MILES, Elwood
May 25, 2013
Elwood passed away peacefully at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital after a long, healthy and active life. He was born on a farm near Bentley, Alberta in 1923 to Ray and Bertha Miles, both from pioneering families in the area. He spent his childhood years in this close farming community surrounded by extended family.
After serving in the Royal Canadian Air Force, 1942-1945, Elwood married Doreen, his wife of 66 years, in 1946 and completed his Bachelor of Education degree at UBC in 1949. He began his teaching career that same year at Thomas Hodgson School in Nanaimo. Later he taught at John Shaw High School and then moved to John Barsby Secondary School when it opened. In time he became vice-principal and then later principal of the school. He always loved meeting his former students in the community.
Elwood was a strong believer in family and a good provider. He encouraged all his children to take higher education. He was generous with his extended family and friends. He was actively involved in the Brechin United Church Choir and the Malaspina Choir for many years. He also attended and supported the Vancouver Island Symphony from its inception.
Elwood liked to travel. From even the early years he would pack up the family and head off on camping trips throughout BC and into Alberta. Closer to and during retirement there was travel with Doreen to England, Europe, Mexico, Cuba, Hawaii and other places.
In his retirement years he set up his own photographic studio in his home and became involved with the processing of photos for pioneering research on killer whale identification through the Pacific Biological Station. He enjoyed this connection very much. He was also able to spend more time with his friends golfing and curling.
Elwood is predeceased by his parents and his brother, Vernon; and is survived by his wife, four children, five grandchildren, one great-grandchild and two sisters. He led a good life and will be greatly missed.
There will be a private family ceremony. No flowers by request. Donations could be made to Nanaimo Home and Community Services or Nanaimo Regional General Hospital Palliative Care Unit through the Vancouver Island Health Authority or to the charity of your choice.