Dr. Theresa Alida van der Goes was born on April 16, 1956 in Victoria, BC.  She attended Malaspina College, now known as Vancouver Island University, where she took classes in Medical Lab Technology and met David in 1977. Theresa and David moved to BCIT to finish their schooling and start their life together, marrying in 1992.

Theresa worked as a Lab Technician in Victoria and was approached to consider a new program through which she could transition into medical school. She accepted the offer and began a new direction toward becoming a family physician.

Theresa graduated from the University of Calgary medical school in 1994 and completed her residency at the University of British Columbia in 1996. For much of her medical career, she practiced in Nanaimo, BC, first as a family physician from 1996 – 2010, then as a hospitalist from 2011 onwards. She was appointed to the role of Site Faculty for Assessment & Evaluation for the UBC Department of Family Practice Postgraduate Program in 2007 and reprised the role in 2011. In this central administrative role, Theresa championed the education, mentorship and leadership of Assessment site faculty at all 17 sites across British Columbia.

Theresa’s passing will undoubtedly leave a profound sadness in all her knew her. She had an ability to leave one feeling very cared for, a gift to all who knew her. She was an amazing woman who lived her life with integrity and dignity.

Theresa leaves David, her husband of 47 years, along with his children Amanda, Robin (Clare) and Maia (Mark); grandchildren Aleister, Cathryn, Beth and Olivia; siblings Joanna, Deborah (Marvin), Jonathon (Kelly) and Phillip (Lisa); chosen sister Lisa; and many other friends and colleagues. She was predeceased by Betsy and Adrian.

Donations to the Dr. Theresa van der Goes Memorial Fund will honour Theresa’s passion and commitment to the learning environment and outcomes of residents and preceptors. Your gift will pay tribute to Theresa’s life and career by supporting students in UBC’s MD Undergraduate Program. Final decisions on the allocation of funds will be made in consultation with Theresa’s family.