Gisela Cavill
1939-2025
Gisela Cavill, a 22 year resident of Gabriola Island, passed away on 29 May in the Nanaimo Seniors Village from complications due to Alzheimer’s disease. She is survived by her husband Doug and numerous nieces and nephews both in Canada and Germany. Gisela was born in the Black Forest area of Germany in 1939 and had a sister, Helga, and brother, Dieter, who both predeceased her.
Following school and technical training she worked on the nearby Royal Canadian Air Force base as an executive secretary where she met Doug. Gisela emigrated to Canada in 1968 to marry Doug who was at the time stationed with the RCAF in Montreal. Over the next 35 years the two lived and worked on military bases across Canada plus a couple of years in Belgium.
And wherever Gisela lived, someone nearby owned a dog that was in dire need of a walk. She never had a dog of her own stating she didn’t need one as there was always one to borrow. Sometimes more than one. The walks kept Gisela fit and were a way to meet and socialize with people when moving from base to base. Her home on Gabriola became known as Camp Cavill which was frequently occupied by dogs who’s owners were off traveling the world. Gisela was fondly known as “the Cookie Lady” and all coat and jacket pockets were well dusted with dog cookie crumbs. Gisela will be missed by friends and dogs alike. Special thanks to the staff at the Nanaimo Seniors Village who provided a safe and dignified home for Gisela until her passing.
A Celebration of Life is planned for June 18 from 1 – 4pm at Dragons Lodge
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer Society of B.C.
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