Andrea Deakin (nee Wainwright)
Born 15th April 1933, Died 20th Feb 2022
In loving memory ~
Andrea Deakin passed away in Edmonton, AB, 20th Feb 2022 at Edmonton General Hospital at the age of 88.
Wife of the late Dr. Barry Deakin, loving mother to Ruth Nobes (nee Deakin), Simon Deakin and mother-in-law to David Nobes.
Andrea spent her adult life promoting the importance of children’s literature, particularly written by Canadian authors. She worked as a teacher firstly in the UK and then in Canada after having immigrated in 1959, she later focused on her family. For the remainder of her life she wrote articles for new papers, was a syndicated book reviewer and a regular contributor to the UK journal ACHUKA. On the death of her husband dr. Barry Deakin, in 2000 she started the Deakin Collection in his memory by donating a collection of award-winning children’s books, comprised of over 6,500 titles, to Okanagan College Library in Salmon Arm. Because of its importance, a majority was transferred in 2019, to the UBC Library in Kelowna to form the Kelowna Deakin Collection where the material is loaned across North America. Andrea also started an online newsletter that is now held at the University of Alberta as an ejournal, The Deakin Review of Children’s Literature. She retired at the age of 80.
Andrea was recognized for her efforts, accomplishments and impact by receiving the Claude Aubry Award from IBBY Canada in 2010, and an honorary Doctorate of Letters from Okanagan College in 2004.
Andrea loved to read; often reading up to 10 books at a time stashed around the house with tissues in them to hold her place, no matter how many bookmarks she was given. She devoured titles on a vast range of topics beside her interest in children’s books. She loved to travel and explore Europe and its history. She loved flowers and loved to garden.
A wonderful mother and friend. She was a very caring soul, who touched many people with her energy and passion for life. She will be deeply missed.
Celebration of Life
Wednesday March 9, 2022 2:00PM
Trinity Funeral Home Chapel
10530 116 Street, Edmonton Alberta
Those wishing to view the service via live stream, please use the following link:
https://vimeo.com/684371553/477b215e8d
In memory of Andrea, our Cousin, lovingly referred to as Auntie Andrea
“We had a wonderful aunt, one who never really grew old; her smile was made of sunshine, and her heart was solid gold.”
(The Random Vibez)
Ruth, David and Simon – our families’ hearts are with yours. Our most sincere condolences to you on the loss of your dear Mother.
Andrea was a great help to me when I had my bookstore in Salmon Arm, Elaine’s Books, 25 years ago. She was so knowledgeable about children’s books. We had many lively conversations.
Love is the reason we miss someone. We mourn them and we keep them in our hearts forever.
Auntie Andrea will always be with each and everyone of us.
Her laughter, her wisdom and her thoughtfulness are gifts of love to each of us, that are ours to keep.
I first knew Andrea as my English teacher in Grade 11. Later, we worked together on the Children’s Literature Roundtable in Salmon Arm. Her vast knowledge of literature was exceeded only by her joy in sharing it with others. She will be missed, and she will be fondly remembered.
I always enjoyed my chats with Andrea at the pharmacy.She was interesting,full of life and energy. My family were recipients of some lovely children’s books . I thought very highly of both Andrea and Barry . Condolences to Ruth,David and Simon. I often remembered her and hoped she was well after leaving Salmon Arm. Wishing you all peace.
It saddened me to hear of the passing of Andrea. I met Andrea at my Shop in Salmon Arm many years ago. She would come in regularly and we instantly would have wonderful conversations. She talked often of her children and I was blessed to meet Ruth. When the two would come in together it was a double delight. I send my sincere condolences to the family and an extra hug goes to Ruth as I know as a daughter it’s difficult losing your mom. My blessings to Ruth, David and Simon
Sincere condolences to you, Ruth and Simon. Your mother was a fine lady. I will always remember her from my time as her and Barry’s accountant in Salmon Arm. What an honour to have known her.