History of the Swedish Canadian Rest Home Association

Thora Johnson was a Lady with a vision. She recognized the plight of elderly Swedes, many of whom lived in deplorable conditions. In February 1945, she invited members of the Swedish community to a meeting in her home to discuss building a Rest Home for elderly people of Swedish descent. In the latter part of August 1947, the cornerstone was laid by District Commissioner M.E. Sowden for the $86.000. The 50 bed Rest Home was officially opened on May 15, 1949.

At the time of the construction of the Iron Workers’ Memorial Second Narrows Bridge, the Rest Home was virtually cut off by highway cloverleafs. Harold Swanson located a 5-acres garden nursery that was for sale in Burnaby on Duthie Avenue. This was purchased in 1956. The New Swedish Rest Home could receive 80 occupants, when it stood ready in 1957.

May 15, 1967 saw the Official Opening of an extension to the Swedish Canadian Rest Home. The Rest Home could now accept 114 residents. 20 single rooms and 8 two-room apartments had been built. An auditorium had been added to the lower floor.

The official opening of Gustav Vasa Place took place on April 5, 1992 with many dignitaries honoring the occasion with commendations and appreciation. It was also proclaimed that the site would be called the Swedish Canadian Village. The sod was going to be turned as well for the Valhalla Court construction. The Valhalla Court was the next project for the Swedish Canadian Village site with 27 condos planned with the intention that it would help financially cover the cost of the Swedish Canadian Village. The first condo owners moved in during the summer of 1993.

Rising costs and changes in provincial health programs brought about closing of the Swedish Canadian Rest Home in 1995. After much work and many difficulties, the Board of Directors started the construction of Swedish Assisted Living Residence — 64 one-bedroom units, 46 of which are subsidized by Fraser Health and BC Housing, and 18 private units. This building opened in March 2012.

Started by the Swedish Canadian community in the 1940’s and continuing to present time by the many volunteers and sacrifices of this community and others. Swedish Canadian Village continues to this day to provide Assisted Living and Subsidized Housing to many residents of Greater Vancouver of all nationalities.

Click here to read more about the history of the Swedish Canadian Rest Home Association.