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Lloyd Raaen
1941 - 2001
Lloyd Raaen, resident of Spirit River, Alberta, passed away on December 1, 2001 in Spirit River at 60 years of age. Lloyd was born on June 2, 1941 in Dawson Creek, to Anna and Sevat Raaen.
A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on December 6, 2001 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, BC with Pastor Gary Henderson officiating. Lloyd was cremated, and his cremated remains were interred in the Brookside Cemetery, Dawson Creek.
Eulogy:
Dear Dad,
We didn't expect to lose you this soon. Though we are extremely saddened, we are relieved for the peace within that you will finally have. We may never fully understand the path that you chose to live your life by, and we will always hope and pray that we did enough.
We are so grateful to know that our years with you were your happiest years. You instilled strong morals in us girls that will always serve us well. The pride you had in your success with farming and your courage to pursue your own welding career was strong and gave us a good sense of strength and pride in our own lives.
We will always cherish the many hugs and laughs we shared with you. Your sense of humor was truly unique and stands out - you will continue to make us chuckle in the years of memories to come. You would be happy to know that thanks to you we all now have a soft spot for country music.
You were so much more of a father than you ever realized, the sadness felt when we were separated from you was nearly unbearable.
Thank you dad, we received so much of who we are from you and we are so grateful for that. You were always honest with us and over the past few years we were able to talk deeply and honestly with you about many issues. Your honesty will always stand out to us.
You will be missed in so many areas of our lives, and you will forever remain cherished in memory to all of us.
We pray that you have found peace dad and that you know now that God was always with you.
Rest Peacefully Dad.
Love,
Trena, Tanya, and Tiffany.
Lloyd was predeceased by his parents, Sevat and Anna Raaen; sister, Borghild Wangler; brother, Glen Raaen; sister-in-law, Celia Raaen, and nephew, Curtis Raaen. Lloyd is survived by his daughters, Trena (Paul) Gauthier, Tanya (Troy) Lawrence, and Tiffany Raaen; granddaughter, Janae Gauthier; siblings, Shirley (Don) Kirschman, Andrew Raaen, Olaf (Gwen) Raaen, Chris (Doris) Raaen, Ellmer (Rosalee) Raaen; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
John Rainey
1926 - 1999
Mr. John Rainey, of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Mrs. Mildred Rainey, passed away on Friday, Nov. 26, 1999 at the age of 73 years.
John leaves to cherish his memory seven children, Margaret Rainey of Cambridge, Ont., Jack (Donna) Rainey of Kamloops, B.C., Brian Rainey of Cambridge, Ont., Kevin (Marie) Rainey of Medicine Hat, Alta., Sheila Hill of Guelph, Ont., Lesley (Dyke) Gillingham of Dawson Creek, B.C., and Kelly (Jay) Bolen of Medicine Hat, Alta; 17 grandchildren; nine great grandchildren; one sister, Betty (Harry) Anderson of Cambridge, Ontario; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
John was predeceased by his wife, Mildred in 1973; two sons, Michael at birth, and William; his parents, Samuel and Sarah Rainey; and one sister, Margaret Rainey.
John was born on July 18, 1926 in Lisburn, Ireland. At the age of four, he moved with his family to Canada, settling in Cambridge, Ont., where he was raised and educated. When he was 18, he enlisted with the Royal Canadian Navy and was honorably discharged in Halifax.
Soon after his discharge, John marriage Mildred Cox, and together they had nine children.
John's work in the electrical field took him to many places including an extended stay with his family in Peru, and Tumbler Ridge, B.C., of which they had many fond memories. Following the passing of his wife, Mildred, John being the dedicated father he was, continued to raise his five youngest children by himself.
John moved to Medicine Hat in 1998 to be closer to his family.
John lived life to the fullest; he loved his work and was an adventurer at heart. He was an intelligent man with a thirst for knowledge. He loved to read and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with those around him. His co-workers, family and many friends will remember John for his terrific sense of humor, and always-cheerful singing.
The Funeral Service were held in the Saamis Memorial Funeral chapel, #1 Dunmore Road S.E., Medicine Hat, Alta, on Thursday, Dec. 2, 1999 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Loren Hosfield, officiating. The Royal Canadian Legion, Robertson Memorial Branch #17, conducted a Poppy Service for their departed comrade. Cremation will follow at Saamis Prairie View Crematorium, Medicine Hat, Alta. Interment will take place at a later date.
As an expression of sympathy those wishing to remember John Rainey may do so with a gift to the Alberta Heart & Stroke Foundation, #124 - 403 - 6th Ave., S.E., Medicine Hat, Alta., T1H 2S8. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Saamis Memorial Funeral Chapel and Crematorium, "The Chapel in the Park," Medicine Hat, Alta.
Joan Ramstead
Joan Ramstead of Fort St. John died peacefully at her home on Nov. 17, 2001 at the age of 78 years. She fought a lengthy battle with cancer.
A life-long resident of the north, she is survived by her daughter, Arlene Berg of Richmond, B.C., as well as sisters, Betty Fisher of Richmond, B.C. and Phil Rutledge of Arizona.
She was predeceased by her husbands, Charles Berg of Dawson Creek, and Bert Ramstead of Fort St. John. In accordance with her wishes, cremation will be followed by a private Interment. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider supporting the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Joan worked hard to create a humane and compassionate environment for lost and injured pets in Dawson Creek and would have been pleased to know that this legacy will continue after her passing.
Robert Randall
1949 - 2000
Robert Randall was born on July 23, 1949 in Bellville, Ont.
He was the eldest of eight children - four brothers and three sisters. Bobs father, Al, was in the air force while his mother Jo stayed home and raised the children. Being part of a military family, Bob led a gypsy lifestyle, often attending a different school every year, finishing in Kamloops, B.C.
After finishing school, Bob worked from Whitehorse to Victoria. He often told stories of some of his adventures - hopping freights and visiting places like California and Mexico. One of his recent adventures was a wonderful trip that he and Tandy took to England. Going to the place of his heritage and meeting with relatives truly meant a great deal to Bob.
Eventually he ended up in Kamloops where he met many life-long friends. It was there he met and eventually marriage Marji. Marji and Bob, and Marji's two daughters Rachael and Jessica, moved to Dawson Creek. They spent several years here and Bob worked various jobs with oilfield construction companies. Then it was back to Kamloops where he worked on the Coquihalla Highway.
After being single for several years, and working up and down the province, it was again back to Kamloops where in 1989, he met Tandy. Because of the good work connections in Dawson Creek, they returned to live here in 1992. Bob soon went to work for Borek Construction, doing lease building and road construction year round.
A person cannot say enough about Bob and heavy equipment. Next to Tandy, Bob loved heavy equipment and he enjoyed grader work the most. He did oil lease building, access roads into the oil fields, he worked for the Department of Highways (through Borek) during the summer, preparing roads for paving and did graveling and dirt road maintenance. In the winter he did snow removal for Highways and for the City of Dawson Creek. He built snow and ice roads for the oil companies and was a well-respected, well-liked operator. He was often name-requested. Bob continued to work for Borek Construction until his death in September 2000.
Anyone visiting Bob on a summer day would find him at the barbeque. He loved to cook and exchange recipes with friends. He enjoyed music and strumming his guitar and had an amazing memory for artists and tunes. He also had a love for animals and would always have at least one dog - or more. No matter what he was doing, going home to "walk the dog" always took precedent. He would get a chuckle to look behind him and see one or more of their three cats darting in and out of the bushes, following along.
Bob brought laughter to many people and will always be remembered for his booming laugh and lopsided smile. Most of all, we who knew him will remember his deep and enduring love for his best friend - Tandy. Anytime you met Bob, he was either waiting for, going to meet, heading home to cook for, or picking up Tandy. They were an inseperable couple and shared much happiness.
Bob leaves to mourn his soul mate, Tandy, his parents Al and Jo, Clifford, Dianne, Wendy (Joe), James (Fiona), Derrick, Denise (Gerald), Greg (Lisa). Nephews, Curtis, Rusty, Ben, and Dillon. Nieces, Jennifer, Melissa, Catlin, Chantel, Micheala and Alyssa.
Funeral services were held on Sept. 16 at 1 p.m. from Reynar's Chapel
Arrangements were under the care of Reynar's Funeral Chapel and Crematorium, Dawson Creek, B.C.
William Delbert Rasmussen
1939 - 2000
On October 6, 2000, Delbert (Del) Rasmussen passed away suddenly at the age of 61 years.
A memorial service was held on Tuesday Oct. 10. at 2 p.m. at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, with Father Chris Lynch officiating. Cremation followed.
Del leaves to mourn his loving wife Grace (Bunny) of 42 years; three daughters, Cindy (Luke) Graziani of Kitimat, B.C., Heather (Dario) Romito of Duncan, B.C., Madeleine (Morris) Mickalyk of Bonnyville, Alta; eight grandchildren, Daniel, Justin, Maurice, Ryan, Curtis, Stephanie, Chad and Corrine; two sisters, Sheila (Orville) O'Brien, and Betty Hamilton. He will also be remembered by many nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the
Diabetes Research Foundation, 15 Toronto St., Suite 800, Toronto, Ontario, M5C 2E3.
Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd. of Dawson Creek, B.C.
Leslie Readman
1938 - 2001
Les was born March 12, 1938 in Fairview, Alberta and passed away Feb. 3, 2001 in Edmonton, Alberta at age 62. He is survived by son Doug (Mary), daughters Corinne (John), Laurie (Tony), seven grandchildren, mother Josephine Readman, twin brother Wes (Arlene), brothers Don (Marlene) and Earl (Bonnie), sisters Wilma Hodson (Brooke), sister-in-law Martha Readman and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his father Douglas and brother Doug. A memorial service was held Friday, Feb. 9, 2001 at the St. John Heritage Church in Colwood, B.C.
Kathy Regnier 1946-2001
Kathy Regnier, resident of Dawson Creek, British Columbia passed away on June 21, 2001, at the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, at 54 years of age.
A memorial service was held at 2:00 p.m. on June 26, 2001 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek. Kathy's cremated remains were interred in the Dawson Creek City Cemetery, with her father, Bill, and her two children, Lori and Wade.
Kathy was born in Dawson Creek on July 23, 1946. She had a happy and busy childhood. During her school years she was an active sports enthusiast; participating in running, basketball and volleyball. Although she was only 5' 2" tall, she had the determination to excel in these sports. She was an avid baseball and hockey fan. Kathy and her dad would religiously watch the World Series and Stanley Cup. To this day she could not pass up watching a good World Series or Stanley Cup Playoff.
Kathy met Roger in a local TV studio where Roger's band, 'The Nighthawks' were performing for a TV show. Kathy was the production manager of the show. They fell in love and were marriage in 1964. She quickly became a member of the Regnier family.
In 1972, she received the greatest gift she had ever wished for; Shad was born. She spent the rest of her life being a good mother. She became a great mother - caring loving and nurturing him. You could always see a special sparkle in her eye whenever she so proudly spoke of Shad.
Kathy loved nature - rolling hills, mountains, lush green grass and trees. She loved birds and was constantly looking in her bird book to identify a bird she had seen fly overhead. She was an enthusiastic gardener and loved to grow flowers and plants. Her family remembers the look on her face when the first peas were ready to eat, and of course, the first baby potatoes would bring her to total happiness.
She had a deep love of animals. Kathy and Roger never went without a puppy as part of their lives.
Kathy had a way of drawing people to her. She could meet a stranger and within minutes she would have the person telling her their life story. She seldom offered advice or criticism, she just offered a sympathetic shoulder for people to lean on. Kids were drawn to her like a magnet. She loved kids and kids loved her. For several years she worked with handicapped kids and it was hard for her not to take them home with her on the weekends.
It is doubtful that Kathy had any enemies, for once you said "hello" to her, you had a dear friend for life. Although she sometimes got hurt by someone, she could still see the good in them. Kathy was a very strong and private person and would not burden other people with her problems. She strongly believed that whatever problems she had she could work them out herself. Although she went out of her way to listen to, help, care for, and love others; she would not let her feelings and problems burden anyone else.
Throughout her working career she always became a trusted, respected, and loyal friend as an employee. She could always be depended on to go that extra mile for the good of everything. With her little smile and caring, she could turn an irate, discontented customer into a lifelong happy client.
Kathy will be missed by all who had the opportunity to meet her and fall in love with "little Kathy" with shoulders as wide as the whole world.
"What the heart gives away is never forgotten. It's kept in the hearts of others".
Kathy was predeceased by her parents, Bill and Hannah Jones, and two children, Lori and Wade.
She will be lovingly remembered by her husband Roger; son, Shad; brother Ron (Mary) Watson; sister, Bonnie (Jack) Cornish; brothers in-law, Ed (Diane) Regnier, Leo (Linda) Regnier, and Paul (Dona) Regnier; sister-in-law, Yvette (Ralph) Robson; mother in-law, Emerance Regnier; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Wilmer Shadlock Reid
1924 - 2000
Mr. Wilmer Shadlock Reid passed away March 18, 2000 in Grande Prairie, Alberta at the age of 75 years.
Wilmer was born in Avonlea, Saskatchewan Aug. 22, 1924.
He took schooling in Hythe, then moved with his family to the homestead at Gundy where he farmed and drove chuckwagons on the rodeo circuit. He was also known for excellence in harness making. In later years, he was involved in judging heavy horse pulling contests.
Wilmer moved back to Hythe in 1998, residing at the Hythe Pioneer Home, until, due to illness, he was moved to MacKenzie Place at the beginning of March 2000.
Wilmer is survived by one brother; Robert (Martha) Reid of Grande Prairie, Alberta; one sister Joy (Jim) Currie of Tomslake, B.C.; three nieces; Melodie (Brian) Wilton, Joy (Gordon) Dirks, Merrill (Richard) Young; two nephews, Darrel (Barb) Reid, Barry (Cori) Reid and two close friends, Kenneth Moore and Ronald Bain. He was predeceased by his parents, Robert and Grace Reid and niece Carolyn Joy Currie.
A funeral service was held Saturday, March 25, 2000 at 2 p.m. from the Gundy Community Hall with Rev. Harold Peters officiating. Interment followed in the Gundy Community Cemetery.
If friends so desire, donations may be made to the charity of their choice.
Wilton Funeral Homes was entrusted with the arrangements.
Wilmer Shadlock Reid
1924 - 2000
Wilmer Shadlock Reid was born August 22, 1924 in Avonlea, Saskatchewan and passed away Saturday, March 18, 2000 at Mackenzie Place, Grande Prairie Hospital at the age of 75 years.
The first five years of Wilmer's life was lived on the prairies, south of Moose Jaw, in a small farming community called Crystal Hill, Sask. In the fall of 1929, the family left the dry, dusty prairies and moved to Hythe, Alberta.
Wilmer attended the original Hythe school. He loved anything with a challenge. Possibly, that was why "hockey and horses" became the main interests of his life.
On his ninth birthday, after many months of training, he celebrated by riding a calf down the main street of town, much to the amazement and the amusement of everyone who saw him. This became a common sight as he would take this mode of transportation to pick up mail or pick up a few groceries.
Wilmer worked alongside his dad in Hythe, helping him as a waterman, drayman and a jack of all trades.
Wilmer had a soft spot in his heart for animals. More than once he arrived home with a cat or dog. Another time it was an orphaned lamb - barely big enough to fill a shoebox, but she was nurtured and raised by hand becoming his prize pet. "Nannie" provided wool for many a warm comforter over the years.
For the most part, Wilmer was a free and easygoing spirit. One of his greatest achievements was that of harness maker. His work received praise from anyone who saw it. For years he farmed in the Gundy area. During the fall fair and rodeo season, though, chuckwagon racing took priority. From the Peace River Country down through the Interior, people know the name of Wilmer Reid. Even though he hung up the reins years ago, during rodeo season you would know where to find him.
Living with the care and companionship of Ken Moore and his family, Wilmer lived independently until two years ago when he entered the Hythe Seniors' Home.
Wilmer was predeceased by his parents; Robert H. Reid in 1958 and Grace M. Reid in 1960, followed by his niece Carolyn Joy Currie in 1970.
Left to mourn are his brother Bob, his sister Joy, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews, their families and two special friends, Ken Moore and Ron Bain.
The Reid and Currie families wanted to express their deepest gratitude to each of you who have helped us through our time of loss and we want you to know how much we have appreciated it. Thank you to those who came to the funeral to celebrate the life of this "old cowboy".
Funeral services were held March 25 at the Gundy Community Hall with the Rev. Harold Peters officiating. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Wilton Funeral Home, Slave Lake, Alberta. Interment was held at the Gundy Community Cemetery. Thanks to the Gundy community for the use of the hall and the lunch that was served after the service.
Frances Arnell Rettberg (nee Wallace)
On August 31, 2000, Frances Arnell Rettberg passed away at the age of 83 years.
Left to mourn her loss and cherish memories, her son Joe and his wife Marilyn of Edson, Alta.; her daughter Florence and her husband Al Lauzon of Chase, B.C.
Also Surviving are seven grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren as well as her sisters Harriet McCoy of Dawson Creek, B.C.; Martha Radley of Courtney, B.C.; and Carmen Wallace of Victoria, B.C. There are numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and a host of friends left to mourn as well.
Frances Rettberg was predeceased by her parents Nellie Wallace (Peever) in 1935 and Thomas Wallace in 1938 and her sibling Jessie Bjorge in 1962, brothers William Wallace in 1965, Stanley Wallace in 1988, Harry Wallace, Allen Wallace in 1937.
Funeral Services for Frances Rettberg took place on Wednesday , Sept. 6, 2000 from the Bonanza Community Hall, Bonanza, Alta. Interment followed in the Hillhaven Cemetery in Bonanza.
Arrangements were under the care of Reynar's Funeral Chapel and Crematorium.
Dennis Arthur Riggs
1948-2001
Dennis Arthur Riggs, resident of Dawson Creek, British Columbia passed away in Dawson Creek, on June 19, 2001 at 52 years of age. A graveside committal service was held at 11:00 am at the Brookside Cemetery, Dawson Creek, followed by a memorial service at 1 p.m. at the Rolla Baptist Church, with Pastor Gary Henderson officiating.
Dennis was born on August 29, 1948 in Vancouver, British Columbia, one of six children to Arthur and Helen Riggs (nee Johnson).
Dennis was predeceased by his parents, Arthur and Helen, and brothers, Warren and David.
He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, EveAnne; children, Terri-Lynn Vandennakker, Kent (Rebekah) Riggs, and Melissa Riggs; grandchildren, Curtis, Sharalyn, Cple, and Anastasia; brothers, Julian (Gail) Riggs, Jerome (Kathy) Riggs; sister, Jeannette Riggs; sister in-law, Jan Riggs.
Dennis was very important to his wife's family, and will always be remembered, especially by his nieces and nephews.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Alexander Stewart Robertson
1922 - 2001
Alex Robertson, resident of Bessborough, British Columbia, passed away suddenly on November 13, 2001 at the University Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta, at 79 years of age. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 17, 2001 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, with Beverly Dunsmore officiating. Cremation followed.
Alex was born to Rachel and James on September 7, 1922, in Highvale, Alberta. He was the ninth child, and the youngest son of ten children - two brothers, and seven sisters. His family moved to the homestead in Bessborough when Alex was a small boy in 1930. Lots of hard work and hard times, but company was always a welcome treat. Joe Verdzak was the first visitor in their new home.
Alex attended school in the home of his teacher, Mr. Sutherland. The school consisted of three families. He completed Grade 9 at the first Willowbrook School.
When Alex was 18 he was proud to go and serve his country. He was assigned to the 10th Field Squadron, compiled of the boys from the Peace River Area. He did his tour overseas and was discharged in December of 1945.
With the men away in the army, the sisters came home with their children to await everyone's return. Two nephews, Frank Ward and Ellison Williams, were a great help during that time and were very special to Alex.
Alex returned briefly to the home place to visit the family. He then went logging in southern BC for a few years before returning to the farm. He purchased and took over operation of the farm in 1950 when his parents retired to New Westminster.
He met, fell in love with and marriage Edith Fildes (better known as 'Babs') in 1952. Their daughter Joan was born the spring of 1953. Dad fondly remembered Joan as a little tyke following him about the farm, curious about what he was doing.
Their son, Rodney, was born in 1955. He was a quiet, easy-going child. Over the years of observing his father, Rodney acquired many useful skills. Alex could hay wire anything together and make it work.
The youngest daughter, Heather, was born in the spring of 1958. She slept through her first year, gaining her strength to compete with her siblings.
Alex was very partial to his old one tonne 1950 Chev grain truck, which he purchased new in 1950. It is still on the farm and running today. As a matter of fact, he had just finished hauling his winter wood supply with it. Years later he made a make shift camper for it so he could take his family on a real holiday. The 'modern' motor home definitely created a lot of attention.
In his younger days, Alex loved to play a good ball game, and later spent many hours playing horseshoes.
Alex farmed in the summer and often worked out in the winter months - cutting ice with John Lewis for selling to the rural schools. He also went falling trees.
Alex remarriage in 1988 to Beatrice McKenzie. They were marriage for seven years before Bea's passing. He had a very close bond to Bea's family.
Alex was an original dresser - always in a muscle shirt, shorts, and sometimes with gumboots - and always with a cap of some sort. He was also very artistic; he liked to arrange artifacts into unique arrangements in the yard - definitely a conversation piece.
He retired from farming in the late 70's, but re-entered it in 'advice only' when Rodney and his family moved onto the farm in 1988. He enjoyed having younger children on the farm again. Alex wasn't sure how he felt when Rod introduced reindeer to the farm in 1990, but after a couple of months of being around them he really began to enjoy the deer.
Alex enjoyed travelling to different areas, always keeping in touch with his family and friends. He was grateful to have his life-long friend, Dan Lewis, accompany him to Whitehorse this summer. He especially enjoyed Liard Hot Springs. His heart was always with his home, and he would never leave the farm for any length of time.
Alex is remembered by his children as the strong tower they could always turn to at any time. Always very loving, caring, comforting, a very hard working and knowledgeable man, a great teacher and guide, and a very loyal friend. He is greatly missed by all.
He was predeceased by his wife, Bea; parents, Rachel and James Robertson; brothers, Duncan and Hugh; sisters, Jean, Kate, Liza, Mary, and Julie; in-laws, Charlie and Norman Kitchen, Charles and Edna Hutchinson.
He is survived by his three children, Joan (Rob) Crossley, Rod (Lois) Robertson, Heather (Don) Kobasiuk; stepson, Bob (Elaine) Peterson; grandchildren, Jason (Kari) Robertson, Sandra (Matt) Erixon, Brent (Kim) Boyko, Terry Kobasiuk, Tracey (Chris) Comer, Ken (Crystal) Boyko, Kelly Robertson, Gary, Robbin and Jackie Peterson, and Dana Duncan; great-grandchildren, Montana and Zachory Erixon, Bradley & Briawna Boyko, and Riley Comer; brother to twins, Chris and Agnus Robertson; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., of Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Susan Jeanne Robertson
1960 - 1999
Susan Jeanne Robertson passed away on December 5, 1999 in the Dawson Creek and District Hospital after a lengthy battle with cancer in the arms of her Clarence, and with family and friends Janeen and Dorothy at her bedside.
Susan was born on March 31, 1960 in Victoria, British Columbia. She was the youngest of six children born to David and Zeata Spittal; and was a great surprise to her Mom and Dad as they only expected Andrew! Wow two for one! Ñ small, cute and cuddly, weighing 4 pounds 10 ounces, remaining loveable until her passing.
Even though she was the youngest she was always headstrong. She knew what she wanted and usually got it as Andrew can attest to, as he had to share her playpen. Family meant a lot to Susan and she loved them all unconditionally. Some childhood memories that will be cherished are the special language the twins shared, especially their nicknames for each other. Susan called Andrew "I" and Andrew called Susan "me", which explains that although able to recite the alphabet by the age of three, Susan insisted the letter U was actually "me"!
Susan moved back with her family to Dawson Creek in 1965. Many happy Christmases were spent at Grandpa and Nanny Spittal's where at times there were often 30 to 35 people gathered together to celebrate. This included 12 kids ranging in ages from six to 16. The girls remember the time they were all caught in a blue fog in Janet and Mary Irene's bedroom insisting to Nanny none of them had been smoking. Meanwhile there sat Susan in the middle of the bed, smoke in hand.
Her sister Elizabeth's fondest memory is Susan and Andrews's fascination with animals. They often brought home all kinds of neat treasures including snakes, mice, birds and puppies.
Throughout her teens Susan was involved as a corporal in Cadets, Brownies, CGIT, bowling and won awards for marksmanship. She attended school at Tremblay Elementary, Central Jr. High and graduated from South Peace in 1978.
Being a real people person, Susan's work history found her in jobs involving working with and serving the public, such as working for BC Tel, McDermott's; where she met and later marriage her late husband Alan Robertson. She also worked at Huskies in Pouce Coupe, babysitting her godchildren and being a homemaker. Susan took great pride in her home. There was a place for everything and everything was in its place. This included Clarence's sock drawer. Her hobbies included cross-stitching, from which she made many masterpieces. She loved bingo and that was her game.
After becoming ill, she learned and attacked crocheting with much enthusiasm, which the nurses marveled at, since she managed to complete an astounding 15 1/2 Afghans in a short two and a half months. She also kept herself busy making stained glass mobiles, painting ceramic Christmas tree ornaments, doing crosswords, and doing search and find puzzles.
Susan also made a scarf for Peter Boronowski and a special blanket for Brittany's dolls. Yet she would still take time for the odd smoke and coffee break. She was very lucky at scratch and wins, however when Clarence started claiming a kiss for every dollar won she tried even harder to win.
Room 205 will never be the same because it became her home away from home, where her female support group could frequently be found busy making afghans, as she taught a lot of them how to crochet. It was for this reason that they were lovingly named the "Happy Hookers".
Her special little ones who came to visit, Braydon, Brittany, Ben, Cody and Mitchell brought a special joy to her life as well as numerous pieces of artwork to grace her walls. She immensely enjoyed the opportunity to help the kids with their homework. She took great pride in ensuring all words were spelled correctly. Mitchell and Brittany were especially grateful as each time she practiced with them they were certain to get 100 per cent.
Her great-nephews Riley and Levi also brought Auntie Susan their masterpieces that she proudly displayed. Her room was filled with trinkets and her special stuffed toys and angels, which came from family and all the friends she made while in the hospital. She especially cherished the special candle from her nephew Dillon, although sadly she never had the chance to burn it.
Susan spoke often of one of the highlights this year; being her three-month stay with her twin Andrew, his wife Connie and niece Alexis. Although she had the ordeal of radiation to tend with, this was a special time for her. October 31 was a happy day for her as well, as she waited in anticipation to see the little ones flaunt their costumes and receive their special treats.
Susan was lucky to find friendship in Janeen, as someone whom she could depend on for support, to listen and confide in. Dorothy will always be remembered for her special times with Susan listening to music, and by being her personal reader from Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul for hours at a time, even right up until the last half hour before her death.
Susan was also blessed to have had two wonderful years with a man with which she had shared a 25 year friendship. His dedication to her and the depth of his love was incredible. Her face would light up every time he came to see her.
One of Susan's greatest losses was the loss of her hair. However, Dr. Boronowski raised her spirits by complimenting her earrings, and of course it made all the difference to have Clarence tell her he didn't love her for her hair, and he thought she had the cutest little ears.
There are no words to describe the love that flowed in Susan's room, or the dedication that came from her sister Christine. Since her parents were unable to be there, she needed a lot of support from her sister. It was apparent to all that they had a bond greater than just sisters, as Christine was like a mother to her.
At times people often thought Mary, Irene and Christine were her mom, neither ever complained just proudly claimed her. It was a gift to all who spent time with her to know how much she appreciated them.
Especially her Auntie Mary Irene, niece Linda, cousins, Tammy, Charlie, Tracy, Tina and Ronna Lynn, Auntie Janet and her Nanny Spittal. Her friends Janeen, Dorothy, Helen, Joy, Eileen and Rose and her big buddy Sonny; all of whom spent many hours just being with Susan. She enjoyed having sleepovers and junk food binges, which kept Clarence busy running for donuts, McDonald's and all kinds of treats. She found it hard to be alone and wanted positive people around her. Thank you to all the husbands who made it possible for her friends to be there for her - without their support, it would not have been possible.
A special thank you to Dr. Boronowski. Susan thought of him as more than just a doctor. He was a great friend with whom she loved to share jokes and hugs. We will remember all the hugs he had for her, especially when he went on holidays and gave her a hug for every day he would be gone. We are especially grateful for him also eating the tapioca puddings since Susan never liked to waste!
Thank you to all the incredibly loving and caring nurses on second floor, Dr. Ashfelt, Dr. Evan, Joy and Lenore for their healing touch and especially Palliative care. Family and friends were her love, and all of you became like extended family to all of us. A special thank you to anyone we may have missed mentioning, as in the last four months Susan found much encouragement, joy and love from all of you who came to room 205 to be with her.
Susan; wife, sister and friend, you are at peace now. We all hope that we can face our own trials and tribulations with as much bravery as you have shown us. As even when facing her own death, she attended her step-grandfather's funeral and consoled us with the words, " even though people die, go to heaven and are sadly missed - life goes on". You will be greatly missed, never forgotten. - And always loved!
Susan was predeceased by her infant brother Ian Spittal, grandpa David Spittal, grandpa Alfred Sharp, granny Elizabeth Sharp, step-grandpa Cliff Ross, step-niece Dawn-Marie Trail, aunt Virgie and numerous aunts and uncles.
Susan leaves to mourn her husband Clarence Ronquist; parents David and Zeata Spittal; grandmother Cecile Spittal; brothers and sisters David (Carmel) Spittal, Christine (George) Waller, Elizabeth Leschert, and Andrew (Connie) Spittal; nieces and nephews Robin Spittal, Georg (Linda) Waller, Jodianne and James Waller, Alexis Spittal, Erika and Nicole Leschert; great nephews Riley and Levi Waller, and Dillon Waller; Aunts and Uncles Mary-Irene (Wolf) Redies, Ron Spittal and Janet (Gordon) Vamplew; cousins Tammy (Charlie) Potratz, Tracy (Scott) Jones, Ronna-Lynn (Sonny) Berkner, Jerralyn and Tina Woodcox, Terry Woodcox, Llynden Vamplew; second cousins Braden, Brittnay and Ben Potratz, Cody and Mitchell Jones and Brandi Berkner (Matt), and numerous other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins too many to mention.
Funeral Service was held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 9, 1999 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, with Reverend Judy Hare officiating. Interment followed in the Riverview Cemetery, Pouce Coupe, British Columbia.
Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
