Lesley (Barney) Bestwick
Barney was born January 9, 1923 in Ocean Falls, B.C. to Agnes and Leslie Bestwick. Barney grew up living in logging camps and attended eleven different schools before graduating in Victoria.
In 1942, at 19 yrs. of age, he joined the Navy; his first posting was the HMCS Tecumseh Navy Base in Calgary. Barney was always top of his classes which provided him with extra leave passes to attend the local dances; one of his favourite pass times. Barney was then assigned to the engine room of the HMSC Moosejaw a Corvette based out of Cardiff, Wales. He served until 1945.
Upon returning Barney was registered to start Forestry. On the day of registration he noticed a sign for free aptitude testing and decided to partake. He showed a strong aptitude for accounting, there was an opening with Mr. Power in Nanaimo. Thus becoming one of the founding partners of Bestwick & Partners, now know locally as Meyers Norris and Penny.
Barney and Mabel met at a Pygmy Dance in 1948, married September 30, 1950, and never looked back. Marriage and parenting were a priority for Barney. Barney and Mabel led an extremely social life within the community. They enjoyed many events ranging from charity galas to coffee with friends.
As a father and grandfather he spent many hours at team sport events, the skating rink, horse shows, swim meets and the ski hill, anywhere his family was involved. Whenever possible he attended games and performances of his grandchildren, sometimes having to travel thousands of miles to do so. Nothing made him happier than when the family spent time together.
Twenty years ago Barney initiated a week at Christina Lake to ensure the children and grandchildren spent time together. This tradition has continued at various lakes over the years. Last summer was the first year he was unable to attend. This tradition will continue in his memory at Adams Lake.
Barney is survived by Mabel, his loving wife of 60 years; brother William; children: Clive (Bobbin), Diane, Grant, Kim (Bill); grandchildren: Mitchell, Gary, Gavin, Josh, Ryan, Ian, Jennifer, Lorne and Carly as well as many great grandchildren. He will be sorely missed by all.
A memorial service will be held March 1, 2010 at 1:00 p.m. at Sands Funeral Chapel, 1 Newcastle Avenue, Nanaimo, B.C.
In lieu of flowers please donate to the Palliative Care Unit at Nanaimo General Hospital, 102 - 1801 Bowen Road, Nanaimo, B.C. V95 1H1 or Prostate Cancer Canada, 145 Front St. E., Suite 306 Toronto, On, M5A 1E3
SANDS ~ NANAIMO 250-753-2032