Our History
Supporting the process of life and serving the community since 1986.
Timeline
In 1986, Abbotsford Hospice Society was registered as a non-profit society due to the efforts of our Founding Group. These incredible professionals, community members and families saw a need for hospice and grief support in our community and stepped forward to make a lasting difference.
In 2016, Holmberg House was opened, providing a 10 bed hospice residence for palliative patients in our community (in addition to the 10 beds at Abbotsford Regional Hospital, Palliative Care Unit). It also provided a beautiful space to facilitate our children’s and adult grief support programs and groups.
Throughout the years, thousands of families have come through our doors receiving support as they faced grief and loss, at no charge.
Through the vision and leadership of many and from the generous support of our community members, we have been able to walk with individuals and families during a very sensitive time in their lives. AHS has grown to serve the expanding and diverse community of Abbotsford and its surrounding areas, and with the love and care provided by our staff and volunteers, allow for individuals to "live well until they die".
In 2021, AHS celebrated 35 years serving in and supporting our community. An 8- page newspaper insert was published to provide the community a detailed look into our services and programs and the cherished role
we play in Abbotsford and surrounding areas.
The Holmberg Legacy
In 2011, the announcement of a B.C. Government grant of 3.5 million dollars served to augment the extensive personal financial contributions and tireless fundraising activities of David and Lee Holmberg. The name of the new adult hospice, Holmberg House, was intended to honour the life and legacy of David Holmberg Jr., their son, who died of cancer in 2011 at the age of 48. Additionally, financial support came from all parts of the community that included businesses, service organizations, and individuals.
We are very grateful to the Holmberg Family who have played such an integral part and gave generously of their time and resources to ensure that Holmberg House became a reality and that it would be available to serve the people of Abbotsford.
Dave Holmberg Sr. passed away in 2017 and his wife, Lee, only one year later, in 2018. Both were avid golfers and generous supporters of Ledgeview Golf & Country Club. The Holmberg Memorial Golf Classic was started in their honour and raises funds each year to support their legacy at the Abbotsford Hospice Society.
