Obituary: Ijah Patterson 2007-2024

In loving memory of our dearly beloved and now departed son Ijah. Ijah is incredibly cherished and missed by his father, mother, sister, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, teenage second cousins, and friends. Ijah N. Patterson was born in Gibsons, B.C. on Sept. 19, 2007 to Iwah Patterson and Shareen Archibald. He was raised and nurtured on Saltspring Island, which he loved, from the age of 1 yr. He will surely be remembered by B.C. community members, as well as those in Hawaii and Oregon where he spent time, as a vibrant, creative, light filled child that engaged and delighted the hearts of many. Ijah made an impact on all who met him, and those who truly knew him loved him and felt his love for them. Ijah had challenges as a youth but had recently devoted himself to moving forward in redemption of those difficulties. In a transcendent manner he extended himself in exceeding gestures of warmth, tenderness, and appreciation to those around him and made plans to better hi…
Read more about Obituary: Ijah Patterson 2007-2024

Obituary: Tamar Griggs

Tamar Griggs December 4, 1941 - December 27, 2024 Tamar was born Dec 4, 1941 in Tacoma, WA to Johanna Frieda Clement and Chauncey Leavenworth Griggs. She passed away from natural causes at her home on Salt Spring Island on the morning of Dec 27, 2024. She is now reunited with her cherished sister, Naomi Griggs. Tamar lived with a sparkle in her eyes, endless curiosity, a deep love for her family, the Salt Spring community, and hundreds of creative projects that she pursued with passion through her final days. In the early 1970s, Tamar taught childrenā€™s workshops about whale conservation. She compiled a collection of their poetry and paintings about whales, which was published as a book titled ā€œThereā€™s A Sound In The Seaā€. The Smithsonian Institute created a traveling exhibition with the book for the UN Marine Mammal Conference. In 1980 Tamar earned a Bachelor of Education from Simon Fraser University, with a double minor in Biology and English. After enriching pe…
Read more about Obituary: Tamar Griggs

Obituary: In Loving Memory of Hans Dobner

Hans Dobner 1928 ā€“ 2024 Hans came into the world in Loeben, Austria. At that time, Austria was still struggling with the devastating aftermath of World War I. For a brief time, he found himself in a boarding school isolated from those he loved. Though it was a difficult time for him, and always found joy in the beauty of creation. Hans was 11 years old when Austria found itself embroiled in another world war with young Hans remembering looking at the terror of his fatherā€˜s face when the news came over the radio that another world war was declared. By 1945 Hans was old enough to be recruited and found himself in the frightening role of a soldier in the war in March 1945. His troop was ordered to travel to Augsburg, Germany, where they were to have training on the guns and shoot enemy planes at close range, obviously putting the lives of those young men in great peril. However, the train to take the young recruits to Augsburg was forced to stop at Munich because the city…
Read more about Obituary: In Loving Memory of Hans Dobner

Obituary: In Loving Memory of Chip Chipman

In Loving Memory of Chip Chipman Chip's wife Jan and his son Peter and daughter Heather want to share with you that Chip passed suddenly and peacefully in his bed in December. Although we were expecting it after his year of dealing with mesothelioma, the suddenness of his death was unexpected. We are so grateful that we were all by his side in his final moments. We thought we would have more time with him, but we are grateful that he no longer had to suffer all the pain and discomforts of his illness. He was the best husband, father, father-in-law (to James) and grandfather (to Liam and Samuel) we could have ever wished for. He was the oldest of eleven brothers and sisters whom he loved dearly and who all looked up to him. We have been receiving loving notes of condolences from all over the world from people whose lives were changed for the better because of Chip. He loved being with our family and our dear friends, playing his guitar, singing, hiking, bird watching, t…
Read more about Obituary: In Loving Memory of Chip Chipman

Obituary: John and Sylvia Andrews

John Andrews April 21, 1926 - October 2, 2024 Sylvia Andrews February 22, 1932 - November 6, 2024 John and Sylvia Andrews, inseparable companions for 67 years, dying weeks apart in the Fall of 2024. John on Oct. 2nd at 98, and Sylvia on Nov. 6th at 92. In a letter to Sylvia prior to their marriage, John foretold how their lives would unfold: ā€œI feel my whole life to be built around or entwined with yours and would not want it any other wayā€¦. all my love Darling, forever.ā€ John William Henry Andrews was born on April 21, 1926 in Suez, Egypt to an English father, who was a senior manager for the Eastern Telegraph Company, and to a Spanish mother, the daughter of a well-loved and respected doctor. John spent his childhood in Malta but was schooled in Hastings, England, where his family eventually settled. With the fall of France this peaceful seaside town became the front line, which drew John into the Royal Observer Corps, counting enemy aircraft as they flew overhea…
Read more about Obituary: John and Sylvia Andrews

Obituary: John Hobbs March 28, 1945 - November 17, 2024

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of John Hobbs, who left us peacefully in his sleep at Lady Minto Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Vancouver, John was a beacon of kindness, humour, and generosity, leaving an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. John devoted 30 years to the airline industry, beginning with CP Air and later transitioning to Air Canada, where he built a career filled with dedication and adventure. In retirement, his passion for travel and storytelling found new life as a guide sharing the beauty of Canada with visitors from around the world. A proud member of the Salt Spring Island community, John volunteered tirelessly, being an emergency POD leader for his neighbourhood and offering his time to the SSI Tourism Centre and Sendial, a Thrifty Foods shopping service for the elderly and shut-ins. John was a beloved husband, a loving father and grandfather (aka Papa G), an avid member of the Paw Patrol, and a cherished presen…
Read more about Obituary: John Hobbs March 28, 1945 - November 17, 2024

Obituary: Darcy Leigh Graham

Darcy Leigh Graham (nee Bishop) ā€” February 20, 1968 ā€“ September 25, 2024 With profound sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Darcy, surrounded by love and family at home. She will be deeply missed by her husband, Bruce; children, Holly and Fisher; sister Tracy Campbell, brother Douglas Bishop, brother-in-law Mark Campbell, brother-in-law Adam Pankhurst, nephews Morgan Campbell and Rob Scott, and niece Kaitlyn Scott. Darcy was predeceased by her parents, Doug and Ann Bishop, and sister-in-law, Susan Scott. Darcy's life was a vibrant tapestry of love, art, and adventure. Her infectious joie de vivre, creative spirit, and generous heart touched countless lives. As a devoted mother, wife, friend, and artist, she leaves behind a legacy of warmth, kindness, and beauty. Born with a spark, Darcy illuminated the world around her. Her artistic passions included painting, pottery, and design. She had a unique gift for finding beauty in everyday objects and transforming th…
Read more about Obituary: Darcy Leigh Graham

Our beloved Celeste Mallet Jason

Dear friends ~ Celeste passed peacefully Sept 9th at 9:09pm. She is held in vigil and prayer. Feel welcome to participate in prayers for her at the Salt Spring Centre of Yoga, for the next 11 days at 7:30am in the Satsang room. *** update: the 'Tarpanam' 7:30am prayers for Celeste, will be at Ganges Yoga Studio on Saturday and Sunday, Sept 14, 15th. ā€œHer body ends but her presence glows We thank you for her many gifts With deep gratitude for her radiant energy, her ongoing care of us, her wisdom and willingness, her mentorship and curiosity and love We let her go Back into divine light Back into love and formless flight We let her go Thank you to all she touched and were touched by her Much love to all Deepest bows to you dear Celesteā€ Ommmmm Shanti Shanti Shanti All love
Read more about Our beloved Celeste Mallet Jason

Obituary: Robert James Kelly

Robert James Kelly left us far too soon, passing away May 27, 2024, after a brief illness. A familiar face in the Salt Spring community, Robert drew people to him with the gentle warmth of his smile, which embodied his innate generosity of spirit as well as the curiosity, humour and intelligence of a vibrant mind. Ever a quiet adventurer, lover of birds and beasts, follower of storytellers and poets, genuine friend, and devoted lover, Robert was a rarity among men. Predeceased by his partner of many years and many adventures, Sally Cole, Robert leaves behind his daughter Soleil Aellen, sisters Linda Osborne and Cheryl Ann Kelly, and his loving partner of later years, Tannice McKillop. His uncommon strength of character inspired unquestioning confidence and trust in these and so many others, and to the end he weathered the storms of life with stoicism and grace. Robert, Bobby, Big R, you are sorely missed. We love you.
Read more about Obituary: Robert James Kelly

Obituary: Shirley June McIntyre

In Loving Memory of Shirley June (Taylor) McIntyre, RN, BSc, Mrs, Daughter, Sister, Mom, Grandmother, Aunt, Student, Teacher, Card Reader, Cook & Baker, B&B Hostess, Master of all things needlework, volunteer, friend ā€¦ July 13, 1927 ā€“ July 26, 2023 Shirley was born July 13, 1927 in Toronto, Ontario to Robert Taylor of England and Mary Fisher McBride of Maybole, Scotland; her sister, Frances Anna, followed a few years later. Shirley interned at Toronto Western Hospital and graduated with her RN Degree and went on to train as an OR nurse where, in the OR room of that very hospital, she met her future husband, Dr. John Addison McIntyre. As a young married couple with their first born daughter, Kathleen, in tow they settled in Uxbridge, Ontario, where Dr. McIntyre, as surgeon, opened Uxbridge Cottage Hospital in 1959; Shirley worked in the OR for a time. That same year her daughter, Meron, was born followed in quick succession by sons Ian and Todd. Shirley used her…
Read more about Obituary: Shirley June McIntyre

Obituary: Terry John Boswell

Terence (Terry) John Boswell July 10, 1944 ā€“ May 7, 2024 After many health battles fought and won, Terry has left us, just short of his 80th birthday. Always one with a joke or a laugh, he will be missed. Those of us who loved him are experiencing a huge, empty hole in our lives. Terry was predeceased by his wife Suzanne, his brother Roger and sister-in-law Nita. Left behind, his brothers Stephen, Michael (Kate), his nephew Joe (Lucy) and his partner Dianne. The family is holding a private celebration of Terry's life on his birthday.
Read more about Obituary: Terry John Boswell

Obituary: Nieke de Boer Visser

Nicola de Boer Visser March 2, 1946 ā€“ May 28, 2024 It is with sadness that we have to announce the passing of Nieke de Boer Visser, on her own terms. She was born in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, on March 2, 1946, to Nicolaas de Boer and Johanna Piels. She had an much older brother, Ger, who predeceased her in 2012. After her schooling in 1966, a Gymnasium, she went to the University of Amsterdam to do her medical degrees, which she finalized in 1973. At the Gymnasium in Amsterdam she met her future husband Kees. They married on October 10, 1969. After their doctoral degrees (Kees in geology), they left for Zambia in 1974, where she worked as a medical professional for the Health and Pollution Control Department of the Zambian mining industry. In 1982 they left Zambia for Calgary in Canada, where Kees was employed by Petro-Canada. Nieke discovered that Canada did not recognize her medical degrees which embittered her until her death. She found employment with t…
Read more about Obituary: Nieke de Boer Visser

Obituary: Cardin Michael Sheldon Davis

Cardin Michael Sheldon Davis Jan 16, 1990 - Apr 14, 2024 It is with profound sadness and complete heartbreak to announce the unexpected passing of our sweet, handsome, amazing son Cardin. Incredible son to Kathy Kendall and Mike Davis, little brother to Tyler (Gill) and Kecia (Sheehan) and little bro to many others. Cardin was a loving and playful uncle to Anniina, Savannah and Malika, always bringing a smile to the girlsā€™ faces. Among so many other amazing titles, he was a beloved grandson, nephew, cousin, devoted teammate and friend. He was also a passionate animal lover and dog whisperer and is already missed by our boys (his dog brothers), Doug and Frankie. Born in Victoria and raised on Salt Spring, Cardin graduated in 2008 from GISS. Athletic from a young age he excelled in all sports, especially soccer. He made his mark on the GISS high school team helping them reach the Provincial championships, played two years up on Metro teams, the BC provincial soccer teams…
Read more about Obituary: Cardin Michael Sheldon Davis

Obituary: Gerard Noel Bourdin

Bourdin, Gerard Noel December 14, 1935-April 12, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Gerry. Born in in Laurier, Manitoba, the youngest of 11 children, his early farm life was dominated by his Dadā€™s sawmill business. At a tender young age he was charged with duties such as driving a team of horses pulling loads of lumber on sleds from the sawmill back to the farm. The family eventually moved to Vancouver, where Gerry attended Gladstone High School and was a star football player on the Gladiator team. Gerry quit school in the 11th grade to help his family financially, but not before meeting his future wife, Barbara. They were married on September, 16 1955. A few years later, with great joy, they welcomed their daughter and son. Always a hard worker, Gerry helped his Dad, Leonard, on the weekends building houses, during the week he began his plumbing apprenticeship and attended night school to complete his certification. Four years later, at …
Read more about Obituary: Gerard Noel Bourdin

Obituary: Cherri Sylvia Wells

Cherri Sylvia Wells, February 22, 1937 - March 21, 2024 Cherri passed away gracefully on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the age of 87. As per her wishes, she found her final rest in the comfort of her home, surrounded by loved ones. This would not have been possible without the support of Lady Minto Home Care. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Woodly for his compassionate care over the years and for all he did to make her final months as peaceful as possible. Cherriā€™s journey began on February 22, 1937, in Gray Creek, B.C. She was the beloved daughter of Julia and Thomas Wells. Her mother, Julia, was born in Canora, Saskatchewan, and her family had immigrated from Ukraine to start their lives in Canada. Thomas had immigrated from Norfolk, England, when he was 21 to begin his new life. He ended up in Saskatchewan (Endeavour), working on a farm where he met Julia. They moved to Gray Creek, B.C., and had three children. Sadly, Cherriā€™s older brother drowned when th…
Read more about Obituary: Cherri Sylvia Wells

Obituary: Tudor Davies

Tudor Davies, 1945 October 23 -- 2024 January Tudor Davies left this world on January 15th 2024 after a courageous battle with prostate cancer. Tudor was born in 1945 in Wales, a very proud Welshman. In 1964 he joined the Gloucestershire Constabulary and served until 1995. Tudor was a firearms officer and during the last seven years of his career he was attached to the Royal Household Protection group. He was posted at Highgrove House, then home of the Prince and Princess of Wales. This was an enjoyable time for Tudor as he could carry out his passion for bird and wildlife watching. He loved sharing his knowledge with the future King. After retiring from the police force he moved to Savannah, Georgia, where his family lived. Tudor returned to the UK in 1998 and later met Gwenlais Morgan ā€“ a meeting that was to totally change his life. In August 2012 he married Gwen, the love of his life. They moved to Canada and settled on Salt Spring Island where he joined Search and …
Read more about Obituary: Tudor Davies

Obituary: Dennis Marshall

Dennis Marshall 1947ā€“2024 Dennis was a deeply kind man with a big heart that drew people to him. He was one of those old time Saltspring characters who moved to the island to live a life his way, which he did with quiet accomplishment and great joy. Dennis loved Saltspring - the beach walks, the beauty of the land, playing on the water in his armada of boats, driving itā€™s bumpy roads with a menagerie of cars and motorcyclesā€¦.but mostly, Dennis loved visiting ā€” visiting with the people he called friends. Many of you will remember him as ā€˜the glass manā€™, who ran and owned S.S.I. Glass for 45 years. We thank you for welcoming us into your homes and trusting us with your glass. In his 40s Dennis bought a beautiful piece of land with its creek, its springs, its pond and its trees. Here he built the house heā€™d always envisioned. We filled it with things beautiful and odd and made it our home. It was his favourite place to be. Dennis always needed to be making things. He …
Read more about Obituary: Dennis Marshall

Obituary: Arthur Falardeau

It is with deep sadness that the Bird Man of Creekside, Arthur Patrick Falardeau, one of Salt Spring Islandā€™s beloved characters, passed away October 7th, 2023, well loved and peacefully at Greenwoods Long Term Care facility. Art was born in Kenora, Ontario, November 21, 1933. Art and I (Raven Fox, formerly Nikki Menard), spent 23 years together since 2000. Artā€™s first wife, mother of their children, Shirley passed a few years back. He is survived by Sharlene Caux, previous partner, Sandy Johnson, also a previous partner, his children, Bud, Patty, Robyn, David and Bonnie as well as grand children and great grandchildren and soon to be born as great great granddaughter. Art was a Renaissance man from the School of Life of which he was passionate about. Art was a storyteller extraordinaire mostly about his own life experiences. While in Kenora, Ontario, he was a homesteader where he raised his five children. He also raised milking cows, cattle, chickens, pigs and rabbits, d…
Read more about Obituary: Arthur Falardeau

Obituary: Dennis and Joan McKelvie

Dennis Lachlan McKelvie September 21, 1934 - January 8, 2024 Dorothy Joan McKelvie May 12, 1933 - January 8, 2024 It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Dennis Lachlan McKelvie (September 21, 1934) and Dorothy Joan (nee Kosmack) McKelvie (May 12, 1933), after courageous long term battles with extensive illnesses. As they shared a life of over 65 years together on this earth, they chose to leave it together thru the MAID program surrounded by family, January 8, 2024. Dennis grew up in New Liskeard, Ontario excelling at school and all sports. He went on to graduate from Haileybury School of Mines before accepting a full academic scholarship to Queens University earning a Bachelor of Science Geological Sciences (Engineering) degree. He taught Chemistry and was head basketball coach at Oakvilleā€™s George E Purdue High school before embarking on his career in geology, providing the impetus to move his family West (North Vancouver) in 1966. Over the next 40…
Read more about Obituary: Dennis and Joan McKelvie

Obituary: Sharon Ann Sykes

Sharon Ann Sykes passed away peacefully at the age of 71 on Friday, January 12th, 2024 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. She was born on May 12, 1952 in Burnaby to Audree and Michael Falenda. Sharon is predeceased by both her mother and father as well as her younger brother Lorne. Sharon is survived by her sister Carol Renshaw (Jim), Husband Doug, her daughter Kimberly Beamish (Eric) and their boys Cameron and Jacob, and her daughter Amanda Cayford (Jason) and their boys Dexter and Greyston. Sharon cared deeply for her community and she was proud to call Salt Spring Island home. It brought her immense joy to watch everyone enjoy her Christmas window display at Mouatā€™s each season. Sharon loved to spend her days watching her daughters and grandsons play sports, especially baseball. She also enjoyed creating cake masterpieces and timeless crafts. Her favourite place to spend her time was on her porch with her spring flowers and surrounded by butterflies. If she w…
Read more about Obituary: Sharon Ann Sykes