Victoria Wakefield’s Legacy Story

Mary Victoria Wakefield (born Verch) moved to Abbotsford with her parents and brother Fred in 1913 at the age of 10 when they took up residence on a small farm. She lived in Abbotsford all of her life.

Vicky traveled extensively throughout the world with her husband, Einar and continued to travel after his death well into her 80’s. She always had time for small animals and took in stray cats and rescued Dachshunds. Vicky also loved to garden and was a gourmet cook! Dinner was an elegant affair, where proper dress was worn. Vicky had a great sense of humour and enjoyed her 100th birthday with letters from many dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth.

Her family was known for its community service as well. As a member of the Abbotsford ‘Electra’ Chapter of the Eastern Star, Vicky helped with various fundraising projects over the years which included teas, dinners, bazaars, dances, Robbie Burns dinners, card parties and pub nights. The Chapter’s main work was around cancer charities but they also supported the Heart and Stroke Foundation, BC Guide Dogs, Honour House, scholarships, the Erma Boyce Library, and the Eastern Star Training Awards for Religious Leadership.

In her estate Mrs. Wakefield donated over $235,000 to the Abbotsford Community Foundation to establish the Mary Victoria Wakefield Animal Welfare Fund where the income is used to support local animal welfare agencies. “It’s a wonderful gift to the community, said Debbie Magson, ACF’s Executive Director at the time. “The amount available to be granted out varies from year to year, “ she said. “Giving back to the community by way of caring for animals was a way for Vicky to share her love of animals,” said Magson.

Since the fund was established, it has distributed over $140,000 to various animal welfare organizations including Canadian Animal Rescue & Extended Shelter Society (CARES Cat Shelter), Circle F Horse Rescue Society, Elizabeth’s Wildlife Center Society, Fraser Valley Humane Society, Horse Protection Society of BC, Langley Animal Protection Society, Senior Animals in Need Today Society, and Hug a Bull.