Thomas Omega Maitland, April 20, 1936 - September 11, 2014
With deep regrets, I have to announce the passing of my father Tom at the age of 78. Predeceased by his wife Joan and son Darran, Tom leaves behind his daughter Sherry (Ron) Foort, grandchildren Maitland and Brodie, his brother-in-law Skip Waldorf, sister-in-law Carol Waldorf, his sister Mara Smith in Edmonton, AB and many nieces and nephews. He will be sadly missed by his family and friends.
At Tom’s request, there will be no funeral service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Cancer Society.
Diane Maitland (née Sturdy), December 26, 1945 - September 13, 2014
Di was one of a kind, who touched the lives of all who knew her. Born in Kent, England to Walter and Jean Sturdy, she grew up in West Vancouver with her two brothers Paul and Morgan in a home of good times and laughter.
Di was happiest when involved in any sport, in her garden, in a boat, with her dogs or with her sewing machine. She met the love of her life and best friend Ron when they were sailing as teenagers at Royal Vancouver Yacht Club. Their love of the wind led them on many adventures together and with their three daughters Sandy, Lindsey and Courtney. Di enjoyed many summers and holidays up at Lang Bay with family and friends. After her retirement from West Vancouver Secondary, Ron and Di decided in 2011 that it was time for
one last move (number 15) up to Powell River. It was no coincidence that their move up the coast re-established old friendships while creating new ones.
When diagnosed with cancer in 2012, family, friends and her new community gave Di strength to help fight the disease with dignity and grace. She was an extraordinaire of many things especially her sewing, canning and entertaining. Di was full of laughter, joy, friendship, strength and a generosity that knew no bounds. She was a remarkable wife, mom, sister, aunt, friend and the best Di Di, grandmother and mother-in-law to grandchildren Finlay, Molly, Colton, Cassie, Louie and Poppy and sons-in-law Mick, Simon and Ryan.
Di's passion was enjoying laughter and making memories with her family who will miss her more than words can say. Di's motto and wish for us all is “To be strong and carry on.”
A celebration of Di’s life will take place in Powell River at a future date.
Friends of Amelia (Piccoli) Gustafson are invited to attend her celebration of life Saturday, September 20, 1 pm at Carlson Community Club, 4463 Joyce Avenue.
Lunch to follow.
Gerry deGroot
Gerry passed away September 2, 2014 in Nanaimo after a brief battle with cancer.
He is survived by his children Ted (Kelly), Rick (Wendy), Laura (Roger) and Tracey (Dean), companion Margaret Dick, grandchildren Breanna, Emily, Matthew, Benjamin, Braeden, Andrew, Jared and Alyssa, siblings Mary, Pete (Diane), Bill (Heather), John (Carol), Nancy (Roland), Betty (Darryl), Adrian (Cathy) and Ted (Sharon). He was predeceased by his wife of 52 years Mary, his daughter Anna Marie and sister Corrie.
Gerry was a dedicated family man, a good friend, an active volunteer in his community and an avid curler and curling instructor. He will be deeply missed by both family and friends.
A memorial service will be held at 11:30 am, Saturday, September 27 in Nanaimo at Bethlehem Retreat Centre, followed by a celebration of life in the Deerwood Community Clubhouse.
Lawrence Wayne (Larry) Hopkins, December 29, 1948 - September 14, 2014
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Larry Hopkins at the age of 65.
Larry was predeceased by his parents Dick and Peggy and his brother Bob. He leaves behind to mourn his daughter Debra, his grandchildren Sadie and Shane, his brother Bill (Maureen) and his sisters Margie (Terry), Kathy (Gerry), Laurie and Barb (Brian) as well as many nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews and many close friends.
Larry was born and raised in Powell River. He was a devoted son and he never missed an opportunity to spend time with his family. He loved going to work and spent many an hour joking and laughing with his work family. He enjoyed being in the outdoors, and would walk for miles.
Larry was a gentle soul and he had a great love for animals. He will be dearly missed by all those who knew and loved him.
Larry’s family will be holding a private memorial service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to SPCA.
Michael Alan Friedman, November 18, 1942 - September 5, 2014
“Oh my god!” Michael passed away at home after a heroic battle with cancer. He was an accomplished artist and chef, a lover of theatre and films—indeed of all things creative. He was strongly opinionated with a brusque sense of humour that kept him laughing as long as he was able.
An extraordinary and memorable character, Michael will be deeply missed by his many friends. He is survived by his sister Judith, his children Joshua, Jennifer and Jonathan, his many grandchildren and his ex-wife and good friend Linda.
A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on October 11, 2 pm at his home on 2040 Edyth Road in Lund.