Bob Burnside
Bob died peacefully with his loved ones by his side Sunday, March 9, 2014 around 3 am. He leaves behind his mother Nancy Dorothy Vizzutti, wife Michelle Bertrand and his precious daughter Matilda. He also leaves behind five adult children whom he led through life with fatherly direction: Jessika Parsons, Dominick Landry (and his son Xavier), Amy Rosborough (her husband Josh and Bob’s munchkins Maya
and Lola), Raphael Bertrand (his partner Jamie Storm) and Cedric Bertrand (his wife Suk Yi Kim and her daughter Leah).
Also left to mourn are Bob’s sister Sandy Cyr (her husband Gary and their children Kerry and James), sister Milda Leggett (her husband Wayne), his extended family and too many friends to name.
Bob cared a lot about people his whole life, especially children, whom he taught for many years in Powell River. He was a unique character who gave so much to others expecting nothing in return. We will miss him deeply.
He was a loving husband, father, brother and teacher but more than anything a true dear friend to those who took the time to know him. We will miss his humour, kindness and unique way of connecting with others. For many, he was a living legend; there will never be another like him. Anywhere you go in Powell River, many have a story to tell about Bob as he had touched a lot of people in a lot of different ways. Wherever he is now, hopefully there is lots of fishing, a good kitchen, a good bottle of Cuban rum, good company and lots of laughter.
Bob’s request was that there be no funeral or memorial service held in his honour, however anybody who wants to remember him in their own way are more than welcome to do so as Bob would have preferred it that way. In his memory please feel free to donate to a foundation for underprivileged children or shelters for battered women as they were both causes close to Bob’s heart.
Special thanks to Dr. Paula Osoa, the home care nurses and all the people who were there to help him through his final battle with cancer.
Rest in peace, Big Guy, you deserve that break after all you’ve done for all of us. We love you with all our hearts and you will always live on through our memories, our thoughts and our hearts. See you when we get there!
Ronald Taylor Keller (aka the Flute Man), October 12, 1939 - January 10, 2014
Ron entered the Kingdom of Heaven at the age of 74.
As a young man, Ron served in the Royal Canadian Navy and later moved to the US where he began his career as a photographer.
Later, Ron became a master native spirit flute carver and was eager to share his love and passion for this instrument with everyone he met. He also enjoyed playing his sax, flute and drums and dancing to Salsa.
He is survived by his mother Rae, brother Kerry, daughter Kecia, grandchildren and one niece. He also leaves behind his dance partner, friend and companion Anna Maria.
Interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery, Nassichuk Road, on March 19 at 1 pm.
Donations may be made at a charity of choice. Funeral arrangements by Westcoast Funeral Services.
Clifford Ross Graham, February 2, 1939 - March 4, 2014
It is with a broken heart that we announce the passing of Cliff at the age of 75. He passed away peacefully with his loving wife by his side. Cliff struggled with various ailments since his stroke in 2001, but the long, hard battle with pulmonary fibrosis finally overcame him.
Cliff is survived by his wife and the love of his life Sandy, his sister Barbara (Frank), brothers John (Sherri) and Roger (Linda), his close cousin Bill (Brenda) as well as his brother-in-law Leonard (Karyn) and sisters-in-law Margaret (Ray) and Darlene (Randy). Also left to miss Cliff are his stepsons Trevor (Lora), Travis and Troy (Thia). He also leaves behind three wonderful grandchildren, Christipher (Ashley), Cassandra
and his little artist and dancer Georgina.
We would like to thank all the wonderful staff at Olive Devaud Residence, who helped to make Cliff ’s last years easier.
A celebration of life will be held for Cliff on Saturday, March 22, at Star Dusters Dance Hall, across from Timberlane Track at 1 pm.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to Powell River Stroke Recovery Club, 6811 Alexander Street, Powell River, BC, V8A 2A9, would be greatly appreciated.
Del McConnell (née Cranston) June 21, 1944 - March 8, 2014
Del passed away after a long battle with cancer. She is survived by her husband Joe, daughter Darcy (Richard) Callaghan, grandson Jamie, brother Wayne (Erika) Cranston and their daughters. Del also leaves behind her beloved and faithful friend Yuma.
No service by request. Donations in Del’s name can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation or SPCA.