South Delta lost an ardent and committed volunteer this week. Just a few days shy of her 90th birthday, Ladner resident Joan High died suddenly on Monday.
High moved to South Delta 45 years ago. She and husband George High moved to Tsawwassen from Vancouver before settling in Ladner a couple years later.
It was at that time High got involved with the Delta Hospital Auxiliary, said son Bill High. He said his mom was drawn into the cause, which started in an effort to establish a hospital in Delta, by a neighbour and never looked back.
"She never had time to take a full-time job anywhere, she was too busy volunteering," he said with a laugh.
High was active within the auxiliary, taking on many roles, including being the first volunteer service coordinator. She sat on the auxiliary executive and served as president in 1983/84. In the last 10 years, she acted as the society's historian and was honoured with a lifetime membership in 2009.
Last summer, she was recognized for her commitment to volunteerism and the auxiliary with a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for meritorious service.
She continued volunteering up until her death, Bill said.
High was predeceased by her husband of 55 years and is survived by her two children, Bill (Daralyn) and Marilyn, two grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
A memorial service is scheduled for tomorrow, which would have been High's 90th birthday, at 2 p.m. at Ladner United Church.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Delta Hospital Auxiliary can be made in memory of Joan High.
