Robert "Ross” Monk, May 24, 1934 - June 30, 2013
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Ross at the age of 79 years after a courageous and lengthy battle with cancer. He was a loving husband, father, brother, grandpa “gramps,” uncle and a real gentleman. Although we are relieved that Ross’ (Dad’s) struggle is over, there will only ever be one “Rosco.” He was truly a well known legend in Powell River, being the proud owner/operator and Chrysler dealer of Monk’s Super Service for 45 years. This site is a Powell River landmark known as “Monks on Marine.”
Ross was born in Sedgewick, Alberta and together with his family moved to Powell River at the age of 16. Ross was first employed at the Powell River Company for a couple of years, became a bus driver for Powell River, then became a businessman owning his own business.
Ross was predeceased by his parents and two sisters. Ross is survived by his loving wife of 56 years Netta, daughter Sandy (Barry) of Nanaimo and son Douglas (Susan) of Powell River. He also leaves behind a sister Elaine of Victoria and will also be sadly missed by his grandchildren Kurtis and Kaitlyn (fiancé Chamberlain) whom he adored.
Ross had a strong sense of community having served for 11 years as one of the first RCMP Auxiliary members and as a volunteer fire fighter for 25 years (Honorary Member). He also served as a Returning Officer for three federal elections for the Comox/Powell River riding. He also served provincially as the Chairman of the Property Assessment Review Panel and on various committees for the City of Powell River. He had a very positive outlook, inspiring many who got to know or meet him. He was deeply loved by his family, friends and previous employees.
The family would like to give special thanks to the fourth floor nurses and the emergency room for the care they provided. Our deepest gratitude to his special doctors Danielle Marentette and Susan Horsfall for the loving and professional care they gave to Ross.
There will be a celebration of life on Tuesday, July 9, from 1 to 3 pm at Powell River Town Centre Hotel, 4660 Joyce Avenue. Please bring stories from happier times as there will be an open microphone. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Powell River Health-Care Auxiliary, c/o Powell River General Hospital, 5000 Joyce Avenue, Powell River, V8A 5R3, will be gratefully accepted.
Alfred James Gray
Born May 25, 1926 in Gilbert Plains, Manitoba, Alfred passed away peacefully on June 20 at Victoria General Hospital. In his last days he was gladly anticipating going to be with the Lord and was able to spend time with family around him.
Alfred grew up in Gilbert Plains and as a young man worked in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta before settling down in Powell River in 1951. In August 1960, he married Lilian Abbott, who predeceased him in 2009. Alfred was also predeceased by his brother John, who was killed in action in May, 1945. In 2006, Alfred and Lily moved to Victoria to be closer to family.
Alfred is survived by his three children John (Judy), Susan and Iris and four grandchildren Joshua, Vanessa, James and Katelyn.
Thank you to the staff at Victoria General Hospital for their kindness and to the residents and staff at Alexander Mackie Lodge for their friendship and laughter.
Shirley Waterman (née Davies), June 30, 1930– June 29, 2013
Shirley passed away one day short of her 83rd birthday and will be greatly missed by her husband of 61 years Daniel Waterman, three children Terry, Wendy and Dawn, daughter-in-law Jane, son-in-law Murphy, four grandchildren Christopher, Paul, Kathryn and Samantha and great-grandchild Rocky.
Shirley was a resident of Texada Island and Powell River for over 70 years and had a heart for community service, volunteering with Girl Guides and Brownies, Powell River Health-Care Auxiliary and the Senior Citizens’ Association of Powell River, Branch 49 among others. Shirley’s last request was to tell all her friends how much she appreciated them and to say thank you for enriching her life.
Thank you to Doctor Watson, home care nurses, Powell River General Hospital staff and hospice volunteers for their care at the end of Shirley’s life.
No service by request. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to British Columbia and Yukon Cancer Society, 565 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5Z 4J4.
Mildred Lillia n Byles, April 15, 1923 - June 30, 2013
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mildred. She has gone to join her son Floyd and husband Jack. Left to mourn are her loving and devoted children David (Janet), Marie (George) and Norita. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and daughter-in-law Dee.
The family would like to thank the home support workers for their care and kindness shown to Mildred, also the nursing staff at Powell River General Hospital and Evergreen Extended Care Unit for the care and comfort they provided Mildred in her final days.
Please join our family in remembering and celebrating Mildred’s life on Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at 1 pm at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 164, lower hall. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the charity of your choice.
Donna Mae Janzen, September 2, 1939 - June 30, 2013
A life-long resident of Powell River, Donna passed away Sunday evening in Powell River General Hospital with family by her side at the age of 73.
She is survived by her loving husband of 53 years Frank, son Randy of Powell River and daughter Rhonda (Janzen) Randle of Calgary, Alberta.
Donna lived a full and rich life, retired early and was blessed to be able to enjoy travelling down south every year to Arizona, having fun with Frank and meeting many new friends along the way and enjoying her faith in God. She is at peace now.
A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 8 at 1 pm at Stubberfield Funeral Home, 7221 Duncan Street. Graveside service for family only. We will be having an open house at 3504 Marine Avenue (Randy's house) for all who would like to attend.
Anne Desilets, May 5, 1928 - June 24, 2013
It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce Anne’s sudden passing at the age of 85. She was predeceased by her daughter Adrienne in 1990. Mom will be greatly missed by her loving husband of 65 years Lionel, children Rolland (Nancy), Yvonne (C.P.), Juliette (Rick), Jerome (Nadine), Luke (Angela), Claire (David) and her 32 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, with the latest great-grandchild coming four days prior to Anne’s death, as well as many nieces and nephews and her many relatives and friends.
Anne Pravda was born at home on the farm in Valley Center near Rosetown, Saskatchwan. She attended a one-room school house until grade eight, then went to a convent until high school was completed. She advanced quickly skipping a few grades and at the age of 17 started an internship to take on the profession of being a school teacher. She finished her practicum and was hired to teach in a one room school house with eight grades consisting of 28 students near St. Walburg, Saskatchewan.
Anne attended a church bazaar in the area and met Lionel Desilets while he was on leave after coming back from overseas duties in the army during the summer of 1945. They were smitten with love for each other.
Anne continued her teaching career at the Farm School House. Lionel was discharged from the army in January, 1946 and seeking a way to make a living headed west, hearing of work on the coast, all the while keeping in touch with Anne by letters three times or so per week. Lionel arrived in Powell River in April, 1947, then in July of 1947 sent Anne $100, which back then was a little better than two weeks’ pay, so she could come out to be with him. Anne travelled by train to the coast and met Lionel arriving by ship from Powell River. The next day they took the ship to Powell River.
Anne and Lionel were married four days later at St. Joseph’s church in the Townsite. It was August 9, 1947.
They first lived at Mrs. Higgins ranch on the top of Wildwood hill. From the ranch they moved to Edgehill into a small fully furnished house purchased for $3,700. In 1954 the house on Michigan Avenue, which they lived in for nearly 60 years, was purchased.
Anne was involved in the Catholic Women’s League, filling the role of president among other positions. She was an avid bridge player, quilter, knitter and made some fantastic apple pies and plum dumplings. Anne took to cooking with a passion and had a real flair for trying different recipes, taking cooking courses and keeping the family very well fed. She enjoyed travelling, whether it was a drive to the prairies, a cruise to Alaska or going with friends to Hawaii, the Bahamas, or numerous other destinations. Visits and time spent with family and friends were among the highlights of her life as well as church and religious celebrations. Anne loved the music and performances brought into town, and having billets from around the world.
She will be deeply and dearly missed by all who knew her.
The family would like to thank emergency personnel and medical staff at Powell River General Hospital who responded, Father Neufeld for administering last rites and celebrating Funeral Mass. Thank you to all who came to remember Anne, especially for those who came from out of town to be with the family. Your presence is a comfort, your prayers and support are very much appreciated. Thank you to all who provided food, sent flowers and condolences.
God bless you all.
Edythe Mary Collins, April 26, 1917 - June 30, 2013
A very special, caring and talented lady with a wonderful sense of humour has passed away at the age of 96.
Edythe will be greatly missed and always remembered by her family and friends.
At her request, there will be no service.