Justine Andrea Kallstrom

It is with deep sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother, daughter, aunty, and friend Justine Andrea Kallstrom. On the morning of Mar 3, 2020 she passed peacefully with her daughter Ajauni at her side, after a long battle with cancer. A true west coast island girl, Justine was born March 24th, 1964 in Port Alberni, a town that was always as much a part of her as her Scandinavian roots. Growing up, she developed an enduring love of the ocean and outdoors, respect and fascination for Holistic and Aboriginal teachings and culture, and early friendships that lasted a lifetime. Justine was predeceased by her mother Eileen Hansen. She is survived by her beloved daughter Ajauni, mentor and father Ferdinand Kallstrom, step mother and confidante Marjorie, sisters Nicole, Simone, and Jeneanne, brother Ture, nieces and nephews, a loving extended family, countless friends, and her beloved cats Kato and Luka. On July 9th, 1988, Justine's most gratifying moment came when she gave birth to Ajauni, her beloved daughter. Of all the things she did in her life, raising such a fine, young woman was her proudest achievement. A single mother, Justine passed along her love of nature, mushroom hunting, and all things creative; from camping at favourite secret spots, to the practice to love anyone from all walks of life. From the moment Ajauni was born, she was alongside her mother for every adventure, whether it be a walk on the beach or forest, or a stroll through a farmers market. There were endless trips all over the island to visit friends and family. Many trips were dedicated to exploration which led to many discoveries off the beaten path. Justine always encouraged Ajauni to push herself to grow her inner light and embrace those around her. It was Justine's belief that Ajauni leads a life of happiness, filled with creativity, diversity, and warmth. Appreciating the beauty in our surroundings and connecting to nature was a practice Justine instilled in Ajauni. Justine had a great fashion sense and built a unique and enviable wardrobe. She inherited her shopping talents from her father, and there was no such thing as a short visit to a thrift shop. Hunting down fascinating and useful objects and furnishings always generated endless conversations with fellow thrifters and visitors to her home. Even her kitchen boasted foodstuffs from a variety of sources, as she was continually scouring flyers and storefronts for the best deals. As she loved to cook, there was always a unique (but still delicious!) dish for others to enjoy alongside her. Justine was always anticipating the holidays as it was her chance to get into the kitchen, alongside her daughter, and prepare countless, sweet-treats from recipes that had been passed down for generations. Justine radiated warmth and authenticity and greeted those she loved with lots of hugs and kisses. Her open heart, megawatt smile and curiosity ensured new friends wherever she went. She "got" the essence of who you were quick, and used her talent for bringing people together to arrange memorable dinners, breakfasts al fresco, and wilder evenings out. Justine was inarguably funny, from her quirky comments to her cheeky flirting. She always had everyone smiling and forever charmed with her sassy remarks. Justine went on countless adventures, whether it was rocking out at a concert at the park, or an ethnic dinner at the local church; Justine was always excited for the next big thing to do. With enthusiasm, she was always on the hunt for a new experience which she encouraged her friends and family to take part in as well. Justine had an encyclopedic knowledge of flora, which led to her instrumental work as the head gardener in the initial foundation gardens at the Aerie Resort in the 1990s. Her own garden was a park-like wonderland, with spots for reading, resting, meditation, and feasting with family, friends and assorted pets. Justine's compassion led to a later career taking care of the elderly and vulnerable with receiving her Registered Care Aid certification. She was adored by her clients and colleagues, many of whom became friends. A third career as a practitioner of alternative therapies, healthful living, and healing was cut short when she was diagnosed with cancer in December 2017. During Justine's life, she was continually educating herself on Holistic healing and finding ways to implement different practices into her day to day life. Justine felt this final career path was her true calling; a dream career that she believed would better herself, but more importantly, those around her. Through her guidance and teachings, her friends and family have embraced many of Justine's beliefs and will continue to leads lives layered with her intentions. Namaste, Justine. We love you, we miss you and you live on in all of us. Chow mein! The family extends thanks to the many doctors, nurses, technicians, and support staff in Victoria and Vancouver who fought for her. Please share memories, leave condolences for the family, and any expressions of love you have for Justine. You may click on "subscribe to this tribute" to receive automatic updates from the tribute and for coming details of the celebration of her life, to be held in August. Flowers gratefully declined, but as to follow Justine's final wishes, donations to Inspire Health are appreciated by clicking on the left menu under donations . An organization that helped her at the beginning and along her journey of cancer.