Lee Faulkner of Qualicum Beach passed away unexpectedly but peacefully with his wife at his side, December 21, 2017 at the age of 85 years.
Originally from Ostrea Lake, N.S., he was brought up by his beloved Sea Captain grandfather. Having left home at 15 to work on Sable Island, Lee joined the Canadian Forces (CF) in 1949 at only17, and enjoyed a very distinguished and decorated 38+ year military career. As a 19-year-old infantry Corporal with the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR) in Korea, he received a "Mentioned in Dispatches" citation for distinguishing himself on a 'commando' raid behind enemy lines, and a 'battlefield' promotion to Sergeant on his 20th birthday.
Joining the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (RCEME) in 1957, he would attain the rank of Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) and serve in many key appointments, to include RSM of 2 Svc Bn, CFSAOE CWO, and Command CWO (CCWO) of the CF Training System.
In 1985 he was honoured to be appointed 'Member of the Order of Military Merit' by the Governor General. Over his lifetime, he greatly valued camaraderie with military units and friends, the Korea Veterans Association, Masonic Lodge, Qualicum Legion and local bridge clubs.
A quiet and reflective man, in retirement he continued his lifelong love and appreciation of the water as an avid fisherman and boater, a passion instilled in him by his grandfather. He also loved reading (especially military history), and simply enjoying the spectacular scenery outside his window.
In recent years, he realized a lifelong childhood dream of flying an airplane (thank you Sigmund!) And, no one could tell a story like Lee. All were captivated by his tales of a wonderful childhood on the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia, his years of wartime and peacetime experiences and his life's simple encounters. Indeed, he could take the most mundane subject and turn it into a humorous and entertaining story.
Family meant everything to Lee and he felt blessed to have loved and been loved so deeply. Lee is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Alma, his children Ken (Patti), and Barb (Kevin), his grandchildren, Brendan and Shea, and his step-brother Charles (Clara); he is predeceased by his brother Earl (Barbara).
In keeping with Lee's wishes, no funeral or memorial service will be held. A life well and fully-lived is his legacy. We will all miss Lee dearly, but draw comfort in knowing he is in a better place.
The family wishes to express sincere thanks to all friends and neighbours for their kindness and prayers during this difficult time.