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June 27, 1923 - August 3, 2018
It is with heavy hearts that the family of Amelia had to say their final goodbye early on the morning of 3rd of August 2018. Predeceased by her parents David and Agnes John, brothers James and Robert John, her first husband Howard Besson, her second husband Ron Eliason, son Jim Besson, daughter Wendy Besson and son-in-law Mel Pratt. Mom leaves to mourn her passing daughter Dora Pratt, son Joe Besson (Louise), and daughter Kim Strathearn (Rob), 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren.

Mom was born in her grandmother Gillespie's home what was then Machleary St. She grew up next door in the family home with her two brothers. Mom met our Dad, Howard while the South Alberta Regiment was training at the Nanaimo Military Camp. They married on his return after the end of the 2nd World War and settled in Harewood. Mom was a real home-body and home-maker. She was an accomplished sewer, making many of our clothes when we were young. She was also a great knitter and knitted countless sweaters, toques, socks, slippers and afghans for us and baby outfits for her grandchildren as they began to arrive. In her later years at Kiwanis Lodge, her greatest pleasure was knitting dishcloths and giving them to her caregivers. She loved being at Kiwanis and she cared deeply for her caregivers.

Mom loved her family deeply, always remembering birthdays and special days for all of us. In June, Mom was able to celebrate her 95th birthday with all of her family present. She enjoyed the day immensely. Mom was strong of spirit and kind of heart.

Many thanks to all the caregivers and staff at Kiwanis Lodge, especially the 3rd floor staff for the wonderful care that Mom has received over the past three years and also to Kiwanis House for the wonderful care that she received for the previous eight years. Also, a very special thank you to Dr. Wallis for her kind and loving care of Mom.

Always Loved, Never Forgotten Forever Missed

There will be a service for Mom, October 13th, 2018 from 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm at the Frith Radcliffe auditorium, Kiwanis Village, 1233 Kiwanis Cres., Nanaimo, BC.

Service Details

Celebration of Life
Saturday, October 13, 2018
2:00 PM
Frith Radcliffe auditorium, Kiwanis Village, 1233 Kiwanis Cres., Nanaimo


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