Ginette Amélie Mille was born 28 July 1921 in Paris. She was raised in Egypt though she travelled regularly to Europe for summer vacations. Finally, in 1948 she moved back to Paris. In 1951, she met Suleyman Özkul Alyanak, my father. They married after 11 days. Leyla, my sister, was born 7 May 1953, still in Paris. They all moved to Canada a couple of years later. That's where I was born 2 January 1960.

Mom lived a very full life. The usual ups and downs, but frankly, more ups. She was loved. She was appreciated. She was cherished. Rarely have I met someone who was liked by so many. Sure, she had character, she had views, but she also had compassion.

What will we, her friends and family, remember her for? I think I speak for all when I say her positive outlook on life. Not a day went by, literally not a day, when mother did not feel grateful for life. She was everyone's source of comfort. If you needed cheering or support, you dialed her phone number. When she sat at a dinner table, you knew there would be great conversation filled with laughter and joy.

To those of you who knew her, I know you'll miss her. For those of you who did not, go out there and find someone to help, to encourage, to cheer on. Cheerleading is good. Being a force for change is noble. And frankly, as mom would tell me during our long nights as I worked and she kept me company watching television and making me seven coffees, "the planet needs some hope and kindness." Indeed, the sooner we stop being nationalists, warriors and brigands, the sooner we'll focus on what is key to our common good; nay, our common survival.

Thanks for everything mom. We love you.