Vivian Hodge September 15, 1946 - February 14, 2024

It is with immense sorrow that we announce the sudden passing of Vivian Hodge on February 14, 2024 at the Dryden Regional Health Centre in Dryden, Ontario.

She is survived by her three beloved daughters Erin (Justin) Leclerc, Angie (Darrell) Rody, Julie (Cyril) Acres; beloved grandchildren: Taylor, Jayden, Logan, Jacey, Ethan, and Roman; sisters: Irene (Brones) Bielaskie, Pat (Jim) Plant, Joanne (Aldo) Belvedere, Pamela Kidney, and Patricia (Rick) Orwald; and a legion of nieces and nephews, great and greater still – all of which she loved like her own children.

Vivian’s Mother, Victoria, also passed away on Valentine’s Day – in 1975, and a few weeks later her Father, Oscar, passed. She often said he left so soon because of a broken heart. Vivian is also predeceased by her sisters, Yvette and Gloria.

Vivian lost her soulmate and husband of 58 years, Garry, at the end of 2022. It was unmistakable how heartbroken she was without him.

Vivian was born in Iroquois Falls, Ontario – the second last child of a crew of nine. Her first language was French, and she made honourable efforts to speak it long after English became the primary language. She grew up around Timmins, Ontario and it was nearby in Schumacher she met Garry. They were married for 12 years before they became parents. She committed to raising the girls until the youngest approached teenage years.

Vivian was also known as Viv by her many friends. She loved meeting people and making close connections at every opportunity. Though, she’s treasured a handful of close friendships that have lasted 50+ years, to name a few; Birgit, Jill, and Linda. They became so close that they were considered family. You always felt home when going to Viv and Garry’s house. Her outgoing warm nature, the outstanding homemade food, the late-night coffee pots, the music, and so much laughter – all things to expect when visiting.

Viv was passionate about all things culinary, crafty, and community (volunteering). Together with Garry, she was such an involved Grandparent. Known as Nannie, she has had such a loving hand in raising all of her grandchildren, and supporting her daughters in any way she could.

The latter part of Vivian’s life was spent in Northern Alberta. She planned to move back to Dryden with Garry to live out their golden years, and when he passed in Alberta she vowed to “Bring him home”. With the help of her daughters, she made her new home in Dryden in May 2023.