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Deaths & Funerals

CLARKE, Leslie Edward "Les" 1924 - 2012 Les died peacefully on November 23, 2012 at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital. He was born on April 1924 in the Village of Chadwell St Mary near Gray, Essex in England.

CLARKE, Leslie Edward "Les"

1924 - 2012 Les died peacefully on November 23, 2012 at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital. He was born on April 1924 in the Village of Chadwell St Mary near Gray, Essex in England. He leaves his wife Hazel Clarke and two daughters, Hilary (Mike) Tredwell and Janet (Eric) McKinstry. Also five grandchildren; Andrew Tredwell, Chris (Emily) Tredwell, Lesley Tredwell, Cortnie (Gary) Clarke and David Clarke. He joined the RAF in WW2 and did his flight training in Mesa, Arizona. The family emigrated to Canada in 1957, coming directly to Victoria, BC. He was first employed at the Department of Lands and Forests ten computer administration with BC Assessment and the Municipality of Saanich until retirement in 1988. Following retirement Les and Hazel traveled the world.

He always put his family first and never lost his sense of humour. We will all miss him dearly. A remembrance tea will be held at Amica Beechwood, 2315 Mills Rd in Sidney from 2-3 PM on Dec. 9, 2012. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation or to the charity of your choice.

GOUDREAU, Lucien (Lou)

November 15, 1929 - November 30, 2012

Lou passed away peacefully at Oak Bay Lodge in Victoria. Born in Wotton (Easter Townships) QC to Oscar and Leonie Goudreau on November 15th 1929. Lou worked in Sudbury Ontario, moved to Los Angeles in 1963, was meat manager for Vons Grocery. After many trips to BC for hunting and fishing he decided to move to the island for his retirement. An avid golfer, Arbutus Ridge became his home for 22 years. He loved all sports and enjoyed travelling. He is survived by his wife of 58 years Denise, his sisters Adrienne of Annapolis MD, Helene of Montreal, Denyse of Santa Monica CA, brother-in-law Jean Paul Nault (Colette), many nephews, nieces and cousins.

The funeral service will be held at 11.00AM on December 8, 2012 At St. Francis Xavier, 790 Kilmalu Rd, Mill Bay with reception to follow at Arbutus Golf Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cowichan Valley Hospice Society. Arrangements have been entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, 4725 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC.

INNES, Laura Belle

Born January 31, 1918 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, passed away at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria, BC on December 2, 2012. She was predeceased by her sisters, Ruth Brault and Georina MacKenzie. She worked for Crease & Co. for many years, was a member of the Gorge Vale Golf Club for 25 years and then moved to Cedar Hill Golf Club for a few more years. She was an avid curler at the Victoria Curling Club and Juan de Fuca Club. She always enjoyed the friendship from the people in those sports. She made many trips to Hawaii and a trip to Buleton, California with friends for a golf holiday. The bus trips to Reno were always the highlight. She played poker at Six Mile House and at the Langford Legion at 94. Her many friends will miss her. She will be sadly missed by her husband, John, as they were partners and travelled the world together. The family would like to thank Dr. Critchley for all his help and the staff at the Royal Jubilee Hospital, they made her more comfortable.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 7, 2012, at 10 am at First Memorial Funeral Chapel, 4725 Falaise Drive, Victoria, BC. With a reception to follow.

GRANT, Dr. Harold Laurier

May 15, 1927 - November 28 , 2012 Born in Guysborough, Nova Scotia.

Harold was a brilliant, kind, generous gentleman who will be deeply missed by his daughter, Laurie Kathryn Grant, his son, Peter Murray Grant, his grandson Harley Jaymes Grant, his sister Marion Joan McQuinn, his nieces and nephews Elizabeth, Russell, Alex, Dan, John, Ian and Ella and other family members. In Harold's early years, he lived above the Guysborough Post Office. Harold's mother Marion, a school teacher gave him a head start on his education. He excelled and in 1949 at 22, had a Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics from Acadia University and a Masters in Physics from the University of Western Ontario. He was 23 when he arrived in Victoria on the afternoon ferry Dominion Day, July 1, 1950 to join the Pacific Naval Laboratory as Defense Scientist. Little did he know that this would be his home for the rest of his life. In 1953 he met Teddy (Lesley Murray) as members of the Victoria Theatre Guild. In 1954, they married and went to Cambridge, England where Harold received his PhD in Physics. They returned to Victoria, September 1957 and shortly after arriving back at Pacific Naval Laboratories, Harold went on a lecture circuit to John Hopkins University, the University of Michigan, the National Bureau of Standards, Harvard, and MIT. Harold also excelled in his career; in 1961 working with the United States Navy, 1962 taking over Fluid Dynamics, 1966 Head - Marine Physics Section 1 and Head - Fluid Dynamics, 1973 Director - Physics Research, 1981 Chief - Defense Research Establishment Pacific (DREP) and in October 1985 - Retired. For 35 years, Harold was an important member of the work conducted by DREP. He was married to Teddy until her passing in April 2005 and together they raised two children, Laurie and Peter. He remained in the home where they celebrated their fiftieth wedding anniversary until the last few weeks of his life. Harold was an avid gardener at Admirals Rd and Seamist Court, an ardent sailor - sailing an El Toro at the Canadian Forces Sailing Association (Esquimalt Squadron) and racing on the Gorge, Council President, Mattick's Green Strata and always with a keen interest in nature, science, and truth. There are many people to thank for their loving support for the last few years of his life. The family is extremely grateful to the Urquharts, the Van Der Leedens, the Godfreys, the Evans and B. Hughes. Many thanks to Dr. Marsh, the nurses and the support staff at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital for their kind care and compassion.

There will be no service at his request. A celebration of his life will be held in the Summer 2013. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation, or the Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson's Centre Society (VEPC) or to a charity of your choice.

KULYK, Peter Michael

Passed away suddenly on Saturday, November 24, 2012 in Vancouver, BC, at the age of 58. He will be sadly missed by his wife Wendy, daughter Katherine, sister Oristeen, brother Joe (Janet), niece Julie, and nephew Jeff along with many, many friends. Pete was a football player (the only time in his life he was told he was too small), and a "car guy" for more than 35 years. He enjoyed a good meal - it didn't have to be fancy, but it did need to be hot - and a good cigar. The most important things in his life were his daughter Katherine - he was so incredibly proud of Katherine - and his legions of friends from all walks of life, who gave so much enjoyment to him and for whom he would have done anything. We will all miss him terribly. In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice in Pete's name would be appreciated.

Family and friends are invited to remember Pete in Vancouver on Friday January 4, 2013 please call 778-874-8559 for details and to RSVP. Condolences may be offered at www.kearneyfs.com.

LEROUX, Tom February 15th, 1960 - November 30th, 2012

Sadly passed away after a brief illness. He will be missed by family and friends.

Service to be held at 3: 00 pm at Hatley Park on Friday, December 7th, 2012.

MAAS, Willem (Bill)

January 5, 1960 - November 29, 2012

In the early morning of November 29th, 2012 at Vancouver General Hospital, our dear Bill peacefully left this earth comforted by the enormous love of his family. He fought hard and overcame two battles with leukemia but lost the war due to complications three months post bone marrow transplant. Bill was an extremely proud and dedicated father to Eva and Reed. They will eternally be the light of his life and Daddy will always be their Hero. Bill is also survived by his loving mother Hennie Maas; devoted 'wife' Amir Maas; cousin/'brother', Roy Blokhuizen; sister Elisabeth Brandt (Henk); nieces Alicia, Keely & their families, niece Neena Robertson; in-laws Vicki Sangha & Rick Robertson, Cindy & John Boxem, Mimby Sangha, Neil Sangha; god daughter Karina Sangha as well as many relatives and extended family both here and in the Netherlands. Bill was predeceased by his father Henk Maas in 1998. Born and raised in Victoria, Bill spent most of his working life in the construction industry where he made many friends over the years. He had a keen interest and a great knowledge of local history and always had a story to tell about it. Bill was also known for his sarcastic sense of humour. He was truly one of a kind. Bill will be deeply missed by his family, friends, coworkers at Island Asphalt Company, and colleagues throughout the industry.

A celebration of Bill's life will be held Sunday, December 9th, between 1: 30-4pm at the Beach House Restaurant, 5109 Cordova Bay Road, Victoria BC. There will be an open mic for anyone wishing to share their memories. The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses and support staff at Vancouver General Hospital - 15A BMT for their care and support for Bill over the past several months. You are truly amazing. A special thanks to nurses Julia, Nathalie and Sarah - you were outstanding! Also, thank you to cousins Indira and Lisa, family and friends for all your support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Leukemia BMT Unit of Vancouver or the Leukemia Lymphoma Society http: //www.llscanada.org/#/waystohelp/don ate/. We love you Daddy/Bill. A huge hole is left in our hearts. Until we see you again. Xox

To leave a condolence, please visit www.earthsoption.com

Earth's Option Cremation and Burial Services 778-440-8500

McKAY, Margaret Susan

Known as Susie or Sue, was born May 26, 1925 in Edmonton, Alberta and grew up on the family farm at Irma, Alberta. She passed away on November 25, 2012 at Luther Court, 1525 Cedar Hill Cross Road, Victoria, British Columbia. She was predeceased by her parents, Cliff and Helena McKay; her brother, Jack A. McKay and her sister-in-law, Dori McKay nee Cosman. She is survived by her brother, Donald C. McKay; her sister-in-law, Vera McKay; her niece, Mona Almberg and her husband, Ross; their children, Vanessa, Renee and Luke. After finishing high school at Irma, she went to Toronto and ultimately worked as an industrial laboratory technician in Toronto and later at Buckingham, Quebec. In the fall of 1948 she began her studies at the University of Toronto and ultimately received her Masters degree in Social Work. She worked in Child Welfare in Toronto, Haileybury, Ontario and for many years in Winnipeg, Manitoba. During her working years her vacations were spent traveling to places in Asia, Southeast Asia and Australia. Upon retirement she moved to Victoria, BC and greatly enjoyed life here. She continued her interest in traveling, visiting places like Newfoundland, Cuba, Haida Guai and Nunavut.

A memorial service will be held at Luther Court, 1525 Cedar Hill Cross Road, on Friday December 14, 2012 at 2: 00 pm.

McMEEKIN, Mr. Alan Daniel

(Also known as ACE)

Passed away on Thursday, November 22, 2012 at the age of 77. After surviving three heart attacks, the fourth he was unable to fight, passing peacefully in his sleep. Ace is survived by his children, Lori McMeekin, Clayton McMeekin (Marylee McKeown), Valerie McMeekin (Dana Hatfield), his grandchildren Nicolle Gonidis (Christian Hayes), and Georgie Gonidis, his sisters Margaret McMeekin Sanders, and Faith Reeves (Devon), numerous nieces, nephews, and their families. Ace was born in Cardston, AB, but raised in Victoria, BC. He worked in the newspaper business in Victoria for the Times/Colonist, and in Vancouver for the Sun/Province.

It was Ace's request not to have a funeral service and his wish to be cremated. Relatives and friends are asked at their convenience to raise a glass to Ace, he did not want a fuss, but a drink in his honour he would appreciate.

MILLIGAN, Douglas (Dougie)

November 16, 1936 - December 2, 2012

It is with great sorrow we announce the passing of our beloved husband, Dad, Papa, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle and friend. Predeceased by his mother Lil, father Joe, brother Larry and nephew Denis. Doug was devoted to his family and leaves behind his wife and best friend Yvonne of 54 years, three children Mike, Janice, Rick (Chantel) and six grandchildren Jaime (Andrew), Kacey, Kate, Ty, Alex, Brett and his loving puppy Jackpot. Doug is also survived by his sister Wendy and brother-in-law Larry Mackenzie. He was much loved by his nieces, cousins and extended family members. Dad was born and raised in Port Alberni, where he began his career working in the logging industry at a very young age. In 1974 after living in many small towns on the Island we made Victoria our home. He was actively involved in his children and grandchildren's sports, whether it be to Coach or vocally cheering from the stands. Dad loved his days on the golf course with his buddies John, Tommy and Terry. Everyone was entertained by his quick wit, and funny stories. He was an interesting, loving, wonderful man and will be greatly missed. The family would like to thank their long time physician Dr. Dereck Smith and the staff at VGH.

A celebration of Doug's life will be held on January 12th, 2013 at The Royal Colwood Golf Club. A shotgun start at noon until 3pm. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in memory of Doug to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Thank you Dad for everything you were and always will be to us, we love you.

You will live in Mom's heart forever.

POTTER, Pat

July 16, 1933 - December 2, 2012

After a long illness, Pat passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family. Pat leaves behind her loving and devoted husband Len, daughters Chris (Brad), Kathy (Keith), Karen (Mike) and Stepson Dean, 7 Grandchildren and 8 Great-Grandchildren. Pat was a retiree from BC Ferries and The Memorial Arena and a current member of The Esquimalt Legion and the Seniors Group - branch 172.

There will be a celebration of Pat's life on December 10th 2012 at 2pm at First Memorial Funeral Services 4725 Falaise Dr. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to BC Lupus Society/ 200-1645 W 7th Ave, Vancouver BC V6J 1S4.

ROOS, Helena Johanna Maria

(nee Nuijten)

Born March 5, 1933 in Tilburg, Holland. Mom passed away peacefully on December 1, 2012 aged 79 years. She was predeceased by her sister Johanna (Arnold) of Holland and is survived by her brothers Frans (Judith) and Harry (Wilhelmina) of Holland and sister Sophia (Paul) of Victoria, children Marie Ann (Frank), Monique, and Paul of Victoria, Leslie (Mark) of Maple Ridge, and eight grandchildren, Sean (Trudy), Danielle (Bobby), Michaela, Eric, Rachael, Martine, Nolan and Emma. She also leaves behind Anna (Charles) her best friend since they were 16 and who she immigrated to Canada with after they both married. Mom also leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews in both Holland and Canada.

A celebration of Helena's life will be held in March, 2013. Donations to the Salvation Army Sunset Lodge in Helena's name are appreciated.

SINCLAIR, Agnes Blake

Passed away peacefully on Friday, November 30, 2012 at the age of 98. Agnes was born on January 6, 1914 in Glasgow, Scotland. She was predeceased by her husband Jim in 1994, her brother Richard and her sister Margaret. She will be lovingly remembered by her sons; Richard (Jessica) and Jack (Beverly) grandchildren; Bradley, Tina, Blake (deceased) Andrea as well as numerous great and great great grandchildren, Sister; Emma. Special thanks to Dr. Vally and the staff at Ayre Manor for their kindness and caring support for Agnes.

No service by request and donations may be made to a charity of ones choice.

"Agnes my Scottish Bluebell"

WALKER, Belva Elaine (Barker)

Born Kisbey, Saskatchewan, September 7, 1922; died Victoria, December 2, 2012. Predeceased by her husband Vic in 2010, Belva is survived and lovingly remembered by her daughter Laurie (Donnie) Earles of Campbell River, sons Kim of Mississauga and Harry of Victoria, grandchildren Leigh-Anne (Paul) Israel of Toronto, Sherry (Matt) McCarthy of London England, Tom and Pete Earles of Campbell River, great-grandchildren Juliet, Deidra, Isla, Harley and Walker, plus many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. During the war Belva joined the Air Force. She later earned a BA from Victoria College, University of Toronto, where she recently attended her 60th reunion. Vic and Belva and family lived in Saskatchewan, Alberta, Germany, and Alliston, Ontario, before retiring to Victoria in 1986. Mom maintained lifelong friendships from all these associations. Belva enjoyed reading, learning, and travelling. She particularly loved France and Hawaii. Always active, Mom played many sports, and lately enjoyed watching curling and the Blue Jays on TV. Mom enjoyed playing cards, especially bridge, and also family card nights. She taught the grandchildren to play when they were very young, which helped them do well at maths and sciences at school. The family appreciates the care of Dr. P. Gunton, and the amazing service provided by VIHA - the Quick Response Team, Home and Community Nursing, Palliative Response Team, and Beacon Community caregivers.

No service by request.

WHIMBEY, David Allan

November 10, 1960 - December 4, 2012 It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to Dave. After a long struggle with cancer he passed peacefully on December 4, 2012. He is predeceased by his parents Ralph and Beverly and leaves behind his devoted wife Brenda, son Alex, daughters Michelle and Marie, step-daughter Megan (Chris, Mason), brothers Chris (Sidalia) and Don, sister Cathy (Mike), in-laws and many friends. Dave was the strength in our family and always provided the guidance and advice we needed. He will be remembered for his wealth of knowledge and his passion for helping others. An amazing man with a heart of gold, Dave will be missed. Many thanks to Terry Barton for his kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 15th at the Esquimalt Legion Branch #172 from 2-4pm.

WITT, Gregory

February 25, 1961 - December 7, 2011

With his family all around him, Greg slipped away peacefully onto his next journey. Greg died from severe complications due to polycystic kidney disease. He was predeceased by his father, Ove Witt (also PKD), in 1973. He is survived by his mother Marian Reilly (Joseph Reilly); brother Christopher Witt (Brenda); sister Mereta Witt (Jim Wood); sister Tanya Descoteau; nieces and nephews: Megan, Tracy, Sam, Simon, Helena & Cole. Family in Quesnel, Saskatchewan and Denmark. Also, many cherished friends and long time family friends. And his loyal and loved canine companion, Lucky. Greg was born in Victoria, a Fairfield kid. He grew up there until he moved to Campbell River in 1977. He lived there until the last day, at home - the beach house with the 'view' that was a joy and solace to him. Greg's happiest times were spent on the ocean boating and fishing. He was also very passionate about the aviation industry and had a long career in airport maintenance. Greg was 'gregarious', funny, generous, charming, smart and a 'Greg of all trades'. He was most dearly Loved.

A private ceremony was held Feb. 25, 2012, Greg's 51st birthday. The family wishes to thank everyone who attended, sent cards and prayers. We also especially thank Greg's friends, Curtis, Steve and Don who stood by him through the best and worst of times. We are missing Greg every moment of every day but are relieved and grateful that he suffers no more. To honour him, please consider registering to be an organ donor at www.transplant.bc.ca.