July 4, 1949 - July 9, 2024
In loving memory ~
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sonja Maans of Ladysmith on July 9 at the age of 75 at Cowichan Hospice after bravely fighting a short battle with cancer.
Sonja was born in Jakobstad, Finland, and immigrated to Port Alberni at the age of 3 with her parents, Harry and Margit Maans, where she lived until attending Simon Fraser University where she studied architecture and graphic arts. Following a few years working on architectural projects in Edmonton, she spent the next many years as a hotelier with her business partner as owners and operators of several hotels including the Galiano Lodge on Galiano Island, the George Inn in Qualicum Beach, and the Camelot Bed and Breakfast in Victoria. Sonja moved to Ladysmith in the early 90's where she concentrated on creating and selling her artwork, and was often the featured artist at Bayview Framing. Her home was her haven and she embarked on a new renovation project every year. She continued to be an avid world traveller and kept in contact with the friends she met along the way.
Her greatest joys were painting, her home and garden, her many friends and neighbours, her community, and sharing her gourmet cooking skills.
Dogs were the centre of Sonja's life, especially her West Highland White Terriers. She was predeceased by Toby, Mikko, Ben and Emma, and is survived by Fergus and Max Fingal.
Sonja is survived by her cousin Christofer Hagglund (Christel), godchild Eddie Hagglund (Jimmy) and numerous other cousins and friends in Finland. She also leaves behind her cousin Ruth of Vancouver and her lifelong friends from early childhood, Margaret Francis, Karin Legg (Dan) and Wanda Dombrowski (Bruce Whittington), who shared so many wonderful adventures, as well as laughter and tears, with her. She was a "best friend" to so many people.
No service by request. Donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society
