In loving memory ~

It is with deep sadness that the family of Audrey Gail Clare announce her sudden passing on July 7, 2026, at St. Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, British Columbia.

In the days leading up to her passing, Audrey was surrounded by the love and comfort of family members Sandra, Gisele, and Debbie. As she passed, she was surrounded by the love of Steve, her husband of 58 years, Shauna, her treasured daughter, and her dear friend, Linda Priestley.

Born in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, in 1948, Audrey was raised in Christopher Lake alongside her five siblings. At just 13 years old, she began her first job at Ed’s Chicken Inn. More than simply her first employment, it became her first opportunity to meet and connect with many people—a gift for conversation and friendship that remained one of her defining qualities throughout her life.

In 1968 at age 18, Audrey married her childhood sweetheart, Steve Clare. They began their married life in Regina, Saskatchewan, where Audrey worked for SaskTel. In 1970, Audrey and Steve moved to Whitehorse, Yukon, with their young daughter, Shauna, so Steve could pursue a career in the trucking industry.

While raising Shauna, Audrey studied bookkeeping at Yukon College. She used those skills to help with Steve’s business, Audee Transport. In 1982 she began working at Northern Lights Optical. There, Audrey became known for her warm personality and exceptional customer service. She also formed lifelong friendships with Trusca and Ron Gorell, who became like family.

In 1992, Audrey and Steve purchased Trails North. Whether she was greeting customers, visiting with friends, or welcoming newcomers, Audrey’s natural ability to make people feel at home became one of the hallmarks of the business. She truly was the social butterfly everyone knew and loved.

After Audrey and Steve sold Trails North in 2004, Audrey briefly worked at Fred’s Plumbing and Heating before settling into retirement.

Throughout the years, Audrey participated in various sports leagues, including curling and bowling. She and Steve spent many winters in Arizona escaping the cold but returned home to the Yukon each summer to enjoy camping in their motorhome. Audrey loved boating and fishing and never understood why anyone would bother to fish if they planned to release the fish afterward.

Audrey enjoyed berry picking and making jam, pickles, cinnamon buns, and rhubarb pie. Known for her generosity, wonderful sense of humour, and incredible cooking, she happily shared her baking and preserves with family, friends, and neighbours.

She also enjoyed quieter moments completing crossword and jigsaw puzzles, reading true crime novels, and watching curling on television.

Perhaps Audrey’s greatest joy was being a grandmother. She treasured the many hours she spent baking, cooking, and making memories with her cherished grandchild, Jordan.

Audrey loved life. She loved people, celebrations, and spending time with her many friends. Her laughter came easily and often, filling homes, campsites, and gatherings with warmth and joy. She treasured her friendships and had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome.

Audrey was predeceased by her parents, Harry and Minnie Paterson, and by her siblings Earl, Harvey, and Arnold. She is lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, Steve; her beloved daughter, Shauna (Drew); her cherished grandchild, Jordan (Cedar); her incomparable dog, Bodacious and her grand-dog, Sammie; her sister Sandra (Jules) and brother, Howard; and her many nieces and nephews.

Audrey’s kindness, generosity, infectious laughter, and love of life touched countless people.

She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on September 5th from 2 to 5 PM at the Royal Canadian Legion on 503 Steele St.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choice.

• Date : 2026-07-06
• Location : Vancouver, British Columbia