Passed peacefully with his family by his side January 7, 2016. Predeceased by his loving wife, Dorothy, in 1983.
Dad’s parents immigrated to Nanaimo from Whitehaven, England to work in the coal mines. Born and raised in Nanaimo, Dad could relate many colourful stories of growing up here and the way our city has evolved over the years. As a boy, he worked for Spencer’s Store on Nicol Street making deliveries on his bicycle after school and on Saturdays. As a young man, he worked on the CP ferry Princess Elaine as an oiler and fireman.
It was during this time that Dad was drafted into the Merchant Marines. Marriage came along and Dad became a millworker at Harmac providing for his family and remaining there until his retirement.
Enjoyed travel - Hawaii, Mexico, Europe and visiting family in Cumbria, England were among his favourite memories. Loved a good game of crib...especially when he won. A kind loving Father who was always there to guide us down the right path.
He leaves to mourn his 3 children - Barry, Brian (Merle) and Lori (Robert) all of Nanaimo. Grandchildren - Dr. Tracy Durksen (Frank) Sydney Australia, Jason Calvin (Nanaimo) and Jeffrey Calvin (Jungmi) Qualicum Bay. Special long-time friends Gary Fitchell and Murray Charleson. Our thanks to Dr. Nick Schulson, the staff of Nanaimo Senior Village Assisted Living and the RN's on the 3rd floor of the Nanaimo Regional Hospital for their grace and compassion during Dads recent illness.
"You held our hands when we were small
You caught us when we fell.
The hero of our childhood and latter years, as well.
Every time we think of you, our hearts they swell with pride
And although we'll always miss you
We know you're by our side.
In laughter and in sorrow, in sunshine and in rain
We know you're watching over us...until we meet again."
We love you Dad.