Smoker,
Beatrice Evelyn
It is with sadness and yet joy that we announce the passing of Beatrice Evelyn Smoker (nee McLachlin) on Dec. 5, 2015 at the age of 92. Sadness because we will miss her, joy because she is in the presence of her Lord. Bea was born to Gertrude and Neil McLachlin May 12, 1023 in Ogema, Sask. She grew up in Saskatoon where she received her education. She is survived by her loving husband Harold of 66 years, also by her children, Gordon (Sandi), Donald (Margaret), five grandchildren, Jason (Tara), Terry, Amanda (Marc) Sequin, James (Siobhan), Brendan (Andrea) and six great grand-children. She also leaves behind her nieces, Betty Mills of Regina, and Patricia Fletcher of Vernon.
Bea moved to Vancouver in 1942 where she worked as a Stenographer for the Vancouver Police Dept., then moving on to H.A. Seniors Consulting Engineering Firm where she met Harold. They were married October 29, 1949. In August of 1950 they moved to Nanaimo where Harold worked at H.R. McMillan Pulp Mill.
They attended First Baptist Church where Bea served the Lord faithfully in various capacities. In the community she worked in the Government Agent’s office as a Court Stenographer, Health Center and then the Cancer Clinic until her retirement.
Bea will be remembered for her sharp mind, her love of knowledge, her love of people, her love of her Lord, her curiosity, her ready sense of humor and most of all for her devotion to Harold, her family and the people with whom she crossed paths. Many young people were helped by her wisdom when they were going through some difficult times.
The family would like to thank FBC for their prayers and kindness through illness as well as those PCU staff and Hospice volunteers for their competent and compassionate care.
A service will be held on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2015 at First Baptist Church, 1650 Waddington Road at 3:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to BC Children’s Hospital or the Palliative Care Unit at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital.