March 30, 1919 - September 13, 2022
In loving memory ~
The time has come for the family of Bertha Levesque to announce the sad but inevitable news of her passing. She is survived by daughters, Shirley McGowan, Louise (Olie) Swanky, and Joyce (Fred) Luecke; one granddaughter, 2 grandsons, 5 great grandsons, and a great granddaughter; as well as numerous nieces and nephews and extended family members. She was predeceased by her son, Gerald in 1979 and her husband, George in 1998.
Mom was born in Bodmin, Saskatchewan at the Doucette Family's homestead. She was the 7th of 12 children. Bertha spoke only French until she started school in a one-room school house and then learned English. She spoke and wrote n both languages for the remainder of her life.
When just a young child, she contracted polio. Even at that age she was determined to be independent and overcome any obstacles she faced. She carried that spirit with her always.
Mom and dad were married in 1936. In 1944, she brought the four of us on the train to New Westminster where Dad met us and took us to our new home in Port Alberni. Mom always loved Port Alberni and was happy to live here for the rest of her life. Her family, extended family, and all her many friends were all very dear to her.
Our parents had several nice trips which they enjoyed but were always happiest when they were canoeing, fishing, and camping. Mom also enjoyed 5- pin bowling. Later, she joined the Sunshine Club where she learned to carpet bowl. She became one of the best bowlers in the club and was always keen to teach beginners how to bowl.
She was also a member of the Old Age Pensioners Association and served several terms as President. It was there that she was able to assist Terry Whye in starting Abbeyfield where she herself resided for several years before going into Fir Park Village which was another home she enjoyed very much.
Her life ended after a few days in palliative care. Mom had a good long healthy life and we consider ourselves to fortunate to have had her in our lives for so long.
We wish to thank Dr Nell for taking such good care of our mother for so many years; to all the staff in Fir Park Village and Abbeyfield for their care and compassion, as well as all the people who enjoyed our cheeky mother and her sense of humour. You all made her feel like the very special woman that she was.
We ask those wishing to honour our mother do so by making a donation in her memory to the SPCA, any wildlife organization, Fir Park Village, Abbeyfield, or a charity of your choosing.
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesmemorial.ca
YATES MEMORIAL SERVICES 250-723-5859 "Lives Cherished and Celebrated"