It’s that time for thinking back on the important people in the life of our community who left us this past year. I put out a call for people to send me word of Elphinstonians who passed away in 2019.
Joan Quarry lived in the first house on Veterans Road still there and was married to a veteran. Born in Saskatchewan, Joan moved here in 1951 and among other jobs, was a secretary at the mill. She volunteered at the Gibsons Legion and with Scouts and Girl Guides. Joan had a big heart, driving people to medical appointments and even taking in a homeless veteran. She was honoured as Gibsons Golden Girl in 1998. With an extensive family, Joan loved to cook, bake and sing and left behind some wonderful memories. She was 96 when she died in September.
Two other longtime residents of Veterans Road (and also “vets”) passed away in 2019.
Larry Boyd, who died in April, was well known throughout the community as the owner of Kenmac (now run by his son Shawn) and long-standing member of the Gibsons Legion. His absence at this year’s Remembrance Day ceremony was noted. I remember Larry well as he was always front and centre at those ceremonies and I sometimes saw him walking in my neck of the woods. Larry and his wife Yvonne had their home on Veterans Road built for them in 1961. Larry held various positions at the Gibsons Legion, including president and zone commander. He was also president of the Gibsons Winter Club, the Gibsons Lions Club and was a member of Toastmasters.
Douglas Baird died in October and although born in Winnipeg, grew up here. He was with the Canadian Air Force and served in several places in Canada and around the world. When he retired back here and lived on Veterans Road, many will remember him for being a member of the RCMP Auxiliary, working with Crimestoppers and volunteering with the Elves Club. He also ran his own income tax business. A friendly man to all, Doug loved to tinker with trains and projects in his well-equipped garage.
Drive down Veterans Road and it turns into King Road (after the Fitchett dog-leg), which is where much-loved and longtime resident Doreen Bartley lived. She and her late husband Jim (also a veteran) were the main stay behind the Elphinstone Community Association (formerly called Elphinstone Electors) for many years. Doreen was vitally involved in the community – an activist, she was a “Raging Granny” and wrote letters for Amnesty International, among her many activities. Jim and Doreen bought the land on King Road in the 1950s and the family came for holidays. The cabin was added onto after they moved to Elphinstone permanently in the early 1980s. Doreen passed away peacefully on Dec. 2 at the age of 92. Her happy, sunny personality will be sorely missed by her family and many friends. I was fortunate enough to be one, and remember well the fabulous feasts she orchestrated at their scenic setting overlooking Chaster Creek.
These people all played a positive role in the life of our community, so take a moment to remember their amazing lives and contributions. Let me know if I’ve missed anyone at [email protected]
Wishing everyone a pleasant holiday season and see you in 2020 – the year of good vision.
