Valerie Louise Despins

Valerie Despins passed away on June 27, 2023, due to complications from lymphoma. She was 75 years old.

Valerie was the proud mother of two children, David and Chris. She was a dedicated mom who treasured her children and provided them with support and encouragement throughout their lives. She especially loved her role as grandma to her grandchildren, Keira and Chelsea; providing them with an ample supply of chocolate at every special occasion.

Valerie was born November 1, 1947 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, immigrating to Canada with her parents and older sister at the age of nine. She believed strongly in the value of education and took pride in her role as Counsellor at Humber College. After experiencing  anxiety and mental health challenges Valerie found a new calling, supporting others experiencing mental health issues as a social worker with the Canadian Mental Health Association, and later as a Crisis Support Worker at Saint Elizabeth Health Care.

Valerie's passion for helping others extended well beyond her career. She was instrumental in founding and facilitating the Brampton-based anxiety support group 'Anxiety Empowered,' as well as the group 'Have Your Say!' for seniors living near her home in Waterdown. She also provided personal and business coaching services to her friends and clients through the business she founded, Pathfinder Coaching.

In addition to her family, career, and volunteer activities, Valerie made many lifelong friendships along the way - friendships that she truly treasured, and who will miss her dearly.

To celebrate the life of Valerie Despins, her family invites you to join them for a memorial service on Friday July 7 at 11 am at St John's Dixie Cemetery & Crematorium in Mississauga.  Everyone is welcome to gather in the Willow Room after the service for a light lunch and refreshments.