Passed away peacefully at Golden Birches Terrace, Blind River on April 19th, 2018 at the age of 102. Beloved wife of the late Alfred Astles for 54 years, loving mother of Peter Astles (Anne), Paul Astles (Petronella), the late Diane Haney (Hugh) and the late Bonnie Astles. Grandmother to Neil, Chris (Suzanne), Pennie ( Brian), Kim (Ken), Shawn (Ciara) and Todd (Denise) also Great Grandmother to ten.

Grace was born on November 30th, 1915 in Chatham Ontario, the youngest of 13 children, when the
population of Canada had not yet hit eight million, and the country was not unified on which side of the road cars should drive on!
Grace married Alfred in 1935 (co-incidentally also the youngest of 13 children) and they raised their four children on a farm in Denfield, just outside of London. In 1971 they moved to Toronto, where Grace went back to school to become a Registered Nursing Assistant, a career move that suited her practical, yet caring nature well. Upon Alf’s retirement, they moved to a retirement community in Barrie, enjoying summers in Canada with family, and winters in Zephyrhills Florida. Alf passed away in 1988 and Grace found solace in her many friends at Sandy Cove Acres, exploring local theatre, restaurants and even trips to the casino. At the age of 85, it was time for another chapter in her life, and she moved to Appleby Place retirement home in Burlington and found a spiritual home at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church. Grace participated fully in activities at Appleby Place, even running for President of the Residents Council. She had a faithful companion in her sweet cat Keiva, who was never far from Grace’s side, as she read contentedly in her room. As her medical needs increased, Grace moved to Park Avenue Assisted Living, and then to Creek Way Long Term Care, where she celebrated her 100th birthday in grand style with a gathering of friends and family. Her last move was to Golden Birches Terrace in the town of Blind River where her two sons reside.

Grace will be greatly missed by all her family, and at the large gatherings of Sambells at their family reunions. However, she will live on in our memories and in the beautiful quilts she made for her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

A celebration of a life well lived will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 12th, 2018 at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, 662 Guelph Line, Burlington, followed by a reception in the Parish Hall. Memorial donations to St Christopher’s Church or the charity of your choice would be appreciated.