Deaths & funerals

ANDERSON, Mary Viola Mildred

April 16, 1919 - December 1, 2012

It is with great sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt and friend. Mary was devoted to her family and leaves behind her loving husband, Cliff of 69 years, her children, Mary-Lynne (John) Britt, Tim (Wendy) Anderson, Lori Baker; her grandchildren, Tara, Kevin, Leah, Jason, Katrina and six great-grandchildren. Mary loved to dance - she and Cliff square danced with the Mavericks for many years. Her family has fond memories of her wonderful baking, sewing and crocheting. Special thanks to her second family at Glenwarren Lodge where she lived for almost four years.

A Funeral Mass will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 4049 Gordon Head Rd, Monday, December 10 at 11: 00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society.

CANOVA, Myrtle Margaret

September 4, 1917 - December 2, 2012

Margaret passed away peacefully at the Priory on December 2nd, 2012. She was pre-deceased by her first husband, Frank Skinner in 1966 and her second husband, Bob Canova in 2001. Margaret is survived by her son Jim Skinner and his wife Suzanne of Armstrong, son Tom Skinner and wife Myna of Coldstream, daughter Sharon Ward and her husband Jim of Sooke. Margaret leaves behind 7 grandchildren, Debbie Shenkenfelder and husband Wayne of Victoria, Denny Morris and wife Karen of Shawnigan Lake, Jamie Skinner and wife Patty of Kamloops, Cindy Green and husband Kevin of Edmonton, Lenore Curtis and husband Derek of Winnipeg, Jennifer Zoldan and husband Lou of Edmonton, Andrew Skinner and wife Darcy of Kanata, and 15 Great Grandchildren. Margaret will be especially missed by Nicole and Alana Shenkenfelder of Victoria. Margaret was born in Anaconda, Montana but grew up in Saskatoon where she married Frank Skinner in 1938. Frank was in the Navy and they moved frequently across Canada, ending up in Victoria when Frank retired. Margaret worked for the BC Government for many years, starting with the Department of Motor Vehicles, then Timberland Appraisal, and she retired from the Department of Education in 1981. She met Bob Canova when she joined the government curling league and they were married in 1977. Margaret loved gardening and curling. She was also an accomplished knitter and supplied her family with many fine sweaters. We are grateful to all of the staff at Birch Cottage VIHA -Heritage Woods Complex and to Doctor Jong for taking such good care of Margaret during the latter part of her life.

A celebration of Life will take place at Sands Funeral Chapel of Colwood, 317 Goldstream Avenue, on Monday December 10th 2012 at 1: 00 p.m, with a reception to follow. Interment at Hatley Memorial Gardens, Colwood.

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.

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.

JANSON, Patricia Alice

January 14, 1932 to November 18, 2012

Pat passed away in Ladysmith, BC on November 18, 2012 at the age of 80. Predeceased by husband Henry Janson in 1995; survived by son Roger, daughter Deborah and grandson Francis. Pat was born in England and immigrated to Canada, first to Winnipeg, then to North Vancouver in 1959. Pat had a long career as a fashion buyer at Eaton's department store and later at Woodward's, traveling extensively in Canada and abroad. She and Henry retired to Mill Bay on Vancouver Island in 1989, where they enjoyed their waterfront home.

In lieu of flowers a donation to the Minerva Foundation or Canadian Cancer Society would be appreciated. In accordance with Pat's wishes there will be no service. The family wishes to thank her long time physician, Dr. Dawn Galbraith, Tanya at Heritage Manor in Duncan and the Lodge on 4th for their kind and compassionate care.

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.

HOWARD, Barbara Blanche (Morison)

1924 - 2012

On November 20, 2012, Barbara Howard passed away in the same manner as she lived her life - with smiles, strength, dignity, and surrounded by her loving family. Barbara was predeceased by her caring husband, Robert (Bob) Howard in 2010 and she is survived by her four daughters: Ann, Kathy, Susan and Janet. She is remembered by her sons-in-laws as well as her cherished grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews, nieces and many valued friends. She is also remembered by her siblings, Jack Morison, Bruce Morison (Francis), sister Helen Wilcox (Jim) all of Windsor Nova Scotia and sister, Peggy Darroch in Petaluma, California. Barbara was born to Percy and Georgie Morison in Windsor, Nova Scotia on Oct. 31, 1924. Barbara, a telegraph operator met Bob when he was stationed in Nova Scotia while serving in the Canadian Navy during WW 2. They were married in 1945 and following their wedding travelled by train west and made their home in Duncan B.C. where they lived for 65 years. Over the years, Barbara maintained a strong connection to her birth province. She could find a Nova Scotian under any rock in B.C. through her keen interest in how people were connected. She would always discover that a person would have a cousin who had an uncle with a wife who had some connection to Nova Scotia! However, it was people she loved and she was interested in even if the maritime connection wasn't made because by then she was your friend. Barbara enjoyed contributing to many community organizations such as the Duncan United Church, Violet Lee Fellowship, Cowichan Valley Garden Club, Kinnette Club, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation. A generous, role model and respected community person, Barbara was an avid reader incredible cook, gardener and traveler who without hesitation opened her home to anyone with graciousness, friendliness and a good cup of tea. Barbara's family would like to thank the staff at Dove Hill in Chemainus, as well as her many friends who visited, phoned or sent cards to Barbara during her time there.

We will be hosting a tea to celebrate Barbara's life in the Spring 2013 when the wild flowers stand above the grasses and mosses over Maple Bay... Barbara's favorite time of year! In lieu of flowers, if you wish, kindly donate to the Osteoporosis Society of Canada or the Heart and Stroke Foundation or a charity of your choice.

In Barbara's words,"Toodle-loo!"

We love you, Mom. #1,#2, #3, #4 and all of your family.

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.

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.

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

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, nephews, 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.

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.

REEVES, Cherreine Elizabeth (nee Parker)

July 31st, 1922 - December 3rd, 2012

Cherreine, a long time resident of Victoria, passed away in Trillium Lodge, Parksville, B.C. near her family. She was predeceased by her husband of 61 years, Ralph Carswell Reeves. Cherreine leaves behind to mourn her three children Gary (Cheryl) Reeves, Valerie (Jack) Bridgewater, Beverley (Artie) Thibault, grandchildren Kelly (Larry) Mitchell, Kyle (Jodi) Reeves, Spencer Hedges, Parker (Suzanne) Hedges, Marni (Cliff) Loud, Troy (Morgan) Diburgo, twelve great-grandchildren, her sister Peggie Neumann, niece, nephew, sister-in-law Marie Reeves and countless friends. Gracious, gentle, caring and god-fearing are a few words that describe our mother, Cherreine. Our lives have been enriched by her wisdom, experience and just knowing such a precious, sweet lady.

We welcome all those she touched to commemorate her life on December 15, 2012 at 2: 00 p.m. at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah's Witnesses, 8151 East Saanich Rd, Central Saanich, B.C.

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.

JIMMY, Roberta Marie February 17th, 1942 (Sidney, BC)

December 6th, 2012 (Victoria, BC)

Traditionally married in 1960 to her husband George (Collins) who journeyed home in 1993, she was predeceased by her son Duncan. She is survived by and will be dearly missed by children Shirley (Curtis) Claxton, Frank, Bill, Michael, Andrea (Luke) Johnny, James (Tanya); 14 Grandchildren, 14 Great Grandchildren; siblings Ben Noriss, David (Ethel) Bill, Gus, Irma (Marvin), Jim, Joe, Marcia; along with many other family and friends.

Both prayers at Pauquachin Hall on Sunday, December 9, 2012 at 7 pm and service on Monday, December 10th, 2012 at 9 am.

RICHARDSON, Robert "Bob"

1941 - 2012 Passed away suddenly and peacefully at home in his sleep in Courtenay, British Columbia on November 25, 2012. He was born in Southampton, England in 1941. Upon graduation from Reading University he emigrated to Canada in the early 1960's where he began his high school teaching career. He married Eleanor Ward in 1972 in Thunder Bay, Ontario where they resided and taught high school. In 1995 they relocated to Brentwood Bay on Vancouver Island. For the past three years he has lived in Courtney, B.C. He was predeceased by his loving wife, friend and soul mate Eleanor in 2007. Survived by his brother David (Kathy) in England and his two nieces Fiona (Stephen) and Janet, his sister-in-laws Betty Inksetter Lacoste (Michael), and Joan Bowman (Jack) in British Columbia. Also remembered by his nieces and nephews, Mahlon, Elizabeth, Katherine, Jonathan, Brian, and Scott. He will be deeply missed by his husky and special pal Toby.

A Celebration of his Life in Brentwood Bay will be announced in the New Year. In memory of Bob, donations may be made to your local SPCA.

http: //robertivorrichardson.wordpress.com/2/

THATCHER, Frederick Cuyler

January 18, 1921 - November 24, 2012 After a heart attack and a short stay in hospital Dad passed away peacefully in the presence of his daughter, Margot and son-in-law, Bob. He is predeceased by the love of his life, Gloria Lily (nee Edwards). They met on a blind date at the end of the war in 1945 and were married six months later. Dad's service in the Second World War was one of his greatest accomplishments. He joined the RCAF in Oct. 1940 and later was a one man draft to the RAF. He piloted a plane from England to India and then did 3 tours of operations over India and Burma. In spite of many medical conditions over his lifetime Dad always managed to overcome them and move on. He was an astute investor and managed his own investments until he died. After Gloria died he continued to live in his own home and appreciated all the help he received from his friends, family and neighbours. Thanks to Donna Pederson for her care for Mom and Dad over the years. Thank you Dad for your love and support. We'll miss your sense of humour, your strength and generosity. Alicia and Tara will miss their grandpa greatly.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the middle of January, 2013 around what would have been his 92nd birthday. Date and place in Courtenay to be announced.

WHITAKER, Kenneth

Ken Whitaker passed away at the Royal Jubilee Hospital on November 23, 2012 with his grandchildren Erinn and Jacob Brown at his side. He was 91 years old and lived in Victoria for most of his life. Ken was born in Normanton, West Yorkshire and travelled to Canada in 1927 as a young boy with his family. The Whitaker family settled in Cowichan Station, and Ken grew up here before joining the Canadian army in 1942. He served with the 15th Canadian Field Regiment, Royal Canadian Artillery, 4th Armoured Division during the second World War, ultimately participating in the liberation of Holland. Ken received a number of medals for his service, namely the Volunteer Service Medal, The Defense Medal, and The France and German Star awarded for his participation in World War II. It was in Holland that he met his wife Johanna, who came to Canada in 1947 to marry Ken in Duncan. In his lifetime, Ken was the proprietor of two grocery stores one in Duncan and one in Oak Bay. He also worked for many years in Victoria at Glidden Paint, Clarke and Pattison and as a manager for Mills Paint. Johanna predeceased Ken in December, 2006. Recently, Ken was predeceased by his eldest son-in-law, Herb Dobson. Ken is survived by his three daughters Sylvia, Karen (Randolfe) and Pamela (Garrett); his five grandchildren Jennifer (Ryan), Sarah (Kevin), Erin, Jacob and Yohanna; his four great grandchildren Tyler, Jared, Calleigh and Lauren and his sister Dora Whitaker. Ken will be remembered for his love of gardening, interest in world affairs and history.