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Susan Benoit (née Scofield, formerly Carmichael)

June 17, 2022

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October 8, 1944 - June 17, 2022
In loving memory ~
On the 17th of June, Susan Benoit (née Scofield, formerly Carmichael) stepped into the next chapter of a life well lived, surrounded by those who loved her. Sue was multi-faceted and in the very best meaning of that expression; she was a rare gem and with these carefully chosen words we honour her and—of course—by using correct grammar.
To understand her life means to know the value of a hard day's work, a good joke, a firm but gentle correction, a note well played, and a hand generously extended. She did not need anything extra to wring enjoyment or understanding out of a moment, always subtly conscious of her humanity and cheerfully playing the dealt cards, reflecting deeply when she felt she got it wrong.
She served professionally in multiple capacities impacting many lives during her nearly 30 years' service at Malaspina College, now Vancouver Island University, culminating as Associate Dean of the Faculty of Trades and Applied Technology. Sue was known for extending opportunities to all and often going the extra mile for students in need. She was a hard-working volunteer with the North Oyster and Area Historical Society (NOAHS), steadfast in her responsibilities as Vice President of the Board of Directors. She also loved time spent at The Lodge on 4th playing the accordion and telling jokes, bringing hours of enjoyment to our treasured elderly.
You cannot fully comprehend diplomacy until you see how skillfully she and loving husband Jim blended a family of 11 children. She deeply loved Alison (Todd), Glynis (Aaron), Marcel (Diane), Jean Paul (Stacey), Monique (Jon), Michelle (Doug), Simone, Renée, Louis (Dana), Sue (Pat), and Elise' (Emmett), her 25 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She was adept in reading a room and understanding her place in it, never needing to be the loudest voice but without fail, partaking enthusiastically. She knew the satisfaction of working hard, especially as a team, always managing to acknowledge others' contributions. With the work finally done, she would wipe her brow, smile, then attack yet another puzzle or with book in hand, fall asleep beside her husband Jim with a sense of wonder for the next day.
Sue looked forward to a reunion with her parents Bob and Audrey Scofield and so many others that preceded her. To those of us she leaves behind - she'll be waiting on that distant, golden shore with fresh bread, a new joke, and a readiness to proofread the next paper. Until that day, she serves as a shining example to us all of how life's journey can be taken with dignity and style.
A celebration of her life will be announced at a later time and date.