CARTER, Olga Maria (nee Sahaydak) February 28, 1918 – January 9, 2013 If Olga was writing this, it would be a poem or a story. This is a short story about a long life. Olga was a storyteller, writer, collector, caregiver, a charmer who approached life with a quirky sense of humor and wonder. Olga was a presence you couldn't ignore, tall, warm, strong, vocal and fashionable, rarely without earrings and lipstick. Olga was born in Spuzzum, BC (just beyond Hope), where her father John worked building the CPR. Her parents John and Gladys emigrated from the Ukraine. They eventually moved to Vancouver where Olga attended John Oliver School. It was here Olga met her childhood sweet heart Billy. They married when they were both 19, on July 31, 1937. Married life began in a home on 7th avenue, which Olga called 7th heaven, building many happy memories. The next chapter saw Olga and Bill moving to a logging camp in Englewood, BC (Camp A). Olga enjoyed the close knit community of camp life. First daughter Judy was born in 1944, followed by her sister Barbara 3 years later. Barbara it was learned, after many consultations and tests, had a developmental disability. The family moved to Burnaby to be closer to any resources available for Barbara. Olga and Bill were focused on the wellbeing of their family and extended their warmth to a diverse circle of friends. Olga was an avid collector, with her treasures spilling over into the basement, she often said her house was like an iceberg, 2/3rds underground! Olga was an active volunteer for L'Arche, her church, and other organizations. She possessed a great spirit, and was a strong, creative woman known for her story telling abilities and "Bring it On" zest for life. She leaves behind many who will share "Olga stories" and hold her memory in their hearts. Her daughters, Judy Carter-Smith and Barbara Carter will love her forever. Olga is predeceased by the love of her life, husband Bill, her brother Jack Sahaydak, sister-in- law Mary Davis, and parents John and Gladys. Olga spent the last nine years in the Fairhaven United Church Home, Burnaby. Profound gratitude is extended to the caregivers who supported her with love through the journey of Alzheimers. A celebration of her 94 years of life will be held in the Mountainview Room, Fairhaven United Church Home, 7557 Sussex Avenue, Burnaby, BC. Friday, January 25, at 1 p.m. Donations to L'Arche Greater Vancouver, serving people with developmental disabilities, are gratefully accepted-7401 Sussex Avenue, Burnaby, BC V5J 3V6.