Wendy Absolom

Absolom, Wendy…

The world lost an amazing woman on Saturday, July 22, 2023.  Wendy Joan Absolom was born January 15, 1953 to her loving parents, Ken and Jeanne in Espanola, ON.  Wendy grew up with a love of horses, and at 16 she worked at the Anna Bilini Red & White to raise half the money for her first horse.  Her father came through on his promise of the other half and a lifelong love began.  Her time in the tiny grocery store gave her the experience to get a job at the A&P across the road.  It was here that she met her lifelong best friend, partner in crime, and dedicated sister, Dee Dee.  She was welcomed into their very large family.  The two would play sports together, buy matching cars together, and support each other for over 50 years.  While working at the Pulp and Paper Mill, Wendy’s father met Wendy’s friend and ‘brother’, Al.  Al’s membership in the Absolom family was unquestionable.  He got to borrow Ken’s truck much more than Wendy, he was a rock in Wendy’s life, and he even named Wendy’s Godson after the Absolom family.  

In her 30’s, Wendy trained and became the first woman firefighter in Espanola.  Following in her father’s footsteps, shortly after his passing.  To this day, she has been the only female firefighter in the small town.  

Wendy’s work at the A&P led her to become involved in the Union.  She was a Union Steward, sat on 4 sets of provincial negotiations, and her dedication and commitment secured her a Union Representative job in 1991.  She was assigned a route in the London area where she bought a home.  She, and eventually her mother, settled in the Old South area, leaving beloved Espanola and her lifelong friends.  Wendy’s strength was shown with her ability to navigate a difficult route.  She represented workers in the health care, industrial, hospitality, retail, and food processing industries.  Her strong voice for her members was respected by both the members and management alike.  Her commitment grew as she sat on additional committees, advocated for women, and raised money to help children fighting Leukemia. 

Wendy’s work ethic and dedication to her members had her on the road for countless hours each week.  Even through all of her work commitments, she was often the first to sign up for Union hockey, baseball, paintball, dragon boat, kickboxing, and other sporting events. Despite her busy schedule, Wendy found a partner, Stefan, who has lived with her for the past 20 years.  Stefan has three children, Josh, Rachel and Zach.  Although Wendy had no kids of her own, her generosity was legendary.  She would lavish friends and family members with gifts that were thoughtful and full of love.  And it was an honor to give Wendy gifts because they truly meant something to her.  She kept every card that was ever sent to her, and every token of love that someone showed her.  

Wendy rekindled her love of horses when she retired.  She began volunteering for SARI Therapeutic Riding the year before she retired so that she could be ready to dedicate lots of time with her beloved horses, and the children that they were helping.  A fall off of a horse during her personal riding lessons led to the discovery of breast cancer.  Even through treatments, Wendy still showed up to volunteer at the barn for as long as she was able.  The past few years have presented Wendy with a number of health challenges, but her dear friends have helped carry her through some of the toughest days of her life.  Wendy was a generous, kind, fiercely loyal friend who would give you the white linen shirt right off her back.   Those of us who called her friend were lucky, blessed people.  She fought for the rights of workers, took care of so many, and made sure that we knew we were loved.  If there is a Union in heaven, I can guarantee she is signing people up, while listening to Gord Downie sing songs that filled her soul.  

There will be a private celebration of her life Friday, August 4th in London, ON. For more details, please contact Sara or Julie.  Wendy and her mother will take one last journey back to their beloved Espanola to be laid to rest with her father.  Surrounded by friends and loved ones for always.  

We would like to send a special word of gratitude for the staff at Village of Glendale Crossing.  You all loved Wendy and she loved you.  We cannot thank you enough for your genuine caring hearts.  

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to 

SARI Therapeutic Riding

12659 Medway Rd, Arva, ON 

N0M 1C0

sari.ca

It was a place that meant so much to Wendy, brought her joy, and does wonderful work for children in the London area.

Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com