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Myriam Benn

August 20, 2010

BENN, (SUSTARSIC) Myriam – Suddenly while vacationing back home from Whistler B.C.  on Friday, August 20th,  2010, Myriam Benn formerly of London  in her 52nd year. Beloved daughter of Stan and Frances Sustarsic.  Loving sister of Robert Sustarsic, and cherished aunt Mimi to Jelena and Emily Sustarsic. Mimi was a giving, selfless, beautiful woman. Her heart always went out to others. She devoted her life to loving and helping the people around her.  She had a passionate affection for coaching, teaching and being with children. This passion fulfilled her life everyday! She will be sadly missed by many.  The funeral service will be held at the Westview Funeral Chapel, 709 Wonderland Road North, on Wednesday, August 25th at 1:00 p.m. with visitation being held one hour prior to the service. Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Myriam are asked to consider the Children’s Wish Foundation.

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Mimi was one of the most amazing women I ever met. I am so saddened by her passing as are my children NyChaya and Taj. Mimi always greeted each and every child with a smile and a hug and managed to make everyone feel so incredibly special. I think she was a real life fairy godmother during her time with us. She was so inspirational in the way she made children feel. My little boy Taj, used to run to her and hug her every time he saw her and she always had time for him, and every other child around. She will be greatly missed.

~ Wendy MacDonald

Gorgeous Girl, I'll miss you so much. Thank you for all your kindness, love and enthusiam you showed to my family over 12 years. It was so clear to me your honest and sincere love you had for your neices, family and all your gymnastics family. Rest in Peace dear girl!!

~ Sandy Belczyk

You were the best coach, I loved you and I have know you since I was 2. I am very sad Love Gabby

~ Gabby Flynn

My strongest memory of Mimi is her leading her group as they paraded onto the floor and hearing her whisper "walk like a gymnast" They were so proud of themselves because she believed in them and they knew they were truly gymnasts! She also had the ability as a teacher to support her students in their skill development and make it so much fun they couldn't wait to go back the next time. We will certainly miss her each time we go to the gym; it won't be the same again. Our sympathies go out to all who knew her and are also feeling a loss at this time. Vicki Swan, Brian and Katie Faerge

~ Vicki Swan, Katie and Brian Faerge

Myriam was an amazing woman who changed the lives of many and inspired so many children and people with her beautiful soul. Whether somebody crossed her path for a short period, or long, she was always kind and happy and I don't recall ever seeing her without a smile. I will never forget her and her grace. Her warm, gentle and loving heart will inspire me to be a greater person in my future and help me to grow as a person to someone I would not know could exist if I had not met her. My deepest sympathy and all the love in the world. Love Cynthia and Laurie.

~ Cynthia Perrett and Laurie Fairbanks

you were a mentor, my coach and a friend. you were loved by the children you coached and you toached and changed there lives . its unfair that you were taken from us and from the future genorations of kids. we shall remember you with love and we will never forget the good you did for whistler gymnastics.i shall remember you as the great coach and friend. thank you mimi for passing on your kwnoledge of coaching to me. love you and miss you rebecca

~ Rebecca flynn

Our family could not believe the sad news. We will miss you, Mimi, your smile, love, and passion to children. My husband and I feel fortunate we had an opportunity to know you through my daughter's gymnastic class. You are amazing person and left such a wonderful memory among us. Akiho, Junichi, Nana and Soskay.

~ Akiho Matsunaga

What a wonderful person and coach to so many! The welcoming and contagious smile, the endless encouragment & praise and the desire to make people happy everyday! Mimi coached all 3 of our girls for over 14 years and everyday of gymnastics was the "best time ever"! We will miss her and think of her often. Best wishes to Mimi's family. Love The Kerr Family.

~ The Kerr Family

I did not know Myriam well, but was extremely saddened to hear of her passing - we worked together on the "Kids CanMove" Gymnastics program, and i know that using her experience and enthusiasm, Myriam got a lot of kids 'moving' in Whistler schools and the surrounding areas. Thank you so much for your contribution to this Myriam - you will be sadly missed. My sympathies to your friends and family.

~ Ruth Saunders

Mimi will always be remembered and her spirit will continue with every handstand, summersault and flip. We were so lucky to have Mimi in our world. Best wishes to Mimi's family. Georgia, Ryder, Kaia, Cindy and Gord Huxtable

~ Huxtable Family

Rob and Family, All of our family will miss Miriam her time was well spent on this earth when ever our our paths crossed she always left me with a sense of acceptance that was always genuine. Our 5yr. old son Ambrose told us after her passing, that Mimi had told him she was sick. Ambrose and all of us were deeply saddened. Ambrose say's he loved Mimi a lot . Thinking of you ! Mike Michelle and Ambrose, Formerly from Pemberton now in Australia

~ Mike, Michelle and Ambrose Vollmer

Dear Rob and Family Mimi has touched the lives of so many families in Whistler and Pemberton. Some of her former students (now teenagers) have spent their weekend gathering photos and videos and putting together a beautiful slide show celebrating Mimi, and they would be honored to give you a copy. Things will not be the same without Mimi here, but we will always remember and appreciate her beautiful spirit.

~ The Budge Family

We are so sad to hear of the news of Mimi's passing and will miss her dearly. She was such a wonderful, loving person and I feel truly blessed to have known her. She coached my daughter in gymnastics and her enthusiam, love, and joy was evident each and every time we entered the gym. My daughter's face would light up whenever she saw Mimi. She had an amazing way of making each child feel treasured, happy, and proud. Thank you Mimi. We will always remember you. Lisa, Andrew, Mhairi and Mika

~ Lisa Smart

It has been stated many times, and rightfully so, that Mimi was a wonderful coach. My girls had the honor of having Mimi as their coach. She was full of life and we will miss her smiling face. I had the pleasure of working with her in the local elementary school where she was a sub. She was eager to help the kids and they took to her very quickly. To her family, we will be praying for you in the weeks and months ahead. Lisa, Ron, Tatiana and Arabella Fogarty

~ Lisa Fogarty

So sorry to hear about this . I will remember Myriam for alot of things ,her generosity and amazing smile, she was very comfortable to be around ,and had a great sense of humour , she will be be missed greatly by everyone that knew her. my family sends our love .Tom ,Victoria, Freyja and Javia Rimmer

~ tom rimmer

Mimi will always be remembered by our family as the Gymnastics coach with an incredible personality. It was obvious from the start, she cared deeply for the children and created such a wonderful learning experience. I am truly saddened she will not be able to show the same to my younger children but at the same time thankful of the impression she made on our eldest. Our thoughts are with your family at this time. Sincerely, the Bedards

~ Liane Bedard

I am so greatful to have coached with Mimi for over ten years. She was a wonderful friend and recently supported me through my first pregnancy and two surgeries. Mimi would always show up with a funny gift and a smile. She had a beautiful way of making children confident. Mimi will be missed by my family, John, Kelly, Katie,Kenzie,and Brandin. Mimi was truly one of a kind and will always be in our hearts.

~ Kerry McArthur

Rob and family, We are so sorry to hear of Myriam's passing. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her, especially the children of Whistler & Pemberton. I hope you can take comfort knowing that she made a difference in so many lives and always lived her life to the fullest. Thinking of you all, Jenna, Guy, Hannah & Jack

~ Jenna Markovic

We are very sad to hear this news. Both of our girls had Mimi as a coach and we will miss her smiling face and stickers at the end of the class. We'll miss you! Caitlin, Tataum, Julie and Dave Nash

~ Julie Nash

Fran, Stan, Robbie and family, I'm so very sorry about your loss. I had the pleasure of coaching with Mimi for the last two years at Whistler and Pemberton Gymnastics. She was a source of inspiration for me as a coach and for all the kids she taught. We coaches often found ourselves uttering what we call 'Mimi-ism's' encouraging kids to 'let your heart shine', and 'stand like a champion' ! Her colorful personality and positive energy were infectious and you couldn't help but smile when she entered the room. She had a way of making everyone feel special. She will be greatly missed and always remembered as the most generous, colorful, passionate, inspiring, vibrant person. We'll always miss and love you Mimi. Sincerely, Seija Halonen

~ Seija Halonen

We wish to send our sincere condolences to the family. We are shocked and saddened by your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tom & Karen & family

~ Kosir Family

We are so sorry to hear of your loss and are thinking of you, Stan and Frances and your family. We send our deepest sympathy. We had not seen Myriam for a long time but can still remember her at Slovenian events and what a joyous outlook she always seemed to have. She still looks just like we remember her and I'm sure will truly be missed by everyone she touched and especialy the children's hearts she touched as she truly loved what she did. Carolyn (Dragica)

~ Carolyn McNabb & Elizabeth Bacun & Family

Such sad news that we have suddenly lost Myriam. She was a warm, loving individual with a gift for reaching children. Our thoughts go out to the Sustarsic Family.

~ The McGhie Family

I am sorry for your loss, I will miss her dearly. She was a wonderful person and a great coach, I will remember her forever. Ronin Devine

~ Ronin Devine

Our family was saddened to hear of Mimi's passing. All three of my children have had Mimi as a gym coach. They have fond memories of a warm, loving and ALWAYS encouraging Mimi. I believe that the love of gymnastics was instilled in my children at an early age because of all Mimi's dedication and love of watching the children blossom into beautiful flowers. In our hearts, forever. the Jackson Family Whistler

~ Tracy Jackson

We feel your loss. She was the best. Gym class will never be the same. Her love and dedication to the children of Whistler will have long lasting effects for years to come. Always fond thoughts are evoked when we think of her. So glad we were able to have her in our lives. Our hearts go out to her family.

~ Jane, Mike and Tay Leone

Our family was so saddened by the loss of Mimi. Over the years she taught both of our children gymnastics in Whistler. She was always so caring & thoughtful. Whenever we saw Mimi in the community she would greet the children lovingly. We will all remember Mimi for her enthusiasm and big heart. The Gaudet Family xo

~ Kari Gaudet

Our condolences to the Sustarsics. High school sure was fun with Mym. We're glad she has reached out to many children with her love of gymnastics for all these years. Ross, Sarah and Nick

~ Sarah Bailey Pengilley

The enthusiasm and caring that Mimi portrait to both of our children will be sadly missed. Mimi was such a big part of our continued involvement in gymnastics making it fun and educational with always the same out come of smiles and giggles. Our community will miss you Mimi thank you for all of the wonderful memories. The Smith Clan.

~ The Smith Clan

Mom called today with the sad news of Myriam. I remember her kindness from childhood. She was always inclusive and gentle with me - the little tag-a-long from down the street. She was a favorite babysitter and in my adult life has crossed my mind several times in fond reminiscence of a wonderful childhood on Redford. My thoughts are with all of you. I hope the love you have for Myriam and the love people have for you will sustain you.

~ Selina Esteves

We will remember Mimi's beautiful smile and her contagious enthusiasm for life. She touched the lives of many and has left us inspired to give more and love more. She taught me about working hard and striving to achieve our dreams. We will miss you Mimi

~ DAwn Titus

Each life touches this world in a way no others can, leaving not only wonderful memories, but lasting imprints in our hearts. Mimi touched my life with her graceful spirit, giving heart and her contagious love for life. How fortunate I am to have known her. Mimi will be deeply missed. We send our deepest sympathy. Yvonne, Mike, Geoffrey and Bradley.

~ Yvonne Numan-Jansen

Mimi, my heart is broken to hear of your passing, you are the best gym coach ever, and I will miss you next year. Samantha Mimi, I may have grown taller than you (you loved to point this out whenever you saw me), but you will always be larger than life in my memory. Nicole Thank you Mimi for all your smiles, hugs, and encouragement of our girls during their time with you as a coach. You are the reason they love their gymnastics, and you will be missed greatly in our lives. I'm glad you touched our lives, we are better for it. The saying "Only the good die young", couldn't be truer in this case. Thanks for giving all that you did each and every day to our gym club and the Whistler community. The Deallys

~ Deally Family

I feel it an honour to have known Mimi. Never have I met a woman with such a beautiful heart and a genuine love for children. I have a permanent memory etched in my mind of her smiling face as she walked to the entrance of the gym to greet my 20+ Kindergarten children for their gymnastics class. They were always so excited when it was Wednesday and they got to be with Mimi at gymnastics. Not only was she a wonderful teacher and coach to the children but a teacher and role model for me as well. I will miss hearing Mimi say..."Hello Beautiful Children". She saw only the good in people and truly seemed to understand and cherish each of the children she came into contact with. I also had the privilege of having Mimi support me in my classroom as a Teacher's Assistant. It thrilled the children to have Mimi for the whole day! Thank you Stan and Frances for raising such a special lady. Rob, Jelena and Emily - it was so clear to me how much Mimi loved you all and I am so sorry for your loss.

~ Melissa Friend

I am so so sorry for your loss. I have known Myriam for 25 years. Myriam had the biggest heart with the most gentle soul. I will miss her dearly. Diane Niezen

~ Diane Niezen

Mimi was a very special, giving person in our community and we are deeply saddened to lose her. She had the perfect touch with toddlers. She could coax the shy ones into being brave, and encourage the spirited ones into following the program! We will never forget singing with her, "You may think that I'm too small (no way!), really I am not at all."

~ Rebecca, Oliver & James Barrett

We are so sorry for the loss of Mimi. Although I only met her a few times, she was my son's gymnastics coach, and she was so wonderful with the kids. It was obvious they all adored her. We will miss you, Mimi!

~ Cheeying Ho

Our family was so sadden to hear about your sudden loss. Our heart is with you Rob, Jelena and Emilly. We are thinking of you all during this time. I was honoured to have met Mimi through family gatherings in Whistler and she was always excited to see me. There was always a smile on her face. and she was so full of energy. I know she meant the world to all of you and I know she will be sadly missed. She was a very thoughtful, caring person. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Especially; to Jelena and Emily big hugs .. We love you all very much... Cousin Tressa, Greg and Adellexx

~ Tressa, Greg & Adelle

We are very sad to hear of Mimi's death and will miss her dearly. Like so many other families in Whistler, we met Mimi through gymnastics. Her cheerful attitude and dedication to the sport was an inspiration for Carly to enter competitive gymnastics . Her enthusiastic and unwavering encouragement of Robin's efforts in gymnastics , as well as anything else Mimi saw Robin participate in, let my daughter know she had a friend and staunch supporter. After any event, Mimi was always the first to come and tell Robin and then me how well she did and how proud of her she was. Knowing Mimi was like having your own personal cheerleader, and she gave that wonderful support and positive energy to so many children and parents in Whistler. I hope it is a small comfort to know that so many share in your loss and will have fond memories of the way Mimi touched their lives. Jill, Robin & Carly.

~ Jill Almond, Robin & Carly Mann

Dear Mama, Ottie & Rob, We are so sorry to hear of Myriam's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you always. Our birthday parties will never be the same. Mimi loved so much to see Jelena & Em's happy faces with presents, games and dancing! Myriam and I shared a very special place being aunties to Jelena & Emily. As all who know her she was a very affectionate gal and loved to celebrate life. Love Aunt "B" and family

~ Bonnie Swanson

Mimi will be sadly missed by our family. In the six years we knew her, she was always waiting with a smile to greet Ben and Julia at gymnastics, and knew how to make each child in her class feel special, and each parent feel that their child was a superstar. This year we were blessed to have her working occasionally on our staff at Spring Creek, and it was always a pleasure to see her enthusiasm in the classroom, the library, or out on the playground. Sara, Duane, Ben and Julia.

~ Sara Leach, Duane, Ben and Julia Hepditch

I still find it so hard to believe that Mimi is no longer with us. She has been a dear friend for many years, and I my life will no longer be the same without her in it. Thank you for being my friend. I'm so glad we were able to be together before I drove her to the airport when she left for London. My deepest sympathies for your family.

~ Patricia Stevenson

Words cannot express how deeply Mimi touched our hearts. Caeleb will especially miss his Aunt Mimi. He loved her very much. I have lost my best friend, and will forever remember her great kindness and huge heart. Our hearts go out to Mimi's family in their time of grief. Mimi was loved by many, and I know how much she loved her gymnastic classes and the many children whose lives she touched. We are all better for having known her. God bless Mimi. We will never forget you.

~ Deborah & Caeleb Balacko

It was with great sadness and alot of tears I told my children the shocking news of Myriam's passing. Mimi has been a part of their lives ever since they can remember. I can't believe it was eleven years ago that we met her as a motivational gymnastics teacher, coach and preschool enthusiast. Even when we were not involved with her programs, Mimi would go out of her way to say a kind word to the kids. She looked for the best in everyone and because of this she brought out the best in all. Thank you for the enthusiasm you passed on to everyone. You will missed terribly and remembered by all. Pam, Cassidy, Chantal and JJ Deane

~ Pam Deane

We went to high school together and even in our early teens I looked up to you Myriam. We competed together in gymnastics and I will never forget how talented and immensely kind you were even then . You always had time to give to others. So it is no surprise to me that you continued to give throughout your life. It makes me smile to know that you carried on inspiring others in a sport you so loved. I too am a teacher and there is no greater joy than to be a part of childrens' lives and help shape them. It sounds like you have made an amazing impact and your family must be so proud of your accomplishments. Myriam, you were blessed and will be sadly missed. In my prayers, Suzanne (deBoer) DeKay

~ Suzanne deBoer

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