- British Columbia, Canada, Marriage Index, 1872-1935 -
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Elsie Florence McGillis
1942 - 2009
Elsie McGillis, resident of Dawson Creek, BC, passed away on May 10, 2009 at 67 years of age.
A Funeral Mass for Elsie was held at 1:00 pm on Wednesday, May 20, 2009 at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church,908 - 104th Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC
Officiated by Father David John
Expressions of sympathy may be made in memory of Elsie to the charity of your choice.
A Prayer service was held on Tuesday, May 19, 2009 at 7:00 pm at the St. Mark's Anglican Church Hall 1029 - 103rd Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC. Led by Father David John.
Bessie Samson
1949 - 2009
Bessie Samson was born in Burnt Island NL on July 2 1949.to Hubert and Susan Enwood. Bessie was the fourth child in the family. She was raised along with ten brothers and sisters; Audrey, Harvey, Eva, Albert, Phyllis, Hubert, Goldie, Marina, Bruce and Deanna.
In her early years, she was employed as a housekeeper in Port Au Basques NL. Bessie moved on to St John’s NL and worked at the school for the deaf. She was boarding at the Morgan family home when she met and fell in love with their grandson, Charlie.
The newlyweds moved to Faro Yukon with their little girl Charlaine. The following years brought the arrival of Warren and Melissa. Years were filled with those strong friendships that last forever. The Samson’s moved to the pioneer town of Tumbler Ridge BC after brief stays in NL and the sunny Okanagan. In 1994 the first of the grandchildren arrived; Dannion, Jordan, Presley, Scott, Tara and Seth. Bessie was very proud of her children and grandchildren; she shared a great love with her husband Charlie. She did not want nor expect a lot from life.
If her friends and family were happy, she was happy. She loved everyone and showed them everyday how much they meant to her. All of her life she put herself last and with her love and her time she was a symbol of all that was caring and good. Bessie was known for her spirit and laughter and eagerly shared her smile. That smile would brighten any day! She was fiercely loved in return and will be greatly missed by all.
Bessie will be fondly remembered by her husband Charlie Samson; children Charlaine (Terri), Warren (Jocelyn) and Melissa (Adam) ; her grandchildren Dannion, Jordon, Presley, Scott, Tara and Seth; her siblings Audrey (Arthur), Harvey (Geraldine), Eva (Noble), Albert (Selina), Phyllis (John), Hubert (Jennie), Goldie (Darcy), Marina (Vern), Bruce (Debbie) and Deanna (Christopher) ; 24 nephews and nieces, her mother in-law Beatrice Samson and her brother in-law Gordon Samson.
Bessie is predeceased by her: father Hubert Enwood; father in-law Mark Samson; and brother in-law William Samson.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at the Tumbler Ridge Senior Secondary School in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.
Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd.
Frances Konopada
1919-2009
Krancisca Elizabeth Anna Konopada was born on December 12, 1919 in Rotterdam, Holland to Anna and Franciscus van Ravesteijn.
Frances immigrated to Canada from Rotterdam, Netherlands in 1948 to join her future husband, Harry Konopada. This young courageous lady left behind her family, career and “comfortable” lifestyle for a new life in Canada. Life was difficult for Frances, however, she never complained but rather gave of herself completely to others, attending to their needs ahead of her own.
Frances lived simply, asked for every little but always, gave faithfully and all of herself, to her husband Harry and her seven children.
Frances’ children were dear to her heart. To watch her face light up whenever she spoke about her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was truly inspirational.
Frances’ beautiful smile, joy and fond memories she brought to so many individuals and friends is a testament to her kindness, compassion and love for all.
Frances, we love you, we will miss you. Now it’s time to join your loved ones who have gone before you to be with your Lord and Savior, amen.
Frances was predeceased by her husband Harry Konopada. She is survived by her children: Frank Konopad, Anna Sheppard, John Konopad, Irene (Don) McLean, Elsie Konopad (Brian (Malloy), George Konopad and Mary Ann Konopad; grandchildren Crystal, Jason, Patricia, BJ, Dustin, Angela, Brandy, David, Alix, Christina, Ashley and Fran; great-grandchildren: Devin, Bradley, Kaylea, Christopher, Justis, Keilah, Vinnie, Kealynn, Christian, Chelena, Robyn, Melissa, Rosanna, Amber, Joshua and Caleb.
A Prayer service was held on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, officiated by Sister Connie Harkin. A Funeral Mass was held on May 14, 2009 at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, Dawson Creek, British Columbia, officiated by Father Michael Anyasoro. Interment followed in the Brookside Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made in memory of Frances by way of a donation to the ‘Notre Dame Building Fund’ 908-104 Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 2H7.
PHYLLIS ABEL
March 14, 1924 - April 24, 2009
Phyllis Wetherill was born March 14th, 1924 in Lone Prairie, B.C. She couldn’t wait to start exploring the world and was born in the sleigh on route to Grandma’s house. Phyllis was the fifth child and the second daughter born to May and Bert Wetherill. Her mother taught her correspondence until the school in Lone Prairie was built in 1932. She moved with the family to Groundbirch in 1936. She continued her schooling in the Tuscolla Mt. School in Groundbirch. Phyllis had a love for horses which she has passed down to her kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. She loved music and could play a variety of instruments including the guitar, accordion, fiddle, mandolin and the organ. She sang and yodelled for her family. At the age of 16 she went to work as a clerk first at the Groundbirch Store and then at the Dawson Creek Co-op. She met the love of her life, Herman Henry Abel, at a local dance. They married on October 10, 1943. They bought their first house together in Dawson Creek on 104th Ave. Shortly after the birth of their first daughter they moved to a quarter section in Groundbirch, next to Phyllis’ parents. Phyllis was a nurturing care giver. She had a special bond with each and every one of her children but it didn’t stop there. She babysat for friends and family. She believed babies were to be loved and pampered. Her kids’ friends considered her their second Mom as she accepted them into her home as one of the family. Phyllis was a self taught seamstress. She could sew the most beautiful wedding gown, frilly dress, Halloween costume - right down to repairing binder canvases. She loved to knit siwash sweaters, baby layettes, aphgans and lace doilies. When her youngest daughter Dannette was in school Phyllis went back to work. Phyllis worked at Park Apiaries, the Groundbirch Store and then she became a homemaker. She retired in 1983. She continued to give herself to others. Phyllis’ eye sight started to fail and she was declared legally blind at age 75. Phyllis lost her husband and partner of 61 years in January of ’05. She stayed at the farm for as long as she could, then in January of 06 she moved into Southview Apts. in Dawson Creek. Later, she moved into Rotary Manor on March 23, 2009. Phyllis passed away peacefully April 24, 2009.
Phyllis was predeceased by her parents, May & Bert Wetherill, her brothers, Kenneth, Warton, Johnny, Douglas and Ronald Wetherill and sister Elsie Linsley and husband Herm Abel. She is survived by her daughters Dawn Leer (Cliff Faulkner), Valerie Truax (Garnet), Amber Fullerton, Terry Onychuk (Greg), Shellie Graff (Russell), Shannon Howes (Wayne), Dannette Sluggett (Sheldon) and son Kenneth Abel (Dawn), 23 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.
A memorial service was held on May 4, 2009 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, officiated by Peggy Bergeron.
Memorial arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd. Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Lloyd Lefebvre
1928-2209
Ted was born Lloyd Antoine Lefebvre on July 30th, 1928, the first of nine children born to Antoinette and Harry Lefebvre in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
Lloyd – nicknamed and remembered as Ted, was a man full of life. A determine, self-reliant and independent individual who enjoyed the land, his farm and the wide open spaces.
As the oldest child in a large farming family, he learned at a young age, how to work and contribute to the welfare of the family. Growing up during the harshness of the depression in Barthel, Saskatchewan, meant that everyone pitched in and did their share.
Back then farming wasn’t a state-of-the-art machinery with enclosed and air conditioned cabs. Farming then was hard, physical labour. Working alongside his father and uncles meant plowing and hauling with a team of horses, cutting crops with the binder, thrashing with an old thrashing machine. Hard work indeed! But Ted loved it – and even after he left Saskatchewan he always came back in the fall to help with the harvest.
Ted moved to Bonanza Alberta in 1960 after homesteading the land for a couple of years. His neighbours were his family – brothers Charlie, Leo, Gerry and Ray, and Uncle Rene along with their families, all farmed in the same area.
In 1955, Ted met the love of his life – Edith Campbell. Together they built a home and enjoyed a simple, uncomplicated life. They farmed, raised cattle and horses and planted a large garden. One of his greatest joys came from raising, grooming and riding the many horses he had throughout his life. Ted and Edith never had children of their own however their farm was always a place where a niece or nephew could be found. Ted was patient and kind – especially with children.
Family gatherings were the highlight of Ted’s life. Pot luck suppers, country dances, numerous family weddings, harvest time and everyone laughing, telling stories, singing and enjoying each other’s company were things Ted enjoyed.
Ted may have lost his battle but it was after a long, labourous journey. He passed away on April 10, 2009 at 80 years of age.
Ted is predeceased by his parents Antoinette and Harry Lefebvre and sister Beatrice Lefebvre. He is survived by his siblings: Agnes Conlin, Charlie (Agnes) Lefebvre, Edgar (Lillian) Lefebvre, Leo (Joanne) Lefebvre, Ray (Jeanne) Lefebvre, Jeannette (Murray) Smith, and Glenna Lefebvre and numerous nieces and nephews.
A Memorial service was held on April 18, 2009 at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Officiated by Father Michael Anyasoro. Inurnment followed in the Dawson Creek City Cemetery. Expressions of sympathy may be made in memory of Ted by way of a donation to the British Columbia Heart & Stroke Foundation Box 714, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 4H7 or the Dawson Creek & District Hospital Foundation 11100-13 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3W8.
Memorial arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd. Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Alice Annie Collins
1918-2009
Alice Annie Collins London Ontario, formerly of Kelowna and Dawson Creek, B.C., passed away on April 30, 2009 at the London Health Sciences Centre- University Hospital at the age of 91 years. Pre-deceased by her husband Charles (1995), son Wayne (2006) and his wife Ella (1998) . Survived by her sons Donald of Prince George, BC and Gary (Myra) of London Ontario; eight grandchildren Beverly, Barbara (Mike Henderson) and Robert (Dena) ; Mark, Lance (Susan) and Craig (Nancy) ; Kelly (Ken Resendes) and Tara and great grandchildren ; Nicholas, Stephanie, Kory, Travis, Kyle and Nic Collins.
Special acknowledgment for the outstanding care and support compassionately provided by the emergency, neuroscience and palliative care departments of University Hospital, London Ontario. Many thanks to Rhonda Biggs and the staff from Medical Priorities for the support they provided over the past few weeks.
Funeral services was held on Friday, May 22, 2009 at 2 pm in the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, 10200 -17th Street, Dawson Creek, BC. Interment to follow at Dawson Creek City Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the South Peace Senior Secondary High School Trust Fund (for a Scholarship for the Agriculture Program) 10808-15 Street, Dawson Creek, BC V1G 3Z3.
Marteen Rachel Ferguson
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of a very special young lady. Marteen Rachel Ferguson was born January 5th 1980 in Regina Saskatchewan. Marteen was born with Congenital Neuphrodic Syndrome which left her body with no kidneys and a life of dialysis. Marteen came to live with Harold and Angela Ferguson as a baby in foster care. She remained in their care and was raised as part of the family. Marteen endured much sickness in her life. She had well over one hundred trips to Toronto, Saskatoon, Prince George and Vancouver for ongoing surgeries to keep her body alive. Marteen had two kidney transplants, one that lasted five years and the other her body rejected immediately.
When Marteen became an adult she moved to Dawson Creek to live with her sister and Best Buddy Janna Ferguson. Since there is no dialysis unit in Dawson Creek, Marteen had to travel 5 days a week to the Fort St John dialysis unit, where she would have her 3.5 hour dialysis and then travel back to Dawson Creek. A very special man named John Norquay provided transportation to the patients and always made sure they arrived safely and that all their needs were taken care of. This was very tiring and time consuming, but Marteen never complained and just accepted that this was her way of life.
Marteen’s second family were the compassionate nurses and the other patients at dialysis. Their love and care for Marteen went far beyond their regular work duties.
Marteen was always ready to challenge anyone to a fast paced game of Skipbo which she would usually, and then giggle in pure delight. Marteen was physically small in stature, but was a mighty servant of the Lord. Her ongoing courage and undying faith in her Saviour Jesus Christ touched so many, many lives. Her smile and love for her family friends and All people will never be forgotten. Marteen passed away peacefully in the Fort St John hospital at 8:30 am on April 20th, 2009 at 29 years of age. Marteen is now in heaven running, laughing and praising Jesus as she has been made whole and has no more pain. She was reunited with the many special needs brothers who lived with the Ferguson’s as well as her Papa, Grandma and Grandpa.
Marteen is survived by her parents, Harold and Angela Ferguson, Big sister and Best Buddy Janna Ferguson, nephew Miguel, sister Maryrose and special brother-in-law Brian Schulte., nieces Tierney and Teanna, nephews Jarius and Wyatt. She is also survived by her sisters Charity, Creeann, Crystal, Tina, Miranda and brothers Danny, Dustin, Ricky and McKahlie. Marteen had many special friends including Candace May and family, Cathy Craig, Jim Norquay, Grandview Chapel and Bethel congregations, CLBC staff, and the many doctors and nurses who cared for her throughout her lifetime.
A Celebration of Life service was held at Bergeron’s Funeral Home on May 7th @7:00 pm. Thank you to the many people who participated or helped out. It was so appreciated. For anyone wishing to make a donation, a fund has been set-up to furnish a family room in the Fort St John dialysis unit in memory of Marteen, c/o of the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation, #6 – 9711 – 101 Avenue, Fort St. John, British Columbia, V1J 6S1
Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Service & Crematorium Ltd.
Dale Roland Frederick
1920-2009
Dale Roland Frederick, resident of Groundbirch, British Columbia, passed away April 20, 2009 in the Chetwynd Hospital Care Home, Chetwynd, British Columbia at the age of 88 years. A funeral service was held Monday, April 27, 2009 from Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek. Pastor Lee Stephenson officiating. Interment followed in the Groundbirch Mountain View Cemetery. Eulogy present by Brandi Sather.
Dale Roland Frederick was born the third son of Walter and Effie Frederick, September 5, 1920, in Worth County Missouri. The home that he was born into was loving but very poor. There was the oldest son Clifford Walter, some 15 years older, and second son Chandos died at 12 years of age (1926) when Dale was six years old.
Dale’s parents attended the Church of Christ in Isadora, Missouri every Sunday. All the children were baptized there and had many happy memories of that church. Marilynn recalls that “as a child she was impressed with Uncle Dale’s hearty booming voice. And his singing voice—the popular songs of the middle “40’s” she learned from him.
He graduated from Grant City High School in 1938. Dale married Lorene Carden in 1941. They had 3 children; twins Carl and Carole born in 1942 and Bob born in 1943.
Dale immigrated to Canada in June 1969. His first choice was to live in Chetwynd, British Columbia, then he bought land in and moved to the Groundbirch area. Dale and Hettie Madden met about 1970 and were married November 1972 in Regina Sasktachewan.
In 1974 and for years that followed Dale did Contract Logging and clearing wilderness to farm land and ranch. The work was not easy, almost primitive compared to the way it’s done now. He was thankful to have good hired help that toughed it out with him for many years. He approached each day with a positive attitude and nothing seemed too complicated or discouraged him.
He loved fishing trips and in hopes he could encourage the grandkids to go with him. He enjoyed the old western movies on the road or at home on TV. Come mealtime he always said grace and the grandkids remember that well. As his great nephew (Phil) put in words “Uncle Dale’s adventuring free spirit and quest for the open road took him across North America seeing things we may never get to see”. Come “spring break” Dale and Hettie would head out and distance didn’t matter with the R.V.
Dale is survived by his loving wife, Hettie, his children: Carl (Sue) Frederick, Carole (Ron) Powell, Bob (Cathy) Frederick; step-son Dennis (Annie) Madden; grandchildren: Christopher Frederick, Rebecca Frederick, Roland Frederick (Lara Clark), Jodi (Doug) Fleming, Bill (Jennifer) Powell, Kirk (Michelle) Powell, Brad (Bobbie) Powell, Rick (Julie) Frederick, Jeannette (Mark) Neil, Brandi (Trevor) Sather, Bryce Madden (Diane Dahl), Brette Madden, Duane (Karina) Postles, Tracy (Mike) Grams; nieces Marilynn and Bonnie and nephew John.
Dale was predeceased by his parents Walter and Effie; brothers: Clifford and Chandos; sister in-law Bertha Frederick; nephew Gene Frederick; step-daughter Sharon Madden and grandson Ron Powell.
