Obituary of Marie Gillen Tabor
Marie passed away in her sleep at home in Vancouver on Oct 28th, 2025 after losing a courageous battle with Cancer. Marie was everyone’s biggest supporter, problem solver, voice of reason, and dear friend to everyone.
Born in Sussex New Brunswick, Marie took pride in being a “Big Sister to David, Arthur, Larry, Bunny, Rose, Gayle, Janet, Pamela, Kent, Dawn, Trina, Peter, and Shawn.
At a very young age Marie displayed her Culinary Skills making her “Famous Doughnuts” at Palmer Murray’s roadside café.
But caring and nurturing people was her calling, so she trained to be a nurse in St Joseph Hospital in Saint John NB. After training she worked at DVA Veteran’s Hospital in Saint John.
Wanting to spread her wings Marie flew across the country to nurse at Vancouver’s Shaughnessy Veterans Hospital. When Shaughnessy closed in 1992 Marie moved to St Paul’s Hospital working in the Emergency, Surgical Daycare, and Palliative Care Units.
As a nurse Marie called herself “Old School” emphasizing patience, empathy, and respect when it comes to helping people when they are most scared and vulnerable.
As a Palliative Care Nurse Marie knew, in addition to the patient she comforted, the friends and family must be cared for as well.
Marie in addition to people was an animal lover. What delighted her was the innocent unconditional love of our furry friends. Marie had a soft spot for Black Cats she felt they were sorely misjudged. Marie also was obsessed with Owls. If she could, she would of have had one as a pet.
Marie is survived by her partner of 42 years Ron Suzuki who loves and misses her.
Marie was predeceased by her parents Merlin Tabor (1999) Vera Seeley (2003) and twin Madeline (1948), brothers Barry (1950) and Bernard {Bunny} (2010)
Marie’s wishes were to be cremated. A Celebration of her life will take place at the grave site at the Hammondvale Cemetery on Tuesday May 12th 2026 at 2 PM. There will be seating for those wanting it. Following the graveside service, there will be a gathering at the Hammond-Jeffery Fire Hall [5865 Rte 111 Hammondvale ] for family and friends.
Please join Ron and Marie’s siblings, David [Barb], Aurther [Janet], Larry {John], Judy, Rose [Bill], Gayle, Janet [Mark], Pam [David], Kent [Krista], Dawn [Kevin], Trina [Ernest], Peter [Lucie], Shawn [MaryAnne} plus uncles, aunts and many nieces and nephews.
Marie’s wished everyone to just be kind to others and cheer on our Health Care Workers!
