Helen “Halina” Ross (née Produn), January 17, 1935 - April 2, 2012
Helen passed away peacefully after a lengthy struggle with Alzheimer’s disease. She was predeceased by her parents, husband Don and son James and is survived by sons Hal (Colleen) and Scott (Robyn), grandchildren Kyle, Marissa, Holly, Miles and Charlotte, great-granddaughter Alice, and many extended family members.
Helen was born in Wolyn, Ukraine and was the cherished only child of Alexsanza and Sam Produn. The family immigrated to Wadena, Sask. in 1938. Helen married Don, the love of her life in 1955 and moved to Steveston, BC. They were blessed with three sons: James, Hal and Scott. Helen and Don’s home was a popular gathering place for family, friends and neighbours as Helen had a gift for making people feel welcome and was known for her gracious hospitality. Helen taught herself to paint and it became a life long passion. She loved to paint portraits and the wilderness views from their cabin along the Squamish River. Helen and Don retired to Brackendale and spent their time visiting family and friends there and at the cabin.
After the passing of her beloved husband Don, Helen relocated to Powell River to be near her son Hal. Helen enjoyed her quiet life and panoramic ocean views from her condo until her illness necessitated moving to Evergreen Extended Care Unit (EECU) where she was competently and compassionately cared for.
Helen’s gentle and giving nature touched all who knew her and she will be lovingly remembered.
A sincere thank you to all the staff at EECU, and to Dr. Heather Dohm. Funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 14 at 11 am at the Squamish Funeral Chapel, 40440 Tantalus Road, Garibaldi Highlands, BC. Interment to follow at Mount Garibaldi Cemetery, Squamish. Reception to follow. Anyone wishing to do so can sign the book of condolences. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer Society of BC.
Robert George Timothy, July 26, 1946 - April 5, 2012
Bob’s family is sad to announce his passing on April 5. His wake will be held on Thursday, April 12 at 4 pm at the Sliammon Salish Centre. Memorial services will be held on Friday, April 13 at noon at the Sliammon Sacred Heart Church. He will be missed but never forgotten by his family and friends.
Dr. William Edward John Bennett, February 12, 1921 - April 6, 2012
It is with sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our dearly loved husband, father, and grandfather. Dr. Bennett was born in London, England and graduated from King’s College Hospital in 1943. Following wartime service, he qualified as a surgeon and emigrated to Canada in 1955. Starting in Twillingate, Newfoundland, with his young wife in tow, he moved steadily westward via Swift Current and Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, before settling on the edge of the salt water in Powell River in 1972. He practiced as a general surgeon until his retirement in 1989.
Dr. Bennett was an active man, loving skiing, auto-racing, hiking and sailing, especially on his beloved sailboat Niamh. He will be remembered for his gentlemanly manner, great sense of humour, and hearty laugh.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Dr. Yvette Franklin, his daughters Dr. Mary Bennett (David Cunningham), Susan Bennett (Chris Tucker), and grandchildren Matthew, Timothy, Benjamin and Sara Cunningham and Emma and Megan Tucker. He was predeceased by his son Dr. Alan Bennett in 1988.
The family would like to thank Dr. David May for his care over the years, and John DeVries for his physical therapy and ongoing companionship. We would also like to thank the staff at Olive Devaud Residence for their care over the past two years.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, May 19 at 1 pm at St. David and St. Paul Anglican Church. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Powell River Hospital Foundation.
Victoria (Tori) Royce, May 20, 1914 - March 29, 2012
Tori was a long-time resident of Powell River. She was predeceased by her first husband Ted, her companion Harry Devitt and 11 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her children Chuck (Anita), Bill, Linda (Alex), four grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.
Mum was a great lover of music and spent time playing her organ and listening to her stereo. She also took an interest in interior decorating and in her younger years did a lot of walking.
The family would like to thank Dr. Naude and staff at Olive Devaud Residence for the excellent care she received while in residence there.
Cremation and no service by her request.