enjoyed golf. Her love of sports was combined with her love of travel when, on a number of occasions, she volunteered for PGA tournaments and Olympic Games.
Vivian was fond of her “happy snaps” and has albums full of memories.
Due to current Covid restrictions, no funeral will be held.
Condolences may be sent to the family from
13 Tributes
As you traveled the world during your time on earth now you journey is heavenly bound,
Vivian, You will be missed by our Ravishing Rubies group of the Crown Jewels of Canada.
We all enjoyed your stories of your adventures and travels. Rest in Peace our friend.
I met Vivian at our Kamloops Art Group. I took her home a few times and was delighted to see her work and hear the stories that went with her paintings and photos. I was impressed by her enthusiasm and effort she made to get out with us despite her mobility issues. She was an inspiration and I was happy to know her. I am so very sorry for your loss.
The Kamloops YMCA – YWCA will miss her! She was always so fun to visit with!
Dearest Vivian! You were my favorite client when I was in hairdressing school. I will never forget your generosity and ability to live life to its fullest! You will be greatly missed! My daughter still sleeps with the purple bear blanket you gifted her! Much love to you Viv and John!
I had only known you short while. But I held you close to my heart. I am so sorry to hear this. May you Rest In Peace. And please. Watch over my golf game and shoot me some pointers from time to time. Much love to your family and friends who will miss you dearly.
I had the privilege to fly with Viv 1973-1978 as a Flight Steward at Qantas!
Always a delightful lady to be in the presence of!
Loved by all that flew with her!
Rest in peace knowing you will not be forgotten Viv,
Rocky.
**
Facebook comments from her Qantas workmates:
Marg Phillips
Such terribly sad news. Viv was a truly gentle soul lived life to the fullest. John and I had many happy times together with her.
George Smyth
RIP Lovely Vivian
Trevor Rockliff
A TRUE lady! RIP Vivian.
Annie Oeding
Viv gave us her all…..the original organiser at tennis & skiing. Such sad news. RIP Viv ????
Alan Murrell
I remember you well Viv,so sorry to read this,R I P.
Sue Ritchie
Lovely lady
RIP Viv ????
Vivienne Payne
RIP Viv, always full of life and loads of energy.
Ernie Davidson
So sad to hear this news . Did many trips With Viv a lovely lady.Rip ????
Colin Stephens
Viv in 1984 at the Interline tennis tournament in Texas
May be an image of 2 people, people standing and indoor
Dorrie O’Neill
She was a legend. ????????
Sabrina Ferguson
Oh..and to just learn she passed on my B/day??
Such a privilege to fly with Viv. She was the brightest spark and much loved by her
Qantas colleagues. I was thrilled to share
share Viv’s last trip with her.
Fly High Viv ✈❤✈❤
Great lady to fly with, rip Viv
So sad to learn of the passing of Viv – she was a true Legend! I wish I’d known she was still skiing as we have gone to Sun Peaks annually & love the place. Would have loved to do a few runs with her.
I enjoyed a few trips and a few days away here and there with Viv….loved her.
such a nice person…all the best as she continues flying high and brightly.
with care and love.
From one Canadian to another Viv, you were always a delight to fly with on many trips. Now its time to fly high again so do so proudly knowing you were loved and respected in this life. R.I.P. Viv
An amazing, gorgeous, fun lady…..I did quite a few trips with Vivienne….always a welcoming smile. God bless ❤️❤️