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Violet (Corsbie) Herriott
1922 - 2000
Violet (Corsbie) Herriott born May 30, 1922 passed away Dec. 24, 2000.
Violet (Corsbie) Herriott came to the Peace River Country in 1928 with her family and resided in Shearer Dale, B.C.
She marriage a Canadian soldier, Norm Herriott. While in the Army, she toured the country and even spent two years in Germany. After the war was over they made their home to Abbotsford, B.C. She had a stroke 20 years ago and was in a care home; always in good spirits she loved telling jokes and making patients laugh.
She leave to mourn her loss, husband Norm Herriott, their three children Donna, Sherry and Doug, one grandchild James, also three sisters, Mrs. Patricia Streeper, twin sister Pansy Lowery, and younger sister Mrs. Amy Vipond, and several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her mother and father, older sister Dorothy Burton, two brothers Joe and Bert Corsbie, two nieces Gladys Burton, Elaine Streeper and George Burton.
She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Dean Alfred Hingley
Dean Alfred Hingley passed away suddenly at Kinbasket Lake, Mica Creek, B.C. on Sunday, May 27, 2001 at 63 years of age.
He will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by wife Bernie of Armstrong; three sons, Trevor (Lorna) and grandchildren Tyrell, Jannell, Jessica and Payden of Dawson Creek; Danny (Andrea) and grandchild Sammy Jo of Nanaimo; Michael of Grande Prairie; daughter Deana (Brian) Bildson and grandchildren Jennifer, Kathy, Jason and Mellisa of Grande Prairie; two brothers Orville (Vi) of Bonanza, Alberta and Lon (Shelley) of Dawson Creek; sister Nina (Tony) Cyzban of Bonanza and nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his parents and brother Greg.
A life-long Bonanza, Alberta resident, Dean moved to Armstrong two years ago. He farmed and worked in the pipeline industry until retiring. Dean enjoyed fishing, hunting and cribbage.
Funeral services were held at 1 p.m. Friday, June 1, 2001 at Mountain View Chapel, Armstrong. Reverend Ken Jones officiated. Cremation followed. Arrangements were in the care of the Mountain View Funeral Home, Armstrong.
James Frederick Hodgson a.k.a. Jim Driver
1928 - 1999
James Frederick Hodgson, also known as Jim Driver, passed away on Nov. 1, 1999 in Prince George, British Columbia at the age of 71. He was born on August 8, 1928 in Notikewin, Alberta.
He came to this region at an early age where he remained, with a few exceptions, for his entire life.
As a boy, he enjoyed teasing his siblings; especially his sister Doris. Jim was always there for his family; whether it was rescuing them from misguided childhood adventures, or buying them things they needed, as in Doris' first and only pair of figure skates. He continued to be there for them as they grew into adulthood; sending his sister Lola to commercial school, and helping sister Doris with mechanical work on her car, and helping her move when she needed to.
Jim was a "Cat Skinner" by trade, and as his friends said: "He was one of the best!" He loved his job and there was nowhere he wouldn't go to do it.
Jim was predeceased by his parents Claude and Margaret Driver in 1979, his brother Angus Gus Driver on February 8, 1995, and his niece Marianne in October 1995.
He leaves to mourn his brothers Gordon Driver, Don (Roma) Edwards, his sisters Lola Wall, and Doris (Joe) Barabas, as well as many other family and friends.
Funeral Service was held on Friday, Nov. 5, 1999 at 2 p.m. at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, British Columbia with Reverend Judy Hare officiating. Cremation followed.
Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, British Columbia.
Peter Hofer
1917 - 1999
Funeral services for Peter Hofer were held on Thursday, Dec. 16 at South Peace Colony. Relatives and friends came from as far away as Washington, Sask., and all parts of Alberta. Honorary Pallbearers were his friends and the Pallbearers were his grandsons Jonathon (Quill Lake), Tom (Mix), Tommy (Quill Lake), and David, Tommy and Sammy of Dawson Creek Colony. Reynar's Funeral Home and Crematorium were in care of arrangements.
Peter Hofer passed away in the Dawson Creek Hospital on Dec. 13, 1999.
He was born on Dec. 1, 1917, in Frankford, South Dakota.
At the age of one year, Peter moved to Fort MacLeod, Alberta with his family. In 1930, he moved to Graunm Colony. It was there in 1938 he marriage Mary Tschetter.
In 1949 he moved to Hott Colony in Irma where he was Field Boss for many years. He became a minister in 1952.
In 1960 he moved to Minburn where he farmed for 17 years. From there he moved to Dawson Creek where the first Hutterite Colony was established in B.C.
Peter lived a very active life. He enjoyed farming, the outdoors and working with the bees.
He leaves to mourn; four sisters; five sons, Mike (Sara), Jake (Esther), Dave (Rachel), Lenord (Becky), and George, all of Dawson Creek; three daughters, Lena (Paul), Esther (Jake), of Quill Lake Sk., and Barbara (Martin) of Minburn Sk. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his loving wife Mary in 1998.
My life's been full, I've savored much,
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.
Perhaps the times seemed all too brief,
don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now; He set me free.
Walter Roy Hogenson
1933 - 2000
Walter Roy Hogenson also lovingly known as 'Wally', 'Disney', or 'Dis', passed away on June 23 of this year 2000. A memorial service was held at 2 p.m. on June 28, 2000 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, B.C.
He was a long time resident of the Peace River District, having come to this area in 1969. Walter assisted in the construction of many major projects through out BC, Yukon, and in Morocco and Jordan. He had a good reputation as a diamond driller and a general laborer among his peers. Walter took pride in his work, particularly his contribution to the construction of the WAC Bennett Dam.
Wally is deeply missed by his family in Dawson Creek. He had initially resided with Lillian Hansen as a boarder but, over the years, he became a trusted friend and deeply loved member of the family. Walter came to be regarded as a stepfather to Lillian Hansen's three children (Carl, Lynn, April) and was known to Lillian's grandchildren (Carl Jr., Ronald, and Alanna Hansen, Todd, Tammy, Kerrie, and Kriek Haney) as Grandpa Wally.
Wally is dearly missed and his loss deeply felt. Wally was very concerned about his children and grandchildren. He was very kind, loving, and playful and thrived on card games, good movies, Nintendo games, and gardening. Sundays were the family barbecue times at Wally's acreage in Arras. These times with Wally will be fondly remembered and greatly missed. He grew tomatoes and peas to share with the family.
Wally had many friends that he deeply valued, and some of these have already passed on before him. Wally asked that his friends remember him in good health and in good times. He was very grateful for his family and friends and had felt that he had lived a full life.
The cause of the cancer that took Wally from us was traced to his work with asbestos forty years ago. Wally fought bravely with dignity during the year of 1999-2000 until his death on June 23. He never complained about his condition, and he stayed optimistic and in good spirits until the last day, always worrying about those around him more than himself. He showed all of us that humour, grace, and dignity can be shown if one has the courage and spirit to do so, even through the most difficult times. The family of Walter Hogenson will miss him dearly, but are comforted knowing that Wally resides in a place with no pain and no worries.
They thank all of those who showed up at Wally's funeral, and that in our time of grieving we apologize to anyone we did not contact. Donations can be made at the cancer society, and the family would like to remind the community and surrounding areas about the health risks of working with asbestos contaminated areas without the proper use of industry certified coveralls, gloves, and ventilation breathing system.
We would like to thank Dr. Stephen Ashwell, and Carolyn. Wally believed in angels, and God sent his best. We would also like to thank Gerry and Peggy Bergeron for your help and understanding. Thank you to the staff at Peace River Haven, Wally's stay was short, but you all made him feel special. Also, a big thanks to the nurses on 2nd floor at Dawson Creek Hospital. - Carl and Maryann, Lynn and Dale, April and Scott, and families. Funeral Arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, B.C.
Beatrice Louise Margret Horrill
1929 - 2002
On Jan. 2, 2002, our beloved mother and friend, Beatrice Louise Margret (nee Erickson) Horrill, entered into eternal sleep, to suffer no more.
Mom was born on Aug. 8, 1929. She leaves to cherish her memory, a son, Alvin Horrill of Vancouver, B.C.; a daughter Geraldine Gebhardt (Albert Drotar) of Brandon Manitoba; Mom's sisters, Linda Anderson (Orville) of Hudson Bay, Sask., and Mabel Bickner (Floyd) of Prince George, B.C.; her brothers Leif Erickson (Jean) of Anglemont, B.C., and Robert Erickson of Profit River, B.C.; her granddaughter Jackie Simpson (Ken Kidd); great granddaughters Melissa Stevenson and Kaytlen Kidd and her extended family, the Wildeman families of B.C. and Alberta.
Mom was a friend to all she met. She had a smile for everyone and lent a helping hand to anyone in need. Mom was called a "nice lady" by many.
At Mom's request, there will be no service.
In Mom's memory and in lieu of flowers, please give to those in need.
Walter Huk
1931-2001
It is with great sorrow that the family announces the passing of our dear husband, father and grandfather on Oct. 29, 2001 at the age of 70 years.
He leaves to mourn his loving wife Lillian; two sons, Gary (Cindy) and Dale (Sheri); two daughters, Linda and Della (Brian) DeVeer; seven grandchildren, Travis, Kim, Brandon, Talia and Tegan Huk, Dustin and Devon Vogel-DeVeer, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Walter was born in Spedden, Alberta on March 25, 1931. He was the youngest child born to John and Katherine Huk. Walter was predeceased by his parents, sisters Anne and Nancy, and his two brothers, Bill and Harry.
Walter completed Grade 10 at Vilna High school. His adventurous spirit soon led him north to the Peace River country in 1948. Walter was fascinated by the country and soon filed on a quarter of land. In October 1955, he marriage Lillian Dingman of Baldonnel, B.C. Together they continued to farm until their retirement in October 1998.
Walter was very community-minded and served on various boards throughout his life. His friendly manner and sense of hunour, I'm sure, put everyone at ease. He was especially fond of sports like baseball and curling - both as an organizer and a participant in his earlier years and as a spectator in later years. Hockey was always a favorite spectator sport.
He was many things to many people... an employer, a friend, a son, a brother, an uncle, a loving husband, a devoted father and a proud grandfather. In whatever capacity we knew him best, we all knew him to be generous, fair, caring and compassionate. He was a humble and hospitable man who truly appreciated people. Lillian was always prepared to set another place at the table because she knew that regardless of who drove into the yard, a neighbor, a mechanic, or a traveling salesman, they would be invited in and it was not always easy for them to get away. Walter had a keen mind and was a great conversationalist.
He instilled a sense of honesty and integrity in his children. His life was an excellent role model for them to follow. Walter was very proud of his family including his seven grandchildren. Although his health prevented him from traveling during the past year, he spent countless hours looking through photo albums and showing the most recent pictures of his grandchildren to his friends. It was at these times that a warm, genuine, sincere smile would appear, combined with a sparkle and twinkle in his eye.
Walter and Lillian left the district in '98, moving to Onoway, Alberta. With Walters' health failing, they wanted to be closer to medical specialists in the city. While living in Onoway, they made many new friends. They looked forward and appreciated the many visitors from "home" who stopped for visits on their way to the city. During the first two years they were able to make several trips back to the Peace River Country to visit family and friends, however the last year Walter spent much time in and out of hospitals.
Funeral services were held in Fort St. John, B.C. on Nov. 5 at the Peace Lutheran Church with Pastor Ron Bjorgan officiating. Interment followed at the Cecil Lake Cemetery.
A tribute to a special friend.
I am Ed Carlson and am going to saw a few words in celebration of Walter's life.
Walter was born and raised not far from where I was born and raised. I did not meet Walter until about 1957 at Dawson Creek.
A friend in Dawson Creek informed me that he and Walter worked together in putting on the roof of the new Co-Op store in 1948.
Walter was an avid sports fan, he played baseball in the district for many years and never missed a tournament if it was at all possible and made sure he listened to NHL hockey on winter nights.
Walter worked for a number of years for Wally Newman on his farm picking roots, clearing land and all the other farm duties. All the work was back-breaking in those days, but Walter could always stop and have a chat or smile about something that happened. One of the funny stories that happened at Wally's place was about a huge sow called Sally that always presented the farm with 10 or 12 pigs every spring. Sally took up residence in a building that Wally called his elevator. One fall we backed up the truck to the loading chute three or four days before loading up the pigs. One day Walter and I were to help load and our job was to take a big grain door and put it in front of one of the doorways and while Wally went around the other side to rouse the pigs and hopefully they would run up the chute. Wally roused them from their sleep before Walter and I got the door in place and consequently Sally, who weighted 700 pounds, and 12 pigs took a run for the opening and knocked Walter and I down in the mud and ran right over us. Nothing more was done that day but to get cleaned up. A lot of things people in this district take for granted, electricity, telephones, better roads, Walter was not afraid to meet the appropriate people and lobby for improvements.
In closing, I would like to say this verse. God looked around his farmland and found an empty space
He looked down upon the earth and saw Walter's tired face
He put his arms around him and lifted him to rest
God's farm must be beautiful, for he only takes the best
Bruce Howard Holmes
1920 - 2000
Bruce Howard Holmes resident of Pouce Coupe, British Columbia passed away on October 25, 2000 at 80 years of age.
A memorial service was held on Monday, Oct. 30 at the Bergeron Funeral Chapel, Dawson Creek, with Captain Joan Shayler officiating.
Bruce's cremated remains were interred in his son's grave in the Dawson Creek City Cemetery.
Bruce Howard Holmes was born in Dryden, Ontario on May 21, 1920. He moved with his family by train to Hythe, Alta. and by taxi to Pouce Coupe. When he was a young child, school was not his favourite place nor did we gather that he was a favourite with his teachers. When Emma tried to get school records she was told he didn't exist; although there were stories of pranks played by Bruce including tipping over an outhouse with his teacher inside. Emma heard many a story of Bruce's school days.
Bruce joined the army in June 1940. While in England in 1944, he met and marriage Joyce, and together they had their first son David. He was discharged from the army in 1945 and he brought Joyce to Dawson Creek. The year of 1945 also brought great sadness, as their son David became ill and passed away. Joyce and their second son passed away in Pouce Coupe in 1947, leaving Bruce very lonely.
In 1950, a great love came into his life as he met and marriage Emma. They had five children: Jody, born in 1951, Aleene in 1952, twins Debbie & Derrie in 1955 and Donna-Lynn in 1961. In the early years, Bruce worked as a bus driver between Dawson Creek and Whitehorse. He also drove school bus and worked as a mechanic and janitor for the school board.
In 1954, Bruce was a bodyman and mechanic for Aspol Motors. When Aspol's started a new division called Aspol Home & Auto, selling Skidoos and Honda motorcycles, Bruce elected to work in that department. These machines were one of his great loves and he became known as "Mr Skidoo."
Many a late night was spent in the shop with help from Emma setting up new machines. Riding skidoos and bikes was a very big part of the Holmes family life. Camping year round; in the summer his motorhome would pull the Hondas, and in the winter it pulled the skidoos. Bruce, Emma and a couple of friends, started the Paradise Valley Snowmobile club in 1969. Cleaning out trails to ride on just gave Bruce another reason to be out in the bush. He and Emma built several cabins for people to warm up during rides. Bruce was very proud in 1998 when they won the 'Snowmobile Family' of the year award.
Bruce loved the bush, the forest, nature and beautiful things. One of his other favourites was his truck, it was amazing at how often it got washed and shined even when he was out in the bush. Being out in the bush with his family was Bruce's life. He also loved music and was very artistic. He spent many an evening playing banjo or the accordion while the kids all sang. Of course, it was Emma's job to put his instruments away. Anyone who camped with Bruce knows how often you heard him yell "Emma!"
His demeanor in those days was very calm, quiet (yah right) and you never heard him raise his voice except to beller. Quite often his bellering lead to an event that the family referred to as a "snit." As the children got older they discovered that even referring to a snit caused a snit. Finally Emma had to tell them not to talk about snits, so for the kids it became dad's "s" thing - and they still happened.
Bruce always enjoyed company and was willing to give a helping hand. He would be the first one to get his tools out if there was a problem on the trail. Until his first stroke in 1998, he was out in the bush all the time. After that, he still managed to ride in 'Snowarama 99' and a few trails. He became a speed demon on his bike and was forever taking off on it.
It was after his stroke that the family came to know another Bruce Holmes. He had a very gentle side, and suddenly no one was allowed to raise their voice or argue or even kill a bug; not even the dreaded spiders he was so afraid of - you had to pick bugs up and put them outside.
Bruce showed a great appreciation for everything and told his family often how much he loved them. Bruce was friendly and had a very deep sense of loyalty. A second stroke in November 1999 slowed him down and the skidoos and bikes remained in the garage.
In March of 2000, Emma could no longer care for Bruce at home and he moved into the Pouce Coupe Care home. The staff took very good care of him and he adjusted to his room. On trips home he would always check the garage thoroughly and make sure the skidoo and bikes weren't touched. Bruce passed away on Oct. 25 with his family at his side. He left them with a legacy - an appreciation for beauty, nature and life. He always admired the golden eagle and the family decided that this was his spirit animal. Well, as the eagle soars, may Bruce's spirit forever soar too. He will be greatly missed.
Bruce was predeceased by his parents, his brother Max, his sisters Gwen and Dorothy, his wife Joyce and their two sons, and his son Derrie who passed away in 1974.
He is survived by his loving wife Emma, son Jody (Carolyn) Holmes, daughters Aleene (Darryl) Goodrich, Debbie (Doug) Smith, Donna-Lynn Salter (Clint Cartier); his grandchildren Tonya (Ray), Jennifer (Jason), Rebecca, Brodie, Jordan, and Caileigh, Nona, Jennifer, Kerry, Dane, Amber and Thor; great grandchildren Emma and Colt-Lynn. He is also survived by his brothers Rex and Robin; a sister Lenore; his mother in law Minnie Bull, and many brothers and sisters in-laws; as well as many, many nieces and nephews.
Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, B.C.
Duane Cummins Hull
1932 - 2001
Duane was born on a farm near Glen Ewen Saskatchewan on November 16, 1932 as a storm raged outside to welcome him into the world. His family left the farm in 1939 to move to Smithers BC and then on to Terrace BC in 1940.
Duane was a prankster even in his younger years. One Christmas his parents scraped enough together to buy him a toboggan. He promptly went outside to play with it and got the idea to tie it to the cows tail. The cow took off and the toboggan was smashed to smithereens on the gatepost. As he grew, he continued his mischievous ways, making it a challenge for both his parents and his teachers.
Duane went to work in the logging industry around Terrace with his father and his brother Don. He later worked at Doreen Mines. He met and marriage his first wife Lola at this time. They were marriage on December 22, 1951 and had three children; Sherri, David and Diane.
During those early years Duane played the piano and later the organ. He provided entertainment first at dances and later for his friends at house parties.
Duane loved the outdoors especially hunting and fishing. His brother Don has many stories to tell of their exploits during hunting trips. Duane met his current wife Sandy on the banks of the Lakeelse River.
Duane and Sandy were marriage on December 12, 1987. They spent many good years camping and fishing.
While living on the Island, Duane would often get their boat ready to go and Sandy would come home from work and get changed on the boat as they were heading out to go fishing and enjoying the natural scenery to the fullest.
In 1997 Duane and Sandy moved to the Dawson Creek area and built a home on 5 acres within Pouce Coupe. Duane became ill in 1999 and battled with Cancer throughout his last years.
His sense of humor never left him and in fact became keener during this time. He even had the nurses laughing when he was admitted into the Pouce Coupe Care Home on May 18, 2001.
Duane passed away peacefully on May 23, 2001 with his wife Sandy by his side. His mother, father and granddaughter Leanne Damsgaard predeceased Duane.
Duane is survived by his wife Sandy and his first wife Lola, his brother Don (Elsie), his sister Dolly (Ken) Alger, his children Sherri (Bonar) Damsgaard, David (Phyllis), and Diane (Doug) Jenion and his grandchildren Brad and Kevin Damsgaard and Cory and Tony Trogi as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
Arrangements under the care of Reynars Funeral Chapel And Crematorium.
Anne Marie (Klein) Humphrey
1942 - 2000
Anne Marie Humphrey, resident of Bonanza, Alberta passed away on September 2, 2000 in Edmonton, Alberta at 57 years of age. A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on September 8, 2000 at the Bonanza Hall, with Pastor Bob Sandford officiating. Interment followed at the Hillhaven Cemetery, Bonanza, Alberta.
Anne Marie Klein was born on October 21, 1942 in Bassano, Alberta to parents Sam and Ruby Klein. She grew up in the little town of Gleichen, Alberta.
In July of 1963, she and her daughter Delores moved to the Bonanza area. Anne worked in Dawson Creek, B.C. for a short time before moving to Spirit River, Alta. she worked as a Matron's Helper for one and a half years.
On Sept. 9, 1966 she marriage the handsome red-head who made her eyes twinkle; Lawrence Humphrey. A year later, on his parents' anniversary, their son Clayton was born.
Anne taught herself to knit, crochet and sew. Many new brides in the community received a piece of Anne's beautiful handiwork. Any ladies wearing a new dress at an event, when asked where they got it, would reply, "Why Anne's dress shop, of course!"
Anne's pride and joy were her grandchildren. Anne was a great support to her daughter Delores when her children were both diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis. They were once dubbed a "team" as they each took a babe in arms and headed off to numerous doctors appointments in Edmonton. Anne and Lawrence were saddened in 1992, by the loss of their grandson, Jeffrey, at six years of age.
In the spring of 1999. Anne was diagnosed with liver disease. For the last year, she traveled to Edmonton for various tests and treatments. In June of this year, she received a liver transplant. She struggled through many complications before finally losing her battle on Sept. 2. She passed away peacefully with her family at her side.
Anne was predeceased by her father Sam Klein; her grandson Jeffrey Nimrichter, and her mother and father-in-law, Kath and Jeff Humphrey.
She will be sadly missed by her husband Lawrence; her daughter Delores Nimrichter (Jerry), and son Clayton Humphrey; her mother Ruby Morgan; sisters Wilma (John) Klebanoski and Charlotte Popof; and brothers Kenton (Sue) Klein and Darren Crum; grandchildren Matthew, Tal, Taja, and Taran; sister-in-law Doris (Larry) Duby; brother-in-law Garry Humphrey; 13 nieces and nephews; 10 great nieces and nephews; one great-great nephew, and numerous wonderful friends.
Funeral arrangements were entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, B.C.
Aloysius John Michael Hunder
1911 - 2000
Aloysius Hunder, resident of Pouce Coupe, British Columbia, passed away in Pouce Coupe on September 24, 2000 at 89 years of age.
A funeral service was held at 2 p.m. on Friday Sept. 29 at the Notre Dame Roman Catholic Church, Dawson Creek with Father Chris Lynch officiating. Interment followed at the Riverview Cemetery, Pouce Coupe.
Aloysius John Michael Hunder was better known to all of us as "Uncle Allie".
Uncle Allie drew his first breath on August 16, 1911 in the small town of Kerrobert, Sask. As a child, he grew up in a tightly knit family with six brothers and three sisters on a small farm near this community. His childhood was typical for the place and the time in which he was born.
When he was a young man, he moved with his family to a larger farm near Lloydminster, Sask.. During these years he developed an unwavering love of working the land and caring for animals and, although later in life he worked in many different fields, this love always brought him back to the farm.
In the early 1950s, Uncle Allie left Saskatchewan and moved up here to the Peace River country. With his brother Albert, he developed a farm east of Dawson Creek and for the next 30-plus years they worked this farm together.
After the move to the Peace country, Uncle Allie worked periodically in several different occupations throughout northern B.C. and the Arctic. He tried his hand at logging, working the oil patch, catering to the oil rigs and even worked at the WAC Bennett Dam, but to him it did not matter where he worked or how long he was gone, the farm was always his home.
Uncle Allie had a very easy-going personality and a dry sense of humour but true to his family name, he occasionally displayed an ornery streak. He was never mean or cruel to neither human nor animal but he always managed to make his point. He was a social person who loved to visit with lady friends but in all of his 89 years, he never marriage. Whenever he was asked why, he eagerly shared his personal theory of how women attract flies.
Typical of his farming background, Uncle Allie was a genius at inventing little "fix-its" with whatever he had at hand. He lived by the credence of "why buy it if you can make one." Although very generous with other people, this was a man of very few needs. He had a passion for reading novels, especially westerns, and liked to just sit and listen to stories recorded on cassette tapes. He was not a gambler but he thoroughly enjoyed card games. He was a very gracious winner but his acceptance of losing a game required some polish.
Uncle Allie never had a wife or children of his own, however, this did not mean that he never had family. As most of us here today can attest, he was a surrogate father and grandfather who has more family than most people are privileged to have.
Last Sunday morning, he went on ahead of us and rejoined the part of the family that pre-deceased him; his father and mother, Francis and Anna; all six of his brothers, Joseph, John, Tony, Ben, Albert and Fred; and two of his sisters, Anne and Lena.
He leaves behind to mourn his loss; his sister Francis; sisters-in-law Margaret and Lorraine; and several generations of nieces and nephews.
To you Allie John Michael Hunder, on behalf of your sister, sisters-in-law, all your nieces and nephews, family and friends; on behalf of all who knew you, we say good-bye - and we thank you for having been part of our lives.'
Funeral Arrangements entrusted to Bergeron Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Dawson Creek, B.C.
Frances Hunder
1907 - 1999
Frances Amelia and her twin Henry Elmer, were born in Lancaster, P.A. on July 26, 1907 to August and Anna Gegg. She resided there along with her nine siblings. Her life includes many memories of a kind, caring, generous, hard working, feisty, and fun loving woman, all guided by her strong faith in God.
Grandma had many friends in her youth. One friend, Marie Bermel, would play a pivotal role in her life. Marie had come from Canada to visit her uncle in Lancaster. They became close friends and Grandma was invited back to visit the Bermel farm in Kerrobert, Saskatchewan.
While there, Marie introduced her by chance to a young man named John, who very quickly became "her man" in Canada.
Grandma returned to Lancaster and they continued their courtship through letters. A short time later, a very special match box arrived in the mail, addressed grandma. It contained and engagement ring from "her man" in Canada.
John moved to Lancaster and they were secretly marriage on June 5, 1931. Their marriage was kept a secret for a while, so grandma could continue working in the factory, as marriage women were being forced out of their jobs after the war.
Soon after their marriage, they moved to Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, where the city girl was transformed into a country girl. They lived in a granary until they were able to sell their old car for $250 to buy the logs they needed to build their home.
In 1935, they began their family. They had four children: Mary, Frank, Josie, and Jim.
They lived on a small farm which grandma often had to maintain while grandpa worked away from home. While in Lloydminster, the eldest daughter started the next generation of the family
In 1953 with three children remaining, grandma followed her man to realize his dream of owning a farm in the Peace River country. The dream continued until 1955, when grandpa was summoned by God to his place in heaven.
1965 brought about the marriage of her eldest son, Frank, who with his new bride continued to operate the farm while grandma left to begin working as a homemaker. She was excited about her independence and ability to make her own money. She always remembered everyone at birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, Easter and many other times throughout the year.
She never forgot anyone of her four children, 17 grandchildren, and 30 great grandchildren and their spouses.
We remember grandmas dedication to God, and the church, and her endless hours of prayer. She believed in the power of prayer and prayed for all of us all the time, sometimes staying in her room so long doing her rosary that we wondered if she was all right.
Grandma will always be remembered for her smiles, hugs ,wet kisses and especially her laughter. Grandma enjoyed a good practical joke whether it be sewing clothes together and putting toothpaste in the luggage of honeymooners or cornflakes in their bed.
It was her nature to be humorous, like the time she prepared herself for a wedding. She came out of the bathroom looking beautiful, except for some brilliant red marking all over her neck and ear lobes. In her excitement she had mistakenly grabbed her lipstick instead of her roll on perfume.
Grandma was an excellent card player and was always up for a game, however, she often felt her opponents were cheating and once or twice she was even caught cheating herself.
Grandma was famous for her excellent cooking and baking. To many of us, she became known as the "doughnut grandma". After satisfying our appetites, she would then send us on our way with a package of goodies.
In 1976, grandma moved to Rotary Harbour where she would live for the next twenty years. She was kept busy going to church, baking for neighbors, volunteering for the C.W.L., shopping and visiting friends and family
Grandma was always there to help others. One time grandmas neighbor locked her keys in her apartment A kind hearted grandma, in her haste to help a friend, latched onto a ladder and maneuvered her 78 year old body up the steps and climbed through the window only to discover herself perched on a stand in the wrong apartment of a very surprised bachelor.
One of the things she valued the most while living at the Harbour was being able to attend mass daily. She was a dedicated volunteer at the Notre Dame parish. She organized the hymn books in the church pews after the masses. As quoted in the Parish News, "she could be counted on , rain, snow, or ice." She also shared her delicious baking with shut-ins, the elderly, parish priests, and sisters. Over the years, her strong dedication to God and the church was an inspiration to all.
In 1996, after a fall and major hip surgery, she moved to the Pouce Coupe Care Home, where she remained until summoned home by God to join "her man" and her twin in heaven on November 2,1999.
We will always treasure the gift of Grandma.
A funeral service for Frances was held on Sat Nov. 6 1999 at 10 a.m. from the Notre Dame Catholic Church with Father Chris Lynch officiating. Interment was at the Dawson Creek City Cemetery. Funeral Services were under the care of Reynar's Funeral Home and Crematorium.
William Donald (Bill) Hutchings
After a short battle with cancer, and with his mother and sister holding his hands, Bill passed away peacefully at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops on Oct. 25, 1999.
Bill had fallen in love with the west, with mountains and wildlife and cowboy hats. He just spent three beautiful weeks with his mom and dad in Parksville, loving the peace and the fresh air and mom's great cooking. He planned to return there for his "angel" to take care of him, but sadly, ran out of time.
Born and educated in Halifax, Bill was one of the original Elvis fans and a "cool" older brother. He spent most of his career as a member of ACTRA in broadcasting-radio, television and promotional work. Highlights included modelling for "The Bay" in Vancouver; a walk-on with Lindsay Wagner in the "Bionic Woman"; early years of radio in several cities and towns including Kamloops, Lethbridge and Calgary; radio in London where his soft, low voice invited romantics to listen to his "London by Night" show and, in the daytime, he loved doing impersonations, especially Rawhide and Ronald Regan; his time as a TV weather man in London where he is remembered as much for his crazy plaid jackets as for his classic and always impeccable good looks; radio in Calgary where he interviewed several well-known celebrities and movie stars; his years as general manager of television for CJDC in Dawson Creek, B.C. where he loved making the station more successful by involving the whole community in TV, from corporate sponsors to school kids.
Bill worked for several years in furniture sales in London and Calgary and, most recently at "The Brick" in Kamloops. He counted both staff and customers as his friends, and they tell us he brought something very special to his work and that he'll be missed.
He leaves behind his mother, Margaret and father Robert S. in Parksville, B.C., sister Marilyn in Halifax, N.S. and brother R. Byron (Bob) in Montreal, Que., very special friend Fay, cousin Karen Smith in London, Ont., and other relatives and friends.
So many people in Bill's life loved and respected him and invited him into their homes as if he were family. We'll miss him so much, but we know that he's gone fishing with Nanny and Craig.
His family offer their love and thank the doctors and nurses in Kamloops and Kelowna for their gentle care. Cremation has taken place and a private service will be held in Parksville. His friends and fans may make donations to their local cancer society or the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation (Cancer Services Fund) 311 Columbia St., Kamloops, B.C. V2C 2T1 in Bill's name.
Edna Viola Hutchison
1912-2001
A Funeral service for the late Edna Viola Hutchison of Dawson Creek, B.C. was held on Tuesday
September 25, 2001 at 1 p.m. from Reynars Funeral Chapel Reverend, Lexis Saunders officiated, Interment followed in the Brookside Cemetery.
Edna Viola Hutchison, a longtime resident of Dawson Creek, B.C. passed away at the Pouce Coupe Care Home on September 20, 2001 at the age of 89 years.
Edna was born in Grande Prairie, Alberta on June 15, 1912 to Charles and Florence Kitchen.
It has been recorded that she was the second white child to be born in the Grande Prairie area.
Edna took her education at Montrose School until the family moved to Steveston, B.C. in 1927.
In 1929 the family returned to Grande Prairie. In May of 1930 Edna's father, Charles Kitchen Sr., established the Peace River Block News at Rolla, B.C. and in July of 1930 the family moved from Grande Prairie to Rolla. At that time Edna joined the staff as stenographer and also held such positions as secretary and bookkeeper. In 1932, the newspaper plant was moved, along with the family, to Dawson Creek. On September 5, 1942 Edna marriage Charles Hutchison in St. Mark's Anglican Church in Dawson Creek. Into Edna and Charlie's marriage came one daughter, Norma Jean, born in the former St. Joseph's Hospital in Dawson Creek.
Following the death of Charles Kitchen Sr. Edna, along with her two brothers and one sister, operated the family business until the newspaper was sold in 1972.
Edna was a member of St. Mark's Anglican Church and served as envelope secretary for a number of years. She was also a member of the Anglican Young Peoples Association, and Anglican Church Women. She taught Sunday school and was a member of the Rebekah Lodge.
Edna will be remembered as a kind-hearted and loving person. At home, she was a much-loved wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Edna enjoyed gardening, crocheting, baking and camping at Moberly Lake and the cabin at Camp 4 on the Heart Highway. Edna and Charlie enjoyed square dancing and were members of the Dawson Creek Square Dancing Club.
They also enjoyed traveling. Some of their trips include Expo 67 in Montreal, Hawaii, Mexico and for several years spent six weeks in Arizona.
Edna so loved to have her two granddaughters spend part of their summer vacation with her. She was able to attend both of her granddaughters' graduations and weddings. She was blessed with three great-granddaughters and one great-grandson.
Edna and Charlie were marriage for 57 years until Charlie's passing in September of 1999. When Edna's health began to fail she moved to Peace River Haven in August of 1998. For the past nine months she was a resident of the Pouce Coupe Care Home until her passing.
Edna was predeceased by her husband Charles in 1999; father Charles Sr. in 1959; mother Florence in 1961; brothers Charles Jr. in 1990, Norman in 1994 and sister Beatrice in 1995.
Left to mourn Edna's passing are daughter Norma Bangen and husband Arden of LaGlace, Alberta; granddaughter Tanya Kluyt and husband John and their two daughters Tayllor and Ashley of Grande Prairie; Alberta granddaughter Raquel Driedger and her husband Bernie and their son Joshua and daughter Breanna of Grande Prairie, Alberta; sister-in-law Edith Kitchen of Dawson Creek; B.C. brother-in-law Alec Robertson of Bessborough; numerous nieces, nephews and friends. God bless her memory.
Arrangements were under the care of Reynars Funeral Chapel and Crematorium Dawson Creek.
Florence Mae Ikert (nee McCuaig)
1921-2001
A Funeral service for the late Mae Ikert long time resident of Pouce Coupe, B.C. was held on Thursday, October 4, 2001 at 2 p.m. from St Paul's Lutheran Church, Rev. C. Denninger officiated. Interment followed in the Brookside Cemetery.
Florence Mae McCuaig was born May 27, 1921 in Rouleau, Saskatchewan. She was the second daughter of Abigail and Daniel McCuaig. In 1929 she moved to Fort St. John with her mother and stepfather Roy Taylor, and sister Lillian. It was here that she attended school, walking three miles, and later, when they moved to the farm at Fish Creek, riding fivee miles on horseback.
After she had finished school, Mae worked in Fort St. John at various stores. In 1949 she moved to Dawson Creek where Mae opened her own business: Dreamland Style Shop. She met Adolf Ikert that same year. In 1950 she opened a second Dreamland Style Shop in Fort St. John.
Adolf and Mae were marriage in 1956. In 1959 they opened yet another Style Shop by the same name in Surrey, B.C. The call of the Peace was strong. They returned and bought Pouce Variety Store and made their home in Pouce Coupe. They operated this store until their retirement in 1992. Mae resided in Pouce Coupe with Adolf until her death, September 30, 2001. During her 46 years of marriage to Adolf, she was an active partner in all their business ventures.
What did Mae enjoy most? Christmas, birthdays, barbecues and picnics with her family and her extended family were always happy times for Mae. She hosted many get-together's for family and friends over the years. These events were enjoyed by all who attended. Mae was always happy to have company and had a special way of making you feel welcome. We will miss her smile and her sense of humour.
Mae loved and enjoyed her pets. Over the years there were many dogs and cats. In her later years, Mae had three cats, one very special one. In the evenings it could be found snuggling on her lap enjoying her company as the two of them napped in front of the T.V.
Mae is survived by her sister Lillian Weber, brother Gordon(Lorena) Taylor, her mother-in-law, Amanda Ikert, sister-in-law, Ottilie (Edmund) Steinke, nephews, Ken (Gail) Weber, Guy Taylor, Kurt (Phyllis) Steinke, and nieces Colleen Taylor, Erika Popyk, Gertrude (Bernem) Grant, and Irene (Barry) Pearce. Mae is also survived by great & great-great nieces and nephews. Mae will be remembered with much love and admiration by those whose lives came in contact with her.
Mae now rejoices in the eternal life that has been given to her by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She is finally at peace and is forever with the Lord.
Funeral arrangements were under the care of Reynars Funeral Chapel and Crematorium Dawson Creek, B.C.
Adolf Ikert
1926-2001
A funeral service for the late Adolf Ikert, a long time resident of Pouce Coupe, was held on Wednesday October 17, 2001 at 2 p.m. from St. Paul's Lutheran Church, Rev. C. Denninger officiated. Interment followed in the Brookside Cemetery.
Adolf was the eldest child of Reinhold and Amanda Ikert, born May 14, 1926 in Syki, Poland.
It is there that he spent his early childhood growing up on the family farm. He attended the local country school. These were difficult times.
In 1944 at the age of 18 Adolf moved to Krakau, Poland to work with the railroad.
In the following months as the second world war continued he was transferred to Germany, where he remained until 1949.
In the bitter cold of January he and his parents boarded the "Gripsholm" in Stockholm, Sweden and sailed for Canada, together making their dream come true. Their destination was Wapella, Saskatchewan, to live and work with their sponsoring family. Work was scarce and within the year they moved on to Bashaw, Alberta where Adolf secured work with the Northern Alberta Railway. Adolf worked on the maintenance crew that serviced the line between Edmonton and Dawson Creek.
During this time he came to love the Peace River country and made Dawson Creek his home.
Over the years Adolf was employed by the Co-op, MacDonolds Wholesale and Monarch Life Insurance Co., but all the while he longed for his independence.
In early 1950 Adolf met Florence Mae McCuaig and together they ventured into business for the first time establishing the Dreamland Style Shops in Dawson Creek, Fort St John and Surrey, B.C. These were followed by Pouce Variety and later Economy Lumber.
In June 1956 Mae & Adolf were marriage and settled in Pouce Coupe where they made their home.
For Adolf it was a joyous time cast with a shadow of sadness as his father died only a short time before. As family members we spent hours with Adolf and Mae working and socializing together. Adolf was a man with strong conviction ever ready to defend his position. For many of us have memories of the great debate that took place in the back room of Pouce Variety.
Adolf was active in the community as a member of the Chamber of Commerce and served as Mayor on the Pouce Coupe village council. He also volunteered his time in the planning of the construction of St. Paul's Lutheran Church.
Adolf's interests included photography, collecting and compiling historical information along with many outdoor activities. His appreciation for the outdoors and his interest in history came together in 1967 Canada's Centennial year. He and a crew of ten men traveled from the Peace River to Montreal by canoe retracing the route of the explorer Alexander MacKenzie. The trip was 5,400 miles and took 110 days to complete to him this was his legacy.
Mae and Adolf continued to operate the store & lumberyard until retirement in 1992.
Their last years were spent enjoying their freedom, socializing, taking country drives, dining out and attending community events.
Adolf was predeceased by his father Reinhold Ikert and his wife Mae Ikert.
He is survived by his mother Amanda Ikert, sister Ottilie (Edmund) Steinke, sister-in-law Lillian Weber, brother-in-law Gordon Taylor and his wife Lorena, nephews Kurt (Phyllis) Steinke, Ken Weber and Guy Taylor, nieces Erica Popyk, Gertrude (Burnem) Grant, Irene (Barry) Pearce, great & great-great nieces and nephews.
Adolf will be remembered by each of us in our own way. He is at peace and is forever in the hands of the Lord.
Funeral Arrangements were under the care of Reynars Funeral Chapel and Crematorium Dawson Creek.
John Warren Irvine
1922-2001
John Warren Irvine was born on April 19th, 1922. He spent the first five years of his life near Wellwood, Manitoba.
In 1928 his parents and their three children (Warren, the eldest, Duncan and Barbara) travelled by rail to the Peace River and settled on a farm north of the community of Hythe.
Warren was educated at Beaverlodge, Alberta. He joined the Air Force in 1941 as a pilot and was posted overseas in January of 1942.
He was assigned to Coastal Command with the RAF and flew a variety of aircraft, mainly Wellingtons. He had various postings during his four years overseas including North Africa and Italy.
After his discharge from the Air Force, Warren enrolled in Medicine at the University of Alberta. While attending university he met and marriage Thelma MacKenzie, always referring to her by her nickname Tim.
Following graduation and residency he moved to Dawson Creek in the Peace River country for six years of general practice. He returned to Edmonton for four years of training in surgery and then went back to Dawson Creek to practice his speciality for 25 years.
Warren remains well-respected in the Peace River District.
Warren retired in 1988 and moved to the Beachcomber area of Nanoose. He is survived by his wife Thelma, his five children Sandra (Leo), Leslie (Rob), Brian (Shelley), John (Lynn) and Jim (Linda), thirteen grandchildren, his brother Duncan and sister Barbara.
A memorial service was held Tuesday, July 10th at the Knox United Church in Parksville, B.C. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the B.C. Cancer Foundation, 600 W 10th Ave. Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4E6 or a charity of choice.
Parksville Funeral Chapel entrusted with arrangements. 248-4644.
