Avery, J. A. Diane (née Knowles) (Died)

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Josephine Audrey Diane Avery (nee Knowles), on November 29, 2013, at the age of 81. Diane passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family. Diane is survived by her beloved husband of 57 years, Jake, by her daughters, Neville (Keven Wilson), Martha, Andria (Nick Jelinek), her grandchildren Peter, Thomas, James, Jack, William, Josie, and numerous nieces and nephews. Diane was predeceased by her parents, Arthur Neville and Evelyn Knowles and her brother, Arthur Neville Knowles. Diane was born in London, Ontario, and graduated from the University of Western Ontario. A gifted athlete, Diane played varsity basketball and tennis. She was also a competitive rider, figure skater and skating judge. At Western, she met the love of her life, Jake. They enjoyed a lifelong, playful match on and off the golf and tennis courts while raising their three daughters in Toronto, Baie d'Urfé and Oakville. Jake and Diane lived in their 1828 Oakville heritage home for the last 43 years. Diane handcrafted an extremely close family. An incredible mother, who led by example, she was involved in all aspects of home and school. Her hand-smocked dresses were exquisite! She loved to sail and won a trophy or two at the Rondeau/ Erieau regattas. Diane skied at Caledon, played tennis at ORC, golfed with her family at the Toronto Golf Club, and practiced yoga wherever she could roll out her mat. She adored her dogs: Duchess, Tache and Poco who rewarded her with undivided loyalty. Her imagination and sprite-like humour were exercised in painting classes, conversation-filled lunches, and calls with treasured friends. Beauty soothed Diane's soul-be it in the surroundings she created inside her gracious homes and glorious gardens, or in the water and skies of Rondeau Bay. Her joy in summers at "the 'Eau" was founded early in times shared with her brother, parents and sailing buddies. The cottage was always open to her dearly loved niece and nephews: Lisa, Jim, Peter and Neville and their partners Geoff, Iris, Linda and Charlotte. "Holly" was a formidable matriarch, especially to her sons-in-law Keven and Nick, who earned her deep love and respect. Her grandchildren were most precious to her and they know that "Nanny" will always be in their corner. Everyone who met Diane felt their lives imbued with a bit more grace. She cared deeply for those around her, seeing the richness in everyone, so that her everyday interactions were personal and heartfelt. The family is extraordinarily grateful for the loving care they received from Darlene, Patti and Dr. McConachie at the OTMH Cardiac Clinic as well as the RTs Dana and Stacey. A private family service will be held this week followed by a celebration of life in June. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Dog Guides of Canada (dogguides.com). Diane's artwork has appeared in juried shows and may be seen at dianeknowlesavery@blogspot.com, Condolences to www.morleybedford.ca.