Gabriola Sounder

Dave Hobbs

February 24, 1922 - November 22, 2016

Born February 24, 1922 in Victoria; died peacefully November 22, 2016 in Nanaimo.

Lovingly remembered and missed by his devoted wife of 71 years, Wendy; son Rick (Cindy), daughters Diana Mumford (Ron), Kathryn Grant (Rick, deceased) and Naida Hobbs (Steve); grandchildren Morgan Hobbs and David Mumford; and step children and grandchildren that Dad warmly welcomed into the family.

Dave lived his life to the fullest right up to the end, and was blessed with a quick and painless passing, with Kathryn at his side.

Dave enjoyed a happy childhood in Victoria, with his older sister Phyllis. He was an adventurer and a rebel from a young age. He owned a Harley Davidson motorcycle and had to coast down the road with the engine off when he was returning Wendy home at night. 

Dave enlisted and served as an aircraft mechanic in the RCAF during World War II. His time with Squadron 402 had a lasting impression on him, and he stayed in contact with many of his buddies from that time. He returned from overseas in 1945 to marry Wendy. They moved to Nanaimo shortly thereafter and built a house in Townsite. After working at General Auto Sales for several years he operated Dave’s Tideview Service in Terminal Park for twenty years, and gave many of Nanaimo’s kids their first jobs pumping gas.

Dave was an avid boater, and he and Wendy spent many years cruising the coast, loving every minute of it. Dave also fed his wanderlust with multiple trips overseas and roaming North America in various rigs. True to his adventurous spirit, Dave also enjoyed kayaking and trail biking, and bought a sports car at the age of 70.

After having built a house at Pipers Lagoon in the early days of development, Dave and Wendy decided the area had grown too busy, and they moved to Gabriola Island in 1975. They became involved with the community there, being founding members of the Silva Bay Yacht Club and the Gabriola Island Singers. Dave volunteered with the Fire Department as chief and trustee.

Eventually, when the house and details of daily life got a bit much, they made the move to Nanaimo Seniors Village, and all the kids were delighted when Dave would declare “I love it here.”

Please send any memorial donations to the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation.

Ellary Wilson

Oct. 31 1948 – Oct 1. 2016

Ellary died suddenly of heart failure at home in Nanaimo the morning of October 1. He is survived by his son, Joshua (Nanaimo), and his mother (Helen Wilson), sister and brother-in-law (Mary Wilson and Robbie Huston) on Gabriola, and his sister-in-law Faith in Calgary. 

He was Uncle Ellary to six nieces, three great-nieces and three great-nephews. Ellary was predeceased by his twin brother (at birth), by his father Walter Wilson, and by his beloved older brother Barry of Calgary.

Ellary lived with schizophrenia since his late teens. Despite his many sufferings, he was a farmer, a decent amateur mechanic and a friend to many. He loved mechanical watches, old cars, the family pets and especially his son Josh and the rest of his family. 

A funeral will be held at the Gabriola United Church, 2600 South Road, at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22. 

Interment to follow later in Fleming, Saskatchewan. 

Dr. Rodney Van Dueck (Dyck)

April 11, 1951 - Sept 7, 2016

Rodney loved his patients and was an extraordinary holistic healer. His father always said that Rodney was a servant. So true. He leaves behind his wife, Susan Holbrook, son Jordan Dyck (Ginnie) and beloved grand daughters Erynn and Isabella. His parents Harry and Frances Dyck and brother Randy Dyck (Betty) and his nieces. 

Rodney was an amazing trumpet player in his youth. However, he discovered his true calling when he embarked on a career in chiropractic. Eventually he moved into the field of holistic healing and worked as a private health consultant. His pride and joy was helping people with fertility issues as he loved children.

His wife Susan has for financial reasons moved to Calgary for a time and is planning on continuing with his business in some way. Despite her vast knowledge of health that she acquired during years of working beside Rodney, she will take a course this coming year to become a nutritional therapy practitioner. Rodney did not want a funeral so was cremated and at some time a celebration of life will be held. Anyone wanting to stay in touch can contact Susan at cchs@shaw.ca.  

If anyone would like to help Susan in her education, some very kind patients have set up a gofundme page. https://www.gofundme.com/2ehxdads

I, Susan, would like to thank the many people on Gabriola and elsewhere that have helped during this tumultuous time. 

Hard to believe that within 10 days of Rodney’s passing I have left my lovely home and many belongings behind and I am in Calgary at Rodney’s sons. 

I especially would like to thank my wonderful friends Lisa Baltich and Tim Borden. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything but particularly for being there when I had to take Rodney off life support.

Jeffrey Robert Molloy

January 16, 1957 - August 3, 2016

Jeffrey Robert Molloy was born in Toronto on January 16, 1957. 

Our beloved warrior slipped away in the early hours of August 3, 2016 after a heroic and spirited battle with cancer. He died at his home on Gabriola Island, B.C. surrounded by loved ones and his art. 

Jeff’s journey was one of love, creativity, and spunk. His family was at the centre of his world, and his grandchildren were his greatest blessing. A true rebel, his legacy lives on in our hearts, and in a body of work that will inspire and move generations of artistic explorers, reminding us to speak our truth and honour our creativity. Jeff was an award-winning multimedia artist whose work riffed on cultural history and identity—clothing, architecture, ethnicity, spirituality, politics, and social ritual. Jeff was also a mentor and inspiration for emerging artists.

Jeff is survived by his beloved life partner and wife Kathryn Anne Molloy (nee Hagerman); adoring children Jules Molloy (Chloe Straw), Gavin Molloy (Megan Eagles), and Kate Molloy (Dan Clancy); treasured grandchildren Lily, Ivy, Luca, Arlo, and Nelly; loving siblings Laurie Stewart (Molloy), JoAnn Ayotte (Molloy), and Marshall Molloy; and an entire community of friends and admirers.

The family is grateful for the extraordinary care Jeff received from his doctors on Gabriola, at the BC Cancer Clinic, the paramedics, home care nurses, and the Nanaimo BC Cancer Agency. Kathryn would especially like to honour the stalwart support and companionship of Jeff’s sister, Laurie, throughout his illness, and the loving contributions of close family, friends and the loving community of Gabriola. 

According to Jeff’s wishes, donations in his memory can be made to the Gabriola Arts Council for the Gabriola Arts & Heritage Centre building project (by mail to PO Box 387, Gabriola Island BC, V0R 1X0, or online at www.artsgabriola.ca)

Charles Edward (Ted) Reeve M.D., C.M., F.R.C.P. (C)

Born February 10, 1936 in Stettler, AB. Died August 1, 2016 in Nanaimo, BC

A graduate of Bishop’s and McGill Universities, Ted belonged to British Columbia’s first organ transplant team and directed the province’s kidney transplant programme from 1968 to 1987. His work in nephrology and transplantation led him to related research in immunology, haematology, and genetics, always centred on his patients’ quality of life. When administrative and philosophical changes moved medicine and academia away from his ideals, he looked for a new career. He and his wife Phyllis acquired Page’s Resort & Marina on Gabriola Island, where he became as dedicated to the island community as he had been to his medical practice.

Ted and Phyllis married in 1958, and raised and inspired five children: Dorothy (Jacques), Charles (Amy), Gloria (Ken), Elizabeth, and Henry (Tiffani). His beloved family also includes grandchildren Christopher, Amandine, Nicolas, Stephanie, Michelle, Lioba, and Charlie, as well as niece Helen (Bruce) and nephews Michael (Noelle), and Daniel (Kat). His sister Helen, brother Norman, and parents Charles and Dorothy predeceased him. He was blessed with numerous cherished friends.

The family thanks Dr. Francois Bosman for his sympathetic guidance through Ted’s years of living with Hepatitis C. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Gabriola Medical Clinic or the Gabriola Ambulance Society would be appreciated.

A service will be held at Gabriola United Church on Monday, August 8, 2016 at 1:30pm, followed by a brief internment ceremony at the Gabriola Community Cemetery and reception at Page’s Resort and Marina.

Randy Hayward

July 27, 1947 - June 28, 2016

Randy Hayward passed away suddenly on June 28, 2016 at the age of 68 in Edmonton, Alberta.

He is survived by his devoted wife Georgene, her children Marina and Nick, his four brothers Jamie (Kathleen), Ken (Karin), David (Jackie), and Barry. Grandchildren Nicolle and R.J. and nieces and nephews.

Over the years he loved and cherished his 10 adorable cats.

Randy grew up in Edmonton where he practiced law and was later an investor when he moved to Gabriola.

Playing little league baseball enhanced his love of all sports throughout his life.

On Gabriola he played in the softball league and was an avid golfer.

His other passions were hockey, basketball, and recently he discovered pickleball.

Drawn by Haven programs, Randy and Georgene came to Gabriola in 1986. He was happiest here on Gabriola and recently told Georgene he wanted to live here forever. He was most proud of his recent spearheading and eventual paving of Canso Road along Jody West and the support of other residents.

There will be a celebration of his life on his birthday, July 27, 2016 at the Gabriola Golf and Country Club at 2pm. All are welcome.

Patrick Morford

Patrick (Pat in the Hat) Morford, 55, died unexpectedly at home Sunday June 26th, 2016. He was pre-deceased by his parents Raymond and Nora Morford. He is survived by his partner Tammy, and all of those who loved him. Although Patrick battled for many years against diabetes and it’s many complications, he never wavered in his kindness, sense of humour, or in his desire to make the people he loved happy.

Patrick was a talented musician, extraordinary audiophile, brilliant inventor, and above all a warm and caring person.  Through his love of music, his natural curiosity, and genuine interest in people, Patrick gathered a large and diverse circle of friends whom he cherished.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Gabriola Golf and Country Club, Monday July 11, 2016 starting at 6:00 p.m. 

To honour Pat’s wishes, after spoken words, this event will be a musical jam, with all of us who loved him coming together to make a joyful noise. 

June Lewis-Harrison

June 7, 1936 - May 4, 2016

Our beloved Mum, June Lewis-Harrison, died in Nanaimo General Hospital May 4th, 2016. She had had an unexpected and difficult surgery two days prior, and was unable to recover. She passed away with her daughter and son by her side.

June was born Hafina Lewis on June 7^th 1936, in Ffostrasul Wales, and was raised by her grandmother, Sarah Lewis. She left her village of Ffostrasul in 1955 and moved to London, England where she worked for the British Drama League. A few years later, she moved to Canada on a ship bound for Montreal. Driving to Victoria BC, where she worked for Family and Children’s Services. In 1961 she met our father, Tom Harrison, and started coming to Gabriola with him to stay in his little cabin on Taylor Bay. Eventually they built a home on the land, had two children, and shared 21 years together.

June had a wonderful life on Gabriola and truly loved her community. In 1972 she started Gabriola’s first community newspaper, The Flying Shingle, which was in circulation for over 35 years. In 1982 she published her book, “The People of Gabriola: a History of Our Pioneers.” 

CBC Radio and the sounds of a typewriter were the soundtrack to our childhood. June served on the Nanaimo School Board for 23 years and was the longest serving member in its history. She had a wicked sense of humour and loved children, politics, social justice, fighting for the underdog, and was a force to be reckoned with! She touched many people’s lives and will be missed by many.

June is survived by her two children: Ian and Sammy Harrison, her three sisters: Gwyneth Thomas, Ann Selwood, Eirwen Jones, and her five nieces and nephews: Elizabeth, Heather, Jeff, Gerwyn, and Llyr.  

She had a wicked sense of humour! Mum taught me everything I know about being a strong independent woman, standing up for what’s right, and not giving a s#@t what others think about that. She touched many people’s lives and I will miss her forever.

Blaine Chester Borley

April 19, 1946 - May 6, 2016

In Loving Memory

1946 - 2016

Blaine Chester Borley, age 70, of Gabriola Island, passed away peacefully after a courageous and valiant battle with cancer, on May 6th, 2016, in the Palliative Care Unit at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The eldest of two children, Blaine was born April 19th, 1946 in Toronto, Ontario to Chet and Florence Borley.

When Blaine was six years old his family moved to Flin Flon, MB where his father went to work for the Hudson Bay Mining & Smelting Company. Flin Flon was a great place for the adventurist in Blaine. He spent many happy hours with his friends exploring the woods and waterways around Flin Flon.  He and several of those friends acquired an old cabin located at Little Cliff Lake and together they spent many happy hours fixing it up. This became their hide-away on weekends as they fished, hiked and hunted prairie chickens.

Blaine was not the studious type and left school early. Around 1966-67 he went to work and his first job was in the mine as a mucker initially and then as a train operator (bull dozer). After a couple of years of mining he grew tired of the cold winters and packed up his things and moved to Saskatoon where he completed his apprenticeship in auto mechanics that he had started in Flin Flon.

1972 he moved to Calgary where he worked for Taylor Pearson & Carson briefly as an automotive mechanic before starting with Greyhound Canada in April, 1973 as a machinist mechanic. While at Greyhound an old time machinist took Blaine under his wing and taught him all he knew about machining tools and how to build the parts that kept the buses running down the highway. In time he stepped into his mentor’s shoes and became the foreman of the rebuild shop, teaching and supervising his crew. 

In 1985 Blaine met Wanda who became his soul mate and partner in life. Together they spent many happy times cycling, travelling in his old repurposed school bus, ballroom dancing, sailing, riding motorcycles, kayaking and the list goes on. They bought their first sailboat in 1988.  Armed with cruise and learn certificates and coastal navigation they started exploring the west coast waters. It was while they were exploring these waters that they discovered Gabriola Island and decided to make their retirement home there.  Several years of returning to Gabriola on their annual sailing trips would pass before they finally found the home they wanted in 2001.

Blaine retired from Greyhound Canada in April, 2003 after 30 years of service.  Their Gabriola home was waiting and Blaine set about setting up a shop in his garage and, what he loved about his job with Greyhound, machining, became his hobby in retirement. It didn’t take long before he had established himself as the go-to person for most things that required machining on the island. 

Motorcycles were another passion in Blaine’s early life.  As a young man he built and/or restored some vintage machines but family and other priorities dictated and he had to put his motorcycle passion on hold.  In 1998 he returned to motorcycling and he and Wanda logged many miles touring Alberta, BC, the US west coast down as far as Bakersfield, CA and as far north as Yellowknife in Canada. 

Blaine is survived, and will be sorely missed by Wanda, his wife and partner of 30 years, his brother Curtis Borley (Wanda) of Winnipeg, two daughters, Anita Banks (Phil) of Calgary and Jennifer Shoop (Derrick) of New Brunswick, a son, David Gutierrez of Calgary, four grandchildren, Ethan, William, Cameron and Serenity, two step sons, David Pirker (Kendra) of Saskatoon and Gary Pirker (Karen) of Yellowknife, two nephews, Dion Borley (Rose) of Winnipeg and Darren Borley (Cassidy) of Regina, great nephews & nieces and numerous cousins, uncles and aunts and step grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his parents, aunts, uncles and cousins.

A celebration of life will be held in Blaine’s honour on Friday, May 27th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Roxy Theatre in Twin Beaches Mall, Gabriola, BC. 

Memorial Donations in lieu of flowers can be made in Blaine’s name to The Gabriola Lands and Trails Trust (GaLLT) and/or to the Palliative Care Unit at the Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. 

Paul Hudson Phinney

Oct. 22, 1968 - Mar. 28, 2016

Paul Hudson Phinney, 47, died Monday, March 28, after a long struggle with mental illness and depression. He is survived by his loving parents, Carole and Peter Phinney on Gabriola; his sister and brother-in-law Christiana and Ryan Jones; and his nephews Logan and Hudson; nieces Eva and Autumn (in Cleveland, Ohio); his Aunt Barbara Tarris (Jeff) on South Pender Island; Aunt Vee Innes on Salt Spring Island; and Uncle Larry Phinney (LaVerne) in Stony Plain, Alberta.

Paul was born October 22, 1968 in Vancouver BC. He attended Lonsdale and Brooksbank Elementary Schools and Sutherland Secondary School in North Vancouver. He graduated from BCIT as a certified plumber and gas fitter at the age of 22. He devoted many years as a plumber in the Vancouver area and on Gabriola Island. He was an avid scuba diver and travelled to Mexico to dive in the caves. He loved music, movies, photography, and animals.

He was often seen walking his dog Marley (named after Bob Marley) in the Village.

Most importantly, he was a kind-hearted and generous man. Thank you all who helped Paul through his difficult days.

Thank you also to RCMP Cpl. Markus Müntener, the first responders, Dr. Francois Bosman, and the ambulance crew who attended to Paul.

Please honour Paul and continue discussing mentalillness to bring it out of the shadows so that, perhaps, one day future individuals and families do not experience the same heartache.

If you are able, consider donating to the Canadian Mental Health Association (BC Division at www.cmha.bc.ca)

Above all, if you ever feel like your only option is to harm yourself, please speak with a loved one or call a suicide hotline. (Vancouver Island Crisis Society 1-888-494-3888)

Because you are precious and loved just the way you are. Just like Paul was.

And that is how we will remember him.

A Celebration of Life will be held this coming Saturday, April 30 at 1pm at the Fellowship Church on Church Street.