Ronald Joseph Marry passed away on February 11, 2024 at Vancouver, BC. A private burial will be held.
He will be missed by all who knew him.
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Lois Elizabeth Alma McElrea (née Osborne) passed into the arms of Jesus on Easter Monday, April 1, 2024.
Lois was born in North Vancouver, BC on August 26, 1939, to John and Esther Osborne. Her life was marked by a deep love for the Lord, her family, and for all she encountered. She served faithfully alongside Maurice, her husband of 56 years, at Union Gospel Mission in Vancouver, and in many other arenas. She finished the race well. She was predeceased by her sister Ruth and her brother Neale and is survived by her husband Maurice, her son David (Kjersti), her grandchildren, Aidan (Elysha), and Emma, and her sisters, Charis (John) Rae and Margaret (Cliff) Brassington. A memorial service will be held at 1pm on Saturday April 13th at Saint Matthew’s Anglican Church, (meeting at Grace Evangelical Bible Church), 2087 McMillan Road, Abbotsford BC. A private interment service will be held separately. Lois loved greatly and was greatly loved. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Union Gospel Mission. Special thanks to all those who cared for Lois so wonderfully during her last weeks at Abbotsford Regional Hospital. Bryan Douglas Frazer was born on February 17, 1942 in Penticton, BC. He passed away from kidney failure at home in Langley on March 15, 2024 at the age of 82 years.
He is survived by his wife Shelagh Brennan, son Aaron (Karen), daughter Megan (Zach), granddaughters Bree, Devyn, Josephine and Eleanor, and his first wife Heather Grant. Also survived by his canine sidekick Perla Mae, and his two best buddies Steve and Jim. Bryan was a Research Entomologist studying aphids and many other insects throughout his career. Bryan loved cooking, gardening and travelling. His life was marked by his curiosity and living in Qualicum Beach and Mexico. Please join the family to share memories and stories of Bryan at his Celebration of Life, Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 1:00 pm at Heritage Townhomes Clubhouse, 22057 49 Avenue, Langley, BC. His ashes will be buried at a later date in Penticton, BC. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory to the Tiny Tales Pony Rescue Society in Ladner would be appreciated. https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/tiny-tales-pony-rescue-society In Loving Memory:
Toussaint Joseph LeBreton, of Aldergrove BC, passed away suddenly but peacefully at home on February 29, 2024. He was 74 years old. Lovingly nicknamed “Wes”, he was born to Marcel and Malvina LeBreton on November 1, 1949 in Saint Sauveur, N.B., and ambitiously headed west at a young age via freight train. In B.C. he met his wife Debbie and together they built a successful greenhouse construction and manufacturing business. An avid outdoorsman, Wes never lost touch with his Miq’maw and Acadian heritage as his love for and appreciation of nature and its bounty ran through his veins. Ice fishing with a dear friend just the week before his passing, Wes also enjoyed hunting, trapping, carving, and generally working with his hands. He absolutely treasured time spent with Debbie at their Hatheume Lake cabin where they would take the ATV up to view points to build camp fires and have picnics. They canoed together and competed with the local loons for lake trout. He loved befriending and feeding chipmunks, squirrels and hummingbirds. And he loved and cherished his children and grandchildren above all else, dedicating his life to ensuring they were cared for and happy. Wes is predeceased by his parents and his sisters Ginette and Linova. He is survived by his devoted wife, Debbie, and their three children, Wendy (Derek), Krystal (Darl) and Raymond (Amy), and two grandchildren, Justine and Felix whom he treasured deeply. He is also survived by his wonderful siblings Ernest, Raymonde, Yvon, Alice, Georgette, and Lisa as well as many nieces and nephews. His sudden departure has left a void in many hearts as he touched so many lives with his kindness, charm and warmth. We all truly believed there was nothing he could not do or fix! The memories created with Wes will be treasured by all those who knew him. A memorial service will be held in late July 2024 where family members and friends are all welcome to join as we celebrate Wes's life. Please reach out for further details regarding the service. If you have photos you would like included in the slideshow, please email them to wendy.lebreton@gmail.com. To honor Wes’s memory, in lieu of flowers or gifts, please consider donating to a charity that helps wildlife and rescued animals. BROWNE, Cleone M. - Passed away on February 22, 2024 in Richmond, B.C., aged 90 years. Predeceased by her parents, Colin and Beryl Browne, sister Elizabeth Terry, and brother Peter Browne.
Lovingly remembered by her niece, Cleone Parsons (Robert Moore), and many dear friends gathered over her lifetime from around the globe. Cleone was born in Calcutta, India, and immigrated to Canada with her parents and brother in 1948. A long-time resident of Richmond, she spent the majority of her career employed at WorkSafeBC until her retirement in 1991. Cleone was very active for many years with St. Joseph the Worker Parish and the Richmond Garden Club. She loved gardening, photography, travel, winemaking, and animals of all kinds (especially dogs!). A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Thursday, March 7, 2024 at 12 noon in St. Joseph the Worker Parish, 4451 Williams Road, Richmond. Interment to follow at Robinson Memorial Park Cemetery, 621 Robinson Street, Coquitlam. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name to the Senior Animals In Need Today Society (www.saintsrescue.ca) would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks to the nursing staff at Courtyard Gardens (Gardenside), Dr. Sarah Monahan, and Dr. Sarah Hamilton for the wonderful care they gave Cleone during her final years. Emmanuel Rethimiotakis, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, departed from this world on February 21, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on November 14, 1933, Emmanuel lived a life defined by love, dedication, and adventure.
Emmanuel cherished his family above all else, finding joy in every moment spent with them. As a devoted husband to Garyfalia Rethimiotakis, he exemplified unwavering love and support. He was a pillar of strength and guidance to his children, George Rethimiotakis and Dr. Eleni Rethimiotakis, MD, instilling in them values of kindness, perseverance, and compassion. His legacy further flourished through his grandchildren, Alexandros Efthimiades and Garifalia Rethimiotakis, whom he adored deeply and who will carry his memory forward. Throughout his life, Emmanuel found solace in nature's embrace, often indulging in his passions for fishing, leisurely walks along the beach, and exploring new horizons through travel. His adventures took him to enchanting destinations, including Mexico, Greece, and beyond, where he embraced diverse cultures and created lasting memories. Emmanuel's professional journey was as vibrant as his personal pursuits. Having served as a second assistant engineer in the merchant marines for eight years, he ventured to Halifax, where fate led him to encounter his beloved wife. Over the years, he established himself as a successful entrepreneur, owning multiple restaurants, notably Estia Restaurant, and contributing to his community through selling life insurance at Excelsior. Despite battling dementia over the past few years, Emmanuel remained resilient, facing each day with courage and grace. In the twilight of his life, he found solace and comfort in the compassionate care provided by Peace Arch Hospital, where he spent his final months. In lieu of flowers, donations to the hospital would be greatly appreciated, symbolizing Emmanuel's enduring spirit of generosity and kindness. Contributions can be made to the Peace Arch Hospital Foundation at https://www.pahfoundation.ca/donate-now/. A Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 29, 2024 at 11:00 am at St. Andrew's Chapel United Church of Langley - Fort Langley, 9025 Glover Road, Ft. Langley, BC. The service will serve as a tribute to his legacy of love, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Though Emmanuel may have departed from this world, his memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him. In Loving memory of Gilles Robert Joseph Parent, a devoted husband, and accomplished builder/manager, peacefully passed away on December 16, 2023, at Surrey Memorial Hospital. He was born in Altona, Manitoba, to Michel and Dorothee Parent.
Gilles was the beloved husband of Sharon Mary Parent (nee Holovaci), and together they shared a life filled with love and companionship. He is survived by his wife and Daniel and leaves a legacy of love and dedication to his family. Gilles dedicated 45 years to the field of construction and restoration, leaving an indelible mark through his skills as a builder and manager. His commitment to his work enriched the communities he served. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects during an evening prayer service held on Friday December 22 at 7:00pm. The following morning the Funeral Service will be held at 10:00am. Both will take place at Holy Nativity Orthodox Church, 4828 216a Street, Langley. Gilles will then be laid to rest at Heritage Gardens Cemetery, 19082 16 Avenue, Surrey. Father Michael Gillis will officiate the services. *** Please note, following the funeral the family will proceed directly to the cemetery for the burial, but they specifically request that all guests partake in the reception immediately following the funeral in the adjacent Murrayville Hall. You are requested to stay as long as you are able to enjoy each others company and share in the memory of Gilles upon their return from the cemetery. Gilles will be remembered for his dedication to family, his craftsmanship, and the positive impact he made on the lives of those around him. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May he rest in peace. In Loving Memory of Mile Kljajic
Mile Kljajic, born on May 22, 1946, peacefully passed away on December 13, 2023, in Vancouver, BC. He was 77 years old. A Funeral Service to pray for Mile will be held on Monday, December 18, 2023, at 10:00 am at St. Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, located at 505 E 63rd Avenue, Vancouver, BC. Father Marko Radmanovic will officiate the service. Following the service, Mile will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery, 5455 Fraser Street, Vancouver, BC. Mile is survived by his loving wife, Zivka, and their sons Miodrag and Milan. He is also remembered fondly by his daughter-in-law, Rina, and his cherished grandchildren, Sara and Hugo. Mile will be remembered for his warmth, generosity, and the love he shared with his family and friends. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. May His Memory Be Eternal ! October 17 1935 - November 27 2023
Michael (Mike) Kollias of Vancouver, BC passed away peacefully on November 27, 2023 at Langley Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Kato Petralona, on Philopappos Hill in Athens, Greece. Mike was predeceased by his father Ioannis Kollias (at the young age of 9), mother Athena Nicolaou, sister Angeliki Nicolaou-Makris, brother Christos (Chris) Kollias and cousin Panteleimon (Peter) Pantelidis. Mike came to Canada at the age of 20, in 1956, with his older brother Chris, younger brother Nikolaos (Niko) and their cousin Peter. They started their Canadian journey in Winnipeg which was short lived and settled in Vancouver shortly thereafter. Mike worked in the hospitality industry until he retired in 1999. To many he was “Chico”, everyone’s favourite server/bartender, but to us he was dad who always made sure the women in the house were “panta kala”. After retirement, Mike spent most of his time playing with his grandchildren, poker with his kids and enjoying great conversation with his friends at the church kafenio and at the mall. He was a well known and loved member of the Greek Orthodox community and will be missed by many. Mike is survived by his brother Niko, wife Anna, daughters Kimberlee, Athena (Chris), Maria (Raff), grandchildren Michael (Dalas), Kayleen (Jamie), Dean, Isabella, Luca, Enzo, Ayva, great-grandchildren Sophia and Dominic and many beloved nieces and nephews in Canada and Greece that he adored with all his heart. The Trisagion Service will be held on December 7th, 2023 at 7:00pm at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church located at 13181 96th Avenue, Surrey. The Funeral Service will be held on December 8th, 2023 at 10:00am at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church. The interment to follow at Heritage Garden Cemetery 19082 16th Avenue, Surrey In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Greek Orthodox Community of Surrey and Fraser Valley. May His Memory Be Eternal Diane Irene Glebe (Dirks/Dunn)
Born on December 18, 1944 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. On November 2, 2023 she passed peacefully in Mission, B.C. surrounded by so much love. She fought a hard fight and smiled until the very end. She leaves behind her husband Tom Glebe, Daughters Brenda Dunn and Christine (Martin) Alaric Grandchildren Kori-Lea (Michael) Battaglia, Kara-Lyn (Michael) Blair Kyla-Mae (Don) Keserich, Shawna-Rae (Pierre) Menard, James Dunn, Kimberly Alaric, Joshua Alaric, Hayden Alaric and Brendan Dunn. Also 11 Great Grandchildren . Brother Daniel (Patricia) Dirks and many nieces and nephews. Not to forget all her extended family and friends. She was pre-deceased by her father, grandparents, mother, daughter Debra, brother, nephew, niece and great great granddaughter. Celebration of Life December 18, 2023 at 4:00pm Hatzic Prairie Hall 10845 Farms Road Hatzic, BC (Pot luck - please bring a dish) With broken hearts, the Styre family shares the sudden and unexpected passing of Timothy Lawrence Styre on September 23rd, after a very brief hospitalization. Born in Torquay Saskatchewan on March 5, 1949, Tim was raised in a musical family, where much time was spent gathered playing guitar and singing together. Tim himself was a natural and gifted musician, easily taking up the guitar. Inspired by the music of Dick Dale, The Beatles and Elvis, he joined the first of many bands as a teen, going on to win the Radville Regional High School Band Battle in 1967.
In 1968, Tim celebrated the birth of his daughter, Sheila, who would also share his love and talent for music - this would form a special, life long connection between the two of them. Tim headed West for warmer winters, settling in Vancouver in 1970 and in 1974, Tim met Bev and the two started dating shortly after, eventually marrying in 1983. They welcomed their daughter Jacquelyn later that year, followed by their son Donovan in 1988. Together, Tim and Bev shared many, adventures together until his passing. Tim worked for many years with Western Canada Steel, and then on to A&M Non-Ferrous Metals, later becoming Ryerson, where he retired in 2014. While at A&M/Ryerson, Tim took his role as Industrial First Aid attendant very seriously, tending to many injuries over the years, from minor, major (including his own) and once even saving a life. In addition to always being a member of at least one band through the years, Tim was heavily involved in Tai Kwan Do, earning a 3rd Degree black belt, competing competitively in kick-boxing, and loved all things fitness, especially enjoying regular bike rides and going to the gym daily, even on the day he was hospitalized. While Tim may have worked full time in the Metals Industry, his true profession was music. A master of guitar, bass, keyboard, blues harp, and, of course, the cowbell - he believed there was always a need for more cowbell. He loved to share music with those he loved, teaching his kids and grandkids songs on the guitar and keys, and even writing a song dedicated to Bev. While Tim was somewhat a quiet fellow, he loved to stand on stage and entertain a crowd with his music. After retirement, Tim took his full time Grandpa duties quite seriously, and was a very proud Papa - taking care of Benjamin and Monika on a regular basis and was overjoyed to have spent quality time this past summer with Sheila and his grandkids and great grandkids. We are grateful for him carrying on his Grandma Carlson's tradition of making Swedish Pancakes every Sunday morning, and passing the recipe down to all of the kids, so we can carry on with it for him. Tim was predeceased but his Mother, Viola Trugeon (nee Carlson), father Barney Styre, sister Judy, and his beloved dog and sidekick, Pepper. Tim will be forever loved and forever missed by his loving wife Bev, daughters Sheila (Neil), Jacquelyn (Chris) and son, Donovan; his 7 beloved grandchildren, Kayla, Micheal, Jacey, Miranda, Riley, Benjamin, and Monika, and his 5 sweet, great grandchildren, Avery, Marley, Nora, Blake and Annie; his brothers Barry and Terry; and many, nieces, nephews and cousins. We invite those who loved Tim, to join us for a Celebration of Life on Saturday, November 4th from 1pm - 4pm at his band, Kronik's, rehearsal space at the Barn at 14128 Colebrook Road in Surrey, to remember Tim with the music and people he loved. In honour of him, this will be a very casual event, so please be sure to wear your best tie dyed or flannel shirts and blue jeans. Forever loved, and never forgotten. "Where words fail, music speaks." Dale Eldon MacAulay, 67, passed peacefully in his home in Abbotsford. Predeceased by his mother, Jacqueline (2005), father, Jack (2006) and sister, Shelley (2014). Survived by his brother, Leslie, daughter, Nicole, grandsons Maverick & Bentley, his nephew Steven and nieces Shauna, Chelene, Shayla, Ally and Quinn. Dale loved his family dearly and will be deeply missed by all.
Sunrise April 10, 1957 ~ Sunset September 17, 2023 With deep despair and anguished hearts, we announce the passing of Carolyn "Vail" Thomas. Vail left us much too soon, at the age of 66 in White Rock, after a brief but fierce battle with cancer. Her strong tenacious spirit and giving heart prevailed through her cancer journey touching the lives of so many right until her final goodbye. Left to miss Vail is her mother Barbara, daughter Alaina, son Marek, brother Roy (MaryLyn), sister Lori (Tony), grandchildren Ava, Thayne, Tayla, as well as her friend and ex-partner Ken, her large extended family, many dear friends and colleagues. Predeceased by brother Mike, father Jack and step-dad Al, as well as ancestors from the Tzeachten First Nations. Vail lived her life always thinking of others giving her empathy, time and dedication. Her selfless huge heart was at it fullest when she could positively lift others around her up. She was stubborn and opinionated towards what she believed in and protected the ones she loved with virtue. From her time as a ballroom dancing teacher into her extended years with the White Rock Players Club, her love for the arts was a passion she always kept with her. She advocated for the hearing impaired and vulnerable groups, volunteered with the Tour De White Rock and Delta and spent the last 20 years with the Vancouver School Board shaping so many lives. To commemorate her life and enthusiastic adventuring nature, we will be celebrating Vail's life on October 21, 2023 at Sea Ridge Bays Clubhouse, 15875 20th Ave, South Surrey, from 2-8pm with "memory moments" beginning at 3Pm, where people can share their thoughts and stories with others. As per Vail's wishes, please dress with bright colours for a party! Bring a favourite appetizer and your own refreshments. Coffee and tea will be provided. Please bring photos and your memories to Star. Also feel welcome to add your thoughts, stories, pictures, well wishes and memories here online. This will be a going away to remember and celebrate the remarkable woman that Vail was to so many. Photos submitted to service@ancientburials.com will then be added to an online slideshow. Please direct any questions to her sister Lori at 604-839-7116 or her daughter Alaina at 604-441-1904. To quote Vail, "the show with must go on" so please have her in your daily thoughts, with strength and a smile. Adam Scriver, 41, of Aldergrove, passed away on September 14, 2023 after a short battle with lung cancer.
Adam was born on September 16, 1981 to Katherine and David Scriver (both predeceased) in Calgary, Alberta. The family including his brother Shawn moved to BC in 1996 where Adam became a proud professional in his trade for over twenty years. Adam became the proud father of Sarah and Jacob while living in New Westminster before meeting Heather in 2008. They wed in 2012, going on to have two children, Isabella and Emily. Family has always been an important part of Adams life that led to special bonds like the ones he had with his Aunty Shelly and his nephew Wyatt who he saw as a son. Adam lived a full life of fun extreme activities like skydiving, skiing, dirt biking, camping, boating and spending time with his loving family. His love of the finer things made him a regular at Cardero’s and Fifth Ave in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. Rex Pay passed away at the age of 68 on July 27, 2023 at his home in Ladner. He was born August 29, 1954 at Royal Columbian Hospital. Predeceased by his mother Bernice, father Ralph and sister Lonnie. Survived by his wife Marilyn, daughter Tara, son in law Greg Wilkins and grandchildren Nolan and Blake.
Rex attended school at Sunshine Hills Elementary School and eventually bused to Delta Secondary School where he met and then married his high school sweetheart. He enjoyed water and snow skiing, playing football, sitting on a sandy beach and always excelled at anything he put his mind to. He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle any chance he could but his grandkids gave him the most joy. He will be remembered best for his sense of humor and quick wit. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 30, 2023 from 2:00pm-4:00pm at The Rose and Crown Pub, 1203 56th Street, Tsawwassen, BC. In lieu of flowers, donation to the Concussion Legacy Foundation Canada https://www.classy.org/give/469440/#!/donation/checkout would be greatly appreciated. It is with heavy hearts that we are announcing the untimely death of Aaron Ramlakhan, on August 23, 2023. Aaron’s legacy is carried on by his wife, Tanya, and three children. Aaron will also be missed by; his parents Steve and Roberta; and sister Shannon (Daniel); parent in-laws Chantha and Thorn, and sisters Sarina and Christina (Paul) and their daughter. An evening panikhida prayer service will be held on Monday September 4, 2023 at 6:30pm at St. Herman of Alaska Orthodox Church, 7221 198b Street, Langley, BC with a funeral the following day on Tuesday September 5 at 10:30am. He will be laid to rest at Fort Langley Cemetery, 23105 St Andrews Ave, Fort Langley. Potluck reception will be held following the burial across the street at the St. Andrew United Church hall. Those who knew Aaron would remember how he told stories so animatedly, ending it with an infectious laughter. He was a hard working and devoted husband and father and a dear friend to so many. Donations to assist the family can be contributed via https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-aaron-ramlakhan May His Memory Be Eternal ...
Lyle Terrance Watson passed away on July 18, 2023 at Vancouver, BC. A private burial will be held. He will be missed by all who knew him.
My dear son Blaise died suddenly following a fatal brain bleed on June 19, 2023. His unexpected death happened one week after his 22nd birthday, Father's day weekend, and while fishing with his friends on the bank of the Fraser River.
He is survived by his parents Tracy and Brian, grandparents, his son Xavier, brother Bryce, and sister Tia. His cat, Fluffy, will also miss him and his hugs dearly. Blaise will be forever missed by many family and friends. Blaise was a very curious, loving, kind, but bold and strong young man. He loved fishing, working out at the gym, and getting into mischief. He made us all laugh out loud with his unforgettable sense of humour. We are thankful Blaise was able to be an organ donor and give the gift of life to 4 others. Flowers respectfully declined, please consider donating to an organization Blaise felt passionate about www.canadahelps.org, an organization that supports women and children who have experienced violence. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 4:00pm - 7:00 pm at the Heritage Hall, 3015 273 Street, Aldergrove, BC. May 29, 2000 - July 3, 2023, It is with saddened hearts that we are sharing this, our son Liam Douglas Girard passed away on July 3rd, 2023. Liam was funny and had a very loving heart and was kind to anyone he encountered. Liam loved Anime, video games and movies, and most of all he loved his little brother Mike.
Liam is survived by his parents Grace O’Reilly and Steve Girard, his stepmother Maddy Ghoneim, brother Mike and stepbrothers Adam and Nicholas. His Grandmothers, Marie Girard (d. Douglas Girard) and Joy Linder (d. Jack O’Reilly). Graces brothers and sisters and spouses, Allen and Irenea, Shelly and Gary and Deborah (Predeceased by Graces brother and sister Leo and Theresa). Steve’s brothers and sister and spouses, Greg and Cristina, Dave and Kathy and Kim and John. As well as many cousins who loved him very much. Sometimes in life there are losses. Losses that can never really be replaced. Losing you has been the hardest thing we have ever had to live with. We were not ready to say goodbye. We were not ready to let you leave. We would give anything for just one more day, just one more hour, just one more minute. But we have learned to trust in unconditional love. Because the one profound thing about death is that love never dies. Some bonds cannot be broken. Because even though you’re not physically here, your heart is. It lives on within us. We will carry your heart inside ours. We will carry it on the days when we find courage to heal and to grow. We will carry it with us always. Someday we will meet again. And we will no longer be separated by time and space. But until that day, we will find comfort in knowing that you are still with us. Your heart safely tucked inside ours. Some hearts just belong together, and nothing will ever change that. We loved you then, we love you now. We will always love you forever. Forever in our minds, forever in our hearts. We will carry you forever. A Memorial Service in Liam's honour will be held on Sunday, July 16, 2023 at 11:00 am at the Musqueam Community Centre, 6777 Salish Drive, Vancouver, BC, where flowers may be delivered the day of at 10:30am. Donations kindly appreciated to CAMH Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Foundation Timothy Scott Etherington passed away on May 23, 2023 at Burnaby, BC. A private burial will be held. He will be missed by all who knew him. passed away on April 29, 2023 at New Westminster, BC. A private burial will be held. He will be missed by all who knew him.
With sadness and love, the family of Maria Romana Hockin wish to announce her passing on June 12, 2023 in Abbotsford, BC, Canada.
Maria is predeceased by daughter Susanna Rodela Williamson. She is survived by her children David, Daniel, Carla (James), Lloyd (Marina), and her many grandchildren and great grandchildren. Maria was born in 1937 in the town of Kanal, in western Slovenia on the border with Italy. She had a difficult early life, growing up during the Second World War, her family would often take refuge in nearby caves during bombing and raids. Her father Andrej was a veteran of the first world war and he spoke many languages, including German, which probably helped him protect his family. Even after the war, life in Yugoslavia was difficult, parts of towns had been destroyed and there were food shortages. Maria had 7 siblings and perhaps her parents had trouble keeping all of them fed, as when she was only 7 years old, she was sent away to live with an aunt in Italy, where she helped to work on a farm and attended school. When she came back home a couple years later, she barely recognized her parents and siblings. She then stayed with her family in Kanal, went to nursing school, and then worked for several years at the seaside hospital of Valdoltra. This was a beautiful location and it seemed like a happy time for her; she would tell stories of hours spent swimming in the Adriatic sea, eating ripe fruits and caring for patients who felt like family. When she was around 26 years old she met Josef Rodela, who would become her first husband. They left Yugoslavia to escape the communist regime, and passed through Italy, Austria, France, and ended up in Germany for a while, where her first daughter Susie was born. In 1965 the family of 3 came via ocean liner to Canada to start a new life. Over the next few years they moved around Canada as Josef sought work in the mines, and she had 2 more children, sons David and Danny. In 1970 they were living in east Vancouver when Maria received devastating news that her husband was killed in a mining accident, and she was left a single mother with 3 children under the age of 6. This was a very challenging time for her, without much social support, however with the life insurance money she was able to buy a house on Melbourne St in Vancouver and made a stable home for her family. A couple years later she married Lloyd Hockin and had two more children, Carla and Lloyd. She was a headstrong and resourceful woman and worked hard to support her family, trying different ventures over the years - buying and renovating homes, starting a janitorial business, owning small grocery stores, and working as a nurses’ aide. In later years, her favorite work was to spend summer days on a farm picking berries. She was an expert knitter and enjoyed creating blankets and sweaters for her loved ones, and also used her talents to make custom orders for a knitwear store in Vancouver. Mom also enjoyed cooking for her family - every Christmas and Easter holiday she would bake large batches of Slovenian bread and cakes to give to family and friends. Through all the hardships she was always a faithful Christian, raising her family in Christ and attending church. Her faith and prayer kept her going through hard times. Chester Payou, age 53, passed away in the comfort of his home at Surrey, BC on May 17, 2023.
He suffered through a long, hard battle with cancer where he wouldn’t give up on life. He was an kind hearted person who loved life and didn't hesitate to make people smile. He will sorely be missed. He is survived by wife Carol Hope, step-children: Rosalie Giroux, Duran Giroux, William Garner, and Cameron Garner, sister Charlene Payou, half-sister Tanesha Harvey, aunt Madeleine Dourin, uncle Colby Payou, numerous step-grandchildren and cousins, as well as many aunts and uncles. He was predeceased by his mother Julie Payou, father Peter Harvey, grandparents Pierre and Mable Payou and Felix and Agnes Goodswimmer A Memorial will take place in a Surrey baseball field on Sunday, May 28. His ashes will be spread at his original home in Sturgeon Lake, Alberta. Date TBA. Daughter of Minnie (nee Thomas) and Francis Point, in Musqueam territory, Steveston, BC., Frances fished with her father every summer in Rivers Inlet, BC, where she met her husband Chief Delbert V. Guerin. Together they raised 7 kids and one grandchild. Frances served Musqueam Indian Band Administration from 1960 - 2020. Frances' legacy is her family and the work achieved to make our home a better place. An evening Prayer service will be held on Tuesday, May 23 at 7:00pm followed by a Funeral Mass on Wednesday, May 24 at 10:00 am both held at the Musquem Community Centre, 6777 Salish Dr, Vancouver.
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