Mrs. Avalon Gertrude Corns

September 1, 1932 - March 10, 2013

Mrs. Avalon Gertrude Corns passed away surrounded by her family on March 10, 2013 at the High River Hospital at the age of 80 years. Avalon is survived by her loving husband Don; her children David (Joan) Larsen, Valerie Larsen, Lynda (Elmer) Larsen, Laurie (Chris) Martel, Cathy Corns, Chris (Jolanta) Corns, Marie (John) Corns, Roger (Peach) Corns and Michael Corns; Grandchildren Carlee, Andre, Joelle, Tessa, Kendra, Dana, Easton, Jack, Tomek, Caleb and Connor as well as her Great-Grandchild Dante. She is also survived by her sister Beverly (Dale) Hari, her brother Gordon Hoeh and many wonderful nieces and nephews. Avalon was predeceased by her son Keith and her Granddaughter Emily. Born to Agnes (Olsson) Hoeh in Calgary, Avalon grew up in High River with her parents Jessie and Alwyn (Tiny) Collier. She graduated from Spitzee School in High River and went on to train in Calgary at the Holy Cross School of Nursing earning her RN in 1954. She had a long and meaningful career as an RN, touching the lives of many. She worked at the Holy Cross Hospital in both the general and pre-term nurseries, also supplementing her employment providing insurance medicals. She then went on to work for many years with the Government of Alberta in an infectious disease clinic. Avalon retired from nursing after rounding out her career in geriatrics working at various nursing homes in Calgary. She will always be remembered for the respect, dignity, kindness, and compassion she offered to those she cared for. Avalon was a dedicated mother and her first priority was always her family. She wed Ken Larsen and raised five wonderful children (Keith, David, Valerie, Lynda, and Laurie) of whom she was incredibly and forever proud. She then went on to marry Don Corns and welcomed five more children into her life, (Cathy, Chris, Roger, Marie and Michael). Amalgamating the values and routines of two families was a rewarding challenge that stretched and strengthened her heart. Having children at home for over 35 years was a true testament to her perseverance which was always softened by her wit and sense of humour. She had many interests and spent her free time gardening, baking and golfing. Some of her most wonderful memories were enjoyed while playing bridge and mah-jong with her many friends. She will be remembered as a fun loving, hard-working, selfless woman with immense strength and faith. She leaves behind so many dear friends who brought much love and joy to her life, and she in turn to theirs. Avalon’s clever wit, energy, determination and ability to overcome adversity will always be an inspiration. Those who knew her are forever blessed. A Prayer Service was held on Wednesday, March 13th at 7:00 p.m. at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church in High River. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday, March 14th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Francis De Sales Catholic Church (206 – 9th Ave. W, High River). In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the High River Handi-Bus Society (mail: PO Box 5976, High River, AB, T1V 1P6). To send condolences and view Avalon’s Tribute Page please visit www.lylereeves.com . Caring for the family is Lyle Reeves Funerals of High River (Craig Snodgrass) 403.652.4242.