CAROLINE SUSAN DIANE TAYLOR (WAITE)

Condolences & Memories (10 entries)

• I worked for Mrs. Taylor at River & Osborne Safeway. If you were in her good books, it was smooth sailing, but if you were in her sights - well, it was a bumpy ride. I felt a few bumps. :) I learned a lot about the business world from her, I just didn't know it at the time. I recall one summer when she transferred in a young grocery clerk named Dennis. He had 3 weeks seniority on me. Two of the senior clerks were scheduled to take extended holidays. Dennis was given almost all of the freed up hours. I got none. I was perplexed and upset. I asked Mrs. Taylor why this happened, and she succinctly told me I didn't deserve any more hours than my usual 5-6 hours per week (Friday or Saturday closing). It was a VERY bitter pill to swallow, but I'm extremely grateful she gave it to me. It caused me to take personal inventory and realize me and Safeway weren't a good fit. The day I quit Safeway, I started my new job. I came into the store that same evening for the bank deposit pickup, as a guard with BRINKS. When Mrs. Taylor saw me posted by the safe, she asked how I "got a job with 'them' "...my partner replied "BRINKS only hires quality people, ma'am." After that brief awkward moment, I thanked her for the experience of working for her. I also apologized for not listing her as a reference, instead listing a former manager, Mr. Mattern. She took it in stride and was all class! She said "not a problem" and wished me good luck in my future. Well, that BRINKS job led me to Edmonton, which in turn led me to denturist school...and now I am grateful to be where I am thanks to Mrs. Taylor playing a pivotal role in my life. Thanks Mrs. Taylor, Rest in Peace. - Posted by: Ron Reutcky (Former employee) on: May 11, 2022

• I had the opportunity to work for Carol at 590 Henderson and Kimberly. I have great memories of working for Carol, when I first met her I thought she was tough. I was a young 20 year old who was given the responsibility of closing the store on evenings, typically on weekends. I didn't realize it at the time, but in comparison it was like a Dad handing over the keys to his car to some young kid he barely knew. Carol would often stay at the store longer than required, sitting in the managers office from the upper floor. I felt she was watching over me, when in reality she was watching over every employee, customer and the store. Carol liked her store to look professional. She would leave me with a "To Do" List and expected things to be done a certain way. It was common for Carol to call the store from her home near the ending of every shift to check in on the store, the sales ensure we had enough product. I realized her standards were high, I started to realize how much Carol cared for the store and that care factor carried over to many employees she worked for. I notice a few of those names have written before me and I feel Carol helped shape those people into excellent leaders as well. We would often work Friday Night together, and it became a tradition for her husband John to pick her up from work. These were the rare times I would get to see the less business side of Carol. As her shift was over she would walk through the store with John and they would grocery shop together, it was a cute Friday Night Date Tradition that I got to watch them do quite often. Years go by and thanks to Carol she gave me the courage to chase another career which I have found success, however I have such good memories of working with her at Safeway. I got married, moved and years later had a child. Carol found out and reached out to me and gave us a beautiful baby present. Carol was an excellent Manager and person, I am so happy I had the opportunity to work with her. - Posted by: Michael Klassen (Co-Worker) on: Jul 08, 2021

• Carol was my store manager,she was a fair and caring person, never a harse word but full of praise for any job well done. I also word with John at dominion stores… the two were a perfect match. Carol from all the employees of Safeway whose lives you touched you will be missed - Posted by: Barbara taylor (Co worker grant park safeway) on: Jun 19, 2021

• Great lady with a heart of gold, meticulous attention to detail and well liked. I first worked with Carol at #562 in 1978 for a while then later on at #590. She took the time to purchase out of her own pocket a gift for every employee to present at the staff Christmas party. I had just called her a few months ago and we reminisced about old time’s , lots of great memories. - Posted by: Mike Simpson (Co-Worker) on: Jun 17, 2021

• Gord, Brad and extended family; As you are aware, Judy and I had known Carol since the early 70's. Carol had telephoned us about a month ago and had given us an update on her health condition, but we were certainly still shocked by the news of her passing. As the well written obituary pointed out, she was definitely a unique person with an incredible personality. She was always able to place some humour into any situation no matter how dire and help ease any tensions, anxieties, etc. which were occurring. They "threw away the mold." She will be greatly missed by all. Ed & Judy Gilroy - Posted by: Ed Gilroy (Friend) on: Jun 16, 2021

• Such a unique sense of humour. The first time I saw Carol she was laughing and joking and My first impression of her was that she loved to laugh. And oh the stories she could tell. Even though she tried to come across tough as a store manager she was fair and she did have a heart of gold especially for her grandchildren. She is reunited with her beloved “Pinkie” now - Posted by: Joyce Hill (Co worker) on: Jun 15, 2021

• An amazing person who was a true mentor and friend. Carol inspired others through her leadership, honesty, and loyalty. Above all else her sense of humour and ability to share stories and her experiences could have you rolling on the floor laughing. There were many days it didn't feel like work because you would have so much fun just being around her. Fondly remembered and greatly missed. - Posted by: Grant Kennedy (Co-worker) on: Jun 15, 2021

• Our condolences to the family. Carol was definitely quick witted with a wry sense of humour. We always enjoyed hearing her stories about the escapades that happened in her stores while she was at Safeway. Her love for her family was very strong, especially the love she had for her grandchildren. She will be fondly remembered. - Posted by: Bobbie & Harvey Makoski (Friends) on: Jun 14, 2021

• A great lady and a wonderful fellow store manager. Lots of great memories and good times. She will be missed. - Posted by: Peter burbsnk (Safeway store manager ) on: Jun 12, 2021

• My heartfelt condolences to the family. Carol was a beautiful, honest and caring lady with a wit that few could match. She was an awesome leader who shot from the hip, had your back and pushed you beyond your limits. You will be missed Mrs. Taylor - Posted by: joe missalino (Co worker) on: Jun 12, 2021