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Obituaries: November 16, 2011

Jesse David Daniel Thomson, August 14, 1989 - November 1, 2011 It is with great sadness to announce the departure of our beloved son Jesse Thomson.

Jesse David Daniel Thomson, August 14, 1989 - November 1, 2011

It is with great sadness to announce the departure of our beloved son Jesse Thomson. Jesse is survived  by his father Robert, mother Earlene, sister Kristy, grandparents Dave and Gloria Tillapaugh and Neil and  Donna Thomson, many aunts, uncles and cousins.

We wish to thank the doctors of Vancouver General Hospital for their devoted care of our beloved son in  his final days. There will be no service by request. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Taken away from us way too soon

We will see you by the light of the moon,

Close in our hearts and not so far

Jesse, you are now our shining star.

Across the ocean and over the seas

Spread your wings for you are free.


Claude Francoise Poumerol, October 2, 1948 (Orleans, France) - November 4, 2011 (Powell River, BC)

Paralympian Finishes Her Final Race

Claude Francoise Poumerol, who not only won a gold medal in the 100-metre track event at the 1988  Seoul Paralympics, she also set a world record. In addition, she won a silver medal in the 200-metres at  the same games. This was a dream that began in France when Claude was a teenager. A motor vehicle accident changed the course of history. Decades later, when she became an amputee, she could resume running and begin to pursue her long-held dream.

Feisty, stubborn, determined and more, these are qualities that many athletes have and are desirable for  winning in most arenas. She took them into her personal life and was able to achieve many things –  motivational speaker, BC Champion of Toastmasters, International and charitable works in Honduras – to name but a few.

Her final race ended November 4 in Powell River General Hospital succumbing to an arch enemy of many, cancer. She can be at peace now and rest. Her spirit and impact will be felt and live on in all who knew and loved her from around the globe.

Claude is survived by her children, Nathalie Hrad of Courtenay, Steve Hrad of Powell River and her brother Eric Poumerol of Paris, France. Claude was predeceased by her husband and love of her life,  Bryan Toews.

There will be a celebration of life held on Friday, November 18 from 2 - 4 pm at Cranberry Seniors' Centre in Powell River. In lieu of flowers, any contributions can be made to the Amputee Coalition of BC, 10080 Numer 3 Road, Richmond, BC V7A 1W4.


Doreen Anne Turchet, October 24, 1941 - November 12, 2011

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful mom Doreen shortly after her 70th birthday. Anyone who knew Mom loved her and will always remember her quick humour and the ability to make anyone laugh.

Left to remember her are her son Larry (Karin), daughters Rhonda (Rick) and Reeny (Dean). She was  predeceased by her husband Mel and youngest daughter Lee-Ann. Doreen loved her grandchildren  Ashleigh, Ricky, Amanda, Brittany, Steven and Lauren.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 19 at 1 pm from Stubberfields Chapel. The family would like to send an extra special thank you to our cousin Christine and all the nurses at Evergreen Extended Care Unit.

You will be in our hearts forever and always.


Rose Marie Ridgway (née Anderson)

Rose was born on August 30, 1936 in Duncan, BC and passed away on October 28, 2011. Peace at last with her Lord.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, November 19 at 2 pm at the Salvation Army Citadel in Powell River.