O’KEEFE, Mary - Saturday, 16 Aug 2003
Mary O’Keefe, late of Chilliwack, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 16, 2003 in the Chilliwack General Hospital, at the age of 70 years. She was born on April 7, 1933 in Seba Beach, Alta., and has lived in Chilliwack for several years.
She was full of laughter and always enjoyed a good joke. She loved to garage sale on Saturdays and was a vendor at the flea market on Sundays. She was also a lover of Bingo. She will be sadly missed by all who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her partner of many years Wilf; three sisters, Sonja (Ed), Josie (Lloyd) and Angie (Harry); eight children, Linda (Stewart), Brian, Larry (Jackie), Lori (Bryan), Karen, Gail (Rudi), Michael (Colleen) and Doug; 17 grandchildren, two great-grandsons; many nieces, nephews and friends.
She was predeceased by her father, Max and mother, Nadia.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.
A memorial service will be held - Wednesday, Aug. 20, 2003 at 10 am from the Chapel of Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home, 45865 Hocking Ave., Chilliwack.
SCOTT, Donald A. - Friday, 15 Aug 2003
Donald A. Scott passed away on Friday, Aug. 15, 2003 at the Chilliwack General Hospital.
There will be no service by request.
SIEBEN, Shirley Elaine - Thursday, 14 Aug 2003
Shirley Elaine Sieben, late of Vernon, B.C., formerly of Chilliwack, passed away Aug. 14, 2003.
Funeral Service will be held at the Chapel of Henderson’s Funeral Home Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. Major Angus Haggarty officiating. Interment in Chilliwack Cemeteries.
She is survived by her husband Solomon Sieben; 5 sons: Don Stamper of Saskatchewan; Dan (Betty) Mirva of Kelowna; Dennis (Annette) Mirva of Canmore; Doug (Susan) Mirva of Chilliwack; Adam (Joanne) Sieben of Bassano, Alberta; 2 daughters: Debbie (Alf) Cranfield of Chilliwack and Diane (Sid) Campbell of Vernon. She is also survived by numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; 1 brother: Neville (Lillian) Stamper of Saskatoon, and other extended family members.
She was predeceased by her first husband Walter Mirva in 1966; two grandchildren William and Debbie, and a brother Doug Stamper.
DOWNING, Mary Eileen - Thursday, 24 Jul 2003
Mary Eileen Downing (nee Blatchford) passed away peacefully July 24, 2003 at Chilliwack General Hospital with her family around her.
Mary is survived by her three children Roger (Michelle), BillieGrace (a.k.a. Gwen) and Bert (Shelly), her grandchildren Roseanne (Bryce), Cherissa, Amanda, Jeremy, Alyssa, Paulina and Dryden, and her great-granddaughter FaithAnne, and her brothers and sister, Bill, Ellen, Jim, and John.
She was predeceased by her parents William and Alice, her brother Michael, her sister Elizabeth, and a precious baby girl.
Mary was a Nurse's Aid at Chilliwack General Hospital for quite a few years. She then went on to many other achievements in her life. She had a strong will and a feisty spirit. Mom fought hard and stayed positive through out her fight with cancer over the last 4 1/2 years. Time took its toll and she found her peace. She will be greatly missed.
Special thanks go to her dear friend Elma for the extra little pushes and to all her other friends for their encouragement.
The family would like to give the Staff and Dr. Noble a big round of applause for their never-ending support.
Funeral Service will be held at Woodlawn Funeral Home at 45865 Hocking, Aug 1, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. Tea to follow at Mount Cheam Lions Hall at 45580 Spadina Ave., Chilliwack.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Chilliwack Community Services Driving Program or Children's Hospital.
BETTS, Herbert Louis (Bert) - Wednesday, 23 Jul 2003
Herbert Louis Betts (Bert) died on July 23, 2003 at age of 81 at Eden Intermediate Care Home after a long illness. Bert was born Sept. 10, 1921 “within the sound of Bow Bells” in London, England (making him officially a Cockney). He was one of four boys and when his mother died in 1936, he became “Mum” to them until his Dad remarried which early on demonstrated his caring nature.
As a young man he worked as a shop assistant during which time a lovely young lady “with nice legs and high heels” caught his eye. While a shop assistant, Bert enlisted in the Territorial Army for four years and in 1939 he was called into full-time service in the British Army as war was approaching. He finally proposed to the “young lady” on the top of a double-decker bus in 1940 and Elsie May Wells became his bride on Aug. 30, 1941.
Bert’s war-time service took him to Madagascar, India and Burma for which he received the Burma Star. He had been trained to be a signalman during that time and this was the beginning of a love for the technology of communication.
After returning home from the war, Bert began an apprenticeship as a machinist but had gotten to love the outdoors and became, instead, a Constable in the Port of London Authority Police. His family always thinks of this time as demonstrating strong inward courage when you consider Bert’s size and the fact that the dock police only carried a night stick and a whistle.
Three daughters were born to Bert and Elsie—Janet in 1946, Carol in 1950, and Christine in 1952.
Bert joined the London Metropolitan Police Force in 1949 and remained a London “Bobbie” until 1956. His family remembers watching the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953 and see their Dad on TV standing guard at the gates of Buckingham Palace.
In 1956 Bert showed a hidden adventurous spirit and enlisted in the Canadian Air force bringing his family to Canada. He had enlisted as a Military Policeman but always his love for communication was right there. He first become involved in amateur radio while stationed in Goose Bay, Labrador and received his first amateur license there.
The opportunity to fulfill a dream came for Bert as the RCAF offered an opportunity for a change of jobs for anyone interested in retraining as a communications technician. Bert jumped at the chance. Bert’s eldest daughter remembers with admiration, long evenings of study as both she and her Dad studied difficult math while she was in high school and he in training. The family was restationed back to Winnipeg when his training was complete. Bert belonged to the Amateur Radio League of Manitoba and volunteered his time to help in emergencies and also helped people communicate with loved ones and friends around the world. Bert and Elsie moved to B.C. in November 1971 after Bert retired from the RCAF. They lived for a time with his brother Reg and during that time, Bert became a member of the Ryder Lake Volunteer Fire Department and a member of New Horizons Amateur Radio Club, subsequently becoming president.
Bert came out of retirement the following year and worked at Canadian Forces Base, Vedder Crossing, as custodial staff, eventually becoming Superintendent. He was well-liked by his staff who appreciated his listening ear and his support.. After 10 years, Bert retired again but continued to serve others volunteering at Senior’s Resources, for the Red Cross repairing wheelchairs, at the B.C. Summer Games and continued his involvement in the Amateur Radio Club. He made numerous trips to be with family, who were very important to him, for weddings, graduations, holidays, or just to enjoy their company. Bert will be remembered for his love of family, his quiet wit and his sense of humour. The family would like to thank Dr. Cameron Ross for his kindness and care over the years, as well as the staff of Eden Intermediate Care Home. Bert is survived by his wife Elsie, his brother Norm (Joan) of Lincolnshire, England; and sister-in-law, Pat; daughters: Janet (Jim), Carol (Eugene) and Christine; grandchildren: Cindy (Curtis), Scott (Jennifer), Brendan and Kaycee; and great-grandchildren RJ, Brett, Marlee, Christopher and Thomas. Cremation arrangements are in care of Henderson’s Funeral Home and Crematorium. A memorial service to celebrate Bert’s life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, July 28, 2003 at Henderson’s with a reception to follow. Should friends so desire, donations in Bert’s memory may be made to the Salvation Army.
RYCKMAN (nee Dent), Daisy (Evans) - Wednesday, 23 Jul 2003
Daisy was born on March 30, 1910 in Bradford on Avon, England and passed away at Chilliwack General Hospital on July 23, 2003. She came to Canada with her family at the age of three to live in Saskatoon. They moved to Chilliwack in 1916 where she met and later married William John Evans (Bill) who predeceased her in 1963. Daisy spent many happy years gardening, sewing, crocheting and making a loving, happy home for her family. She loved her many friends and was known for her fancy teas and lovely flower arrangements.
Daisy remarried in 1969 to Willard Ryckman and the resided on Williams Street in Chilliwack. Willard passed away in 1994.
To her sadness, she was unable to carry on her many hobbies when her health deteriorated but dearly enjoyed the company of her friends and family. She had a unique quality of making others happy and a quick wit to the end. Daisy is survived by her daughters: Melody (Richard) Leahy of French Creek, Sherrie (Allan Giroux) Trott of Chilliwack, and stepson Ronald (Rose) Ryckman; grandchildren: Bill (Sharon) Trott, John (Shari) Leahy, Steven Leahy, Debbie (Bruce) Newby, and Lindsay Ryckman and Murray Ryckman; great-grandchildren James and Gabriel Leahy (twins), Katherine and Graham Newby, and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents Alice Maude and Albert Dent; brothers: Albert, Leonard, and Ernest; and sisters: Violet Rose, Ida, and Iris, well as her husbands William John Evans and Willard Clive Ryckman. Many thanks to Mom’s special Home Support Workers these last two years, the Lions Roy Campbell Lodge, the many hospital staff who tried to keep her comfortable during her last days, and to Dr. Drew Young, her friend and physician. There will be no funeral services at her request. A Celebration of Life will be held in honour of Daisy to be announced at a later date. Cremation arrangements in care of Henderson’s Funeral Home.
KRAMER, John - Tuesday, 22 Jul 2003
May 7, 1931 - July 22, 2003
John Kramer of Chilliwack, B.C., passed away at home with his family at his side on July 22, 2003 after a courageous battle with cancer.
John is survived by his wife, Ann, his partner in life for 51 years; daugthers: Trixie (Fred), Marilyn (Charlie) Yolanda (Bruce), Annette (Steveo); sons: John and Steven (Karen). He has 13 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and also two brothers in Canada: Jerry (Joanne), Jack (Eileen) and three brothers and one sister in Europe.
Numerous relatives residing in Holland and many dear friends in Canada. John came to Canada in 1952 where he took up residence in Deroche, B.C. He wanted to have his own dairy farm, so he first worked as a hired farm-hand on Nikomen Island and in 1960 his wish came true and bought his own farm in Sumas Prairie. He worked hard at this for 30 years.
John has a history of community service. In the early years, while living in Deroche, he was a member of the Hall Committee and was instrumental in raising the funds to have the Community Hall erected. Member of the Recreation Committee and became involved with sporting activities. After moving to his farm on Tolmie Road, he became involved in developing the Barrowtown Irrigation District, which continues to be a great boon to the farmers in the area. He was a leader of the Chilliwack 4-H Holstein Calf Club for 15 years and served as chairman of the 4-H Senior Council for four years. Through 4-H, he became involved with the Chilliwack and District Agricultural Society. He had served on this board for 14 years and had been president of the society for six years. He also served as local secretary for the F.V. M.P.C.A. as a director on the B.C. Holstein Branch and a director of the B.C. Association of Agricultural Fairs and Exhibitions.
In his free time, he enjoyed camping with his wife, Ann. They would take their fifth-wheel and head out to the Oregon Coast (their favourite) or through B.C. and the States. He also enjoyed travelling to unique places such as Costa Rica, Mexico, and Hawaii. He enjoyed his time with his family and friends and we will all miss him very much. We gratefully decline flowers, and if you would like to make a donation, please give to the Canadian Cancer Society.
THOMPSON, Charles Ernest “Chuck” - Tuesday, 22 Jul 2003
Charles Ernest “Chuck” Thompson, late of Chilliwack, B.C., passed away July 22, 2003 at the age of 72 years. He was born June 19, 1931 in Biggar Saskatchewan. No service by request. Cremation, Valley Crematorium. Charles is survived by his loving family, wife Irene; son, Timothy (Ann) of Sooke, BC; foster son, Francis Home; two sisters: Jean (Steve) Kirincic of Delta and Judy (Steve) Hawley of Victoria; five brothers: Mike (June) Thompson of Victoria, Al (Lois) Thompson, Steve (Leona) Thompson, all of Lake Cowichan, Ken Thompson of Powell River, Lance (Linda) Thompson of Bowser, BC; numerous nephews, nieces and many close friends. He was predeceased by his parents Agnes and Ernest Thompson, and two sisters, Mandy Koudijs and Ida Walker. Should family and friends so desire, donations in his memory may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, Volunteer Driver Program.
BELLOW, Robert Gerard - Tuesday, 22 Jul 2003
Robert Gerard Bellow passed away at 5:00pm, - Tuesday, July 22, 2003, in Chilliwack General Hospital, at age 78 years, following a short illness.
He was Born May 25, 1925 in Baldur, Manitoba and is the last of the era of siblings.
Robert leaves to mourn his loving wife, Edna; daughter Marleen (Dennis) DeMare, sons Byron (Shelley) Percy (Vicky) and Tim (Donna); 10 grandchildren, Darryll (Lisa), Kimberlee (Jason) Stelmaschuk, Lance (Lauri), Cassidy, Ronelle Alanna, Shelby, Melissa, Matthew and Megan; great-grandson, Bradlee. His parents Ben and Lydia, brother Frank and sister, Marjorie, predeceased him.
A Celebration of Life will be held - Saturday, August 2, 2003 at 1:30 pm, from the Chapel at Woodlawn Mt. Cheam Funeral Home, 45865 Hocking Ave. Chilliwack, B.C. with Major Angus Haggarty officiating.
Bob was a mixed farmer on the homestead in Baldur, Manitoba. He also drove a school bus for 22 vears. He and Edna visited Chilliwack, B.C. fell in love with the valley and mountains and moved here in August 1981 to be closer to their daughter. Bob worked for Fraser Valley Foods for 7 years until he had to take retirement. Many hours were spent with his precious horses and sculpting his picture perfect yard. He was an avid puzzler and made frames for all. He had a passion for playing games of all kinds. He leaves behind a great legacy; he touched the hearts of many and will be remembered for his willingness to help anyone, his true loving friendship, his generosity, his wit and most of all his sense of humour.
The memory of his warmth and kindness will be cherished; he will be missed but never forgotten. We Love You.
A special thank you to Dr. Bartel, Wanda and the N.U.4 of Chilliwack Hospital.
STETSKI, John - Sunday, 20 Jul 2003
John Stetski, born Nov. 18, 1916 in Gorlitz, Saskatchewan, died peacefully on Sunday morning, July 20, 2003 in Chilliwack, B.C. after being diagnosed with cancer.
He is survived by his sons: David, Daniel and Andrew; daughter-in-law Barbara; five grandchildren; brother, Nick; sisters Sadie and Rosie; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Predeceased by his brothers George and Fred, sisters Mary and Doris.
He will be missed by family and friends. John enjoyed playing chess and carpet bowling with his friends and was avid in his charity support of World Vision. John wished to be cremated with no service. The family wishes to thank the staff at Chilliwack General Hospital for their care and support.
God Bless You, John.
BOLTON, Veronica Evelyn (nee Gauthier) - Sunday, 20 Jul 2003
By the grace of God, Veronica was granted eternal peace July 20, 2003—an end to all her pain and sorrow. Her last wish, to be home at McIntosh Lodge with her truly devoted husband Neil by her side, was fulfilled. Veronica was born in Leeds, England in 1943. She came to Canada in 1946, married in Kamloops in 1973, and resided in Chilliwack since 1996.
She is survived by her mother Elsie Begley; three brothers: Charles, Micheal, and Andre Gauthier; one sister, Maureen Gauthier, and many nieces and nephews.
Her great sense of humour and her dignity were honoured by all who knew her. Rest in peace. A service of remembrance will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Sat., July 26, 2003 at Chilliwack Community Church (Salvation Army), 46420 Brooks Ave., Chilliwack, B.C. In lieu of flowers, a donation to a charity or church of your choice would be much appreciated.
HOFF, Francis Gerald - Sunday, 20 Jul 2003
Francis Gerald Hoff, late of Chilliwack, B.C., formerly of Morrin, AB, passed away peacefully on July 20, 2003 at Chilliwack General Hospital in his 86th year. He was born in Rowley, AB, and had lived in the Chilliwack area for 63 years.
A Service of Remembrance will be held at Mt. Shannon United Church in Chilliwack Monday, July 28, 2003 at 2:00 p.m. Cremation at Valley Crematorium. He was a member and trustee of Mt. Shannon United Church. He is survived by his brother Ken, also of Chilliwack, and his sons: Jeff (Sophia) of Chilliwack, and Chris (Janet) of Richmond. He is also survived by three grandchildren: August, Jennifer, and Jonathan.
He was predeceased by his loving wife, Helena, in 1985. He will be missed by his children and especially by his three grandchildren to whom he was the greatest Grandpa in the world.
PLITT (nee Dargatz), Emma - Sunday, 26 Oct 2003
Mom passed away peacefully at Chilliwack Hospital on October 26, 2003, surrounded by her family, at the age of 90. She was born in Millet, Alta. on June 19, 1913.
Predeceased by her husband Robert, January 7, 2002.
Mom married dad in Alberta and spent the first half of her life on the farm working hand in hand with dad in the fields and raising four children with much love. She was a wonderful lady.
In 1957 they moved to Chilliwack. Mom has made her home at Eden Care Home since 2000.
Pall bearers are John Stanley, Anthony Stanley, Ron Plitt, Jeff Burgess, Jason Schabler, and Darren Plitt. Honourary pall bearer is Robert Hicks.
Emma is survived by her children, sons, Dallas (Melva) of Stony Plain, Alta., and Melvin (Melody) of Grande Cache, Alta.; daughters, Shirley Schabler of Chilliwack and Beverly (Jack) Stanley of Chilliwack. She is also survived by nine grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.
Donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society in mom’s memory would be greatly appreciated, in lieu of flowers.
We, the children and grandchildren of Emma, thank everyone at Eden Care Home for their loving care on yet another member of their extended family.
BOSWELL, Gerry - Sunday, 26 Oct 2003
Gerry Boswell passed away suddenly on October 26, 2003 at his home in Chilliwack, B.C. Born June 5th, 1925 in Summerside, P.E.I. he is
Survived by Mary, his wife of 47 years, brother Russ (Marg) of Vancouver, B.C., and sisters Ollie of Sardis, B.C. and Elvie (Kit) of Victoria, B.C. He is also survived by his daughters Norma (Mal), Tracy (Brian) and sons Russ (Patti), Dave (Deb), Kelly (Deb), 13 grandchildren and various nieces and nephews.
Gerry was predeceased by his Mother and Father Gussie and Earl Boswell, and his sister Irene.
A letter carrier with the local Post office for 33 years, Gerry was a member of the Canadian Order of Foresters, and a veteran of the Second World War having served Overseas with the Winnipeg Rifles.
Gerry has left a void in the hearts and a funny story on the lips of not only his immediate family, but also with the vast circle of people he would call his friends.
He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Canadian Hemophilia Society.
