July 29, 1963 - September 3, 2023
In loving memory ~
Tanja Arsenault passed away peacefully, after a lengthy illness, on September 3rd, 2023, at Tofino General Hospital. Tanja was born July 29th, 1963, to Hans and Renate Waschewski. She is survived by her sister Dagmar (Drew) and her beloved son Keegan. Tanja was raised and spent her entire life in Ucluelet. She loved this town and the many friends and acquaintances she made here.
Over the years, Tanja held down a variety of jobs locally: The Crows Nest, Image West, and Windsor Plywood but the one she shone at the most was the Canadian Princess where she became indispensable as the Gift Shop Manager who also ran down to the dock at 1 p.m. to take pictures of the "catch of the day" (photography being her forte). She also rode to the airport each day to welcome new guests and say goodbye to departing guests (many of whom became friends over the years). In addition, the staff were always grateful recipients of freshly baked cakes and cookies straight from Tanja's kitchen. She was an amazing cook and enjoyed the many compliments she received for her baking expertise.
With not having a driver's licence, Tanja walked hundreds of miles throughout Ucluelet during her lifetime. She could often be seen about town talking at length to friends outside the co-op or post office, etc. That was her joy - sharing news and building community connections with locals she had known all her life. She never wanted to be anywhere but Ucluelet.
Tanja loved gardening and was always generous at sharing her plants and flowers with the community, the Historical Society and bringing a spark of beauty to the local assisted-living facility.
We wish to thank the Staff at Tofino General Hospital for their kindness to Tanja during her lengthy stay. We also want to thank Robyn for being a wonderful support and friend to Keegan throughout this difficult time and for being there for Tanja, providing emotional comfort to her in palliative care. You were truly a good friend to her.
No memorial has been scheduled for Tanja at this time. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Tofino General Hospital would be appreciated.