Peacefully and surrounded by his loving family, Noel Baltar, of Coquitlam, passed away at the age of sixty. Born in President Roxas, Noel was a devoted father, husband, and friend who touched the lives of everyone he met with his intelligence, love, and unwavering dedication.

Noel excelled in everything he pursued, from his academic achievements to his professional career, always striving to be the best. A chess prodigy, he was known for his quick wit and strategic mind; At an early age he often defeated players significantly older than him. Beyond his talents, Noel was a loving and emotional man who valued family above all else. He was a man of many passions, including his passion for eighties music – often serenading his family early on Saturday mornings with his favourite hits, singing every song with the same joy and energy he brought to life.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Annie, and his two sons, Josh, and Shawn, along with countless friends and family members who will forever cherish his memory. Prayer Vigil at 6:30 pm on Wednesday, September 18, 2024, at St. Clare of Assisi Parish, 2888 Delahaye Drive, Coquitlam. Funeral Mass is also at St. Clare’s, on Friday, September 20 at 12:00 noon.

Noel’s legacy of love, hard work, and knowledge will continue to inspire us all.

A truly unique and extraordinary individual made his final transition on July 28th, 2024, succumbing to lung cancer and kidney failure. He was born in 1950 in Dornburg, Germany and in January of 1956, he and his family travelled to Canada to find their new home in Regina, Saskatchewan. In 1983, he moved to Edmonton, Alberta, and in 1985, found his final home in Coquitlam/Port Moody, B.C. Rolf studied structural steel and drafting at STI graduating in 1973. He worked with Great West Steel, GWS, and retired from Candraft Detailing. Throughout his career, he contributed to many notable projects including the Royal Tyrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta, and the eastern span replacement of the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. He appreciated art and music, a lover of adventure and pumpkin patches, and had a deep fondness of dogs and horses. He was authentically himself never wavering from his opinions or beliefs and leaving a lasting impression on all who knew him. A beloved husband, father, grandfather (Papa), brother and friend. Survived by his wife Debra (married April 11th, 1975), daughters Amanda (Marc), Karla (Merritt), son Lucas, sister Elizabeth and grandchildren Orion, Calvin, Kalin, Luna, and Jayse.

Glen passed away in Port Moody, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born in Kingston and raised in Belleville, Ontario by loving parents Lucy and Joseph Bennett. Shortly after marrying the love of his life Maura, they decided to move to B.C. and raise a family.

Glen was a kind, respectful and gentle soul. He loved meeting new people. This served him well in all of his career endeavors. He was an honest salesperson and an excellent photographer. He even taught photography in Coquitlam and Vancouver for over 30 years. Back when he was selling electronics, he would help people above and beyond his job description and would occasionally go to customers’ homes to assist with equipment set-up, after his shift was over. The well-being of his family was his number one priority. Over the years, he enjoyed baseball, darts, tennis, guitar, cycling, nature photography and camping with his family. He coached his sons in Little League and then played Slow Pitch with a team well into his 80’s.

Glen is survived by his loving wife of 53 years, Maura, his beautiful  children Caroline (Marc), Paul (Theresa), and Roger, as well as  two amazing grandchildren Skylar and Trevor, who he was so proud of. He also leaves behind his five adoring nieces and many extended family members. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kidsport, so all kids can play.

Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, August 9, 2024, at 1:00 pm at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Parish, 140 Moody St. Port Moody.

Jacqueline “Jackie” Elizabeth Vink (née Booth) lived her life with kindness toward everyone she met. She had an infectious laugh that she was quick to share, bringing joy to her family and friends and connecting her with the love of her life, Timo Vink.

Born in Canberra, Australia in March of 1992, Jackie thought about the world in beautifully different ways, which opened those around her to new perspectives. She noticed and valued beauty around her and was able to appreciate and create art through her writing, drawing, and painting. An avid reader, world traveler and English literature major from the University of Toronto, Jackie always sought to broaden her perspective and led with compassion toward everyone she encountered. When she gave someone her undivided attention, she made them feel respected, heard, and special.

Jackie felt most at home in Ithaca, NY, where she grew up from 2004, surrounded by her siblings and parents. She enjoyed hiking, swimming, skiing, biking, and exploring the natural beauty Ithaca offered. She spent many nights by the fire with her family and friends, making music and telling stories.

After earning her degree, Jackie completed her Montessori training before beginning her first career as a Montessori teacher in Vancouver, where she worked for six years. Her sweet nature, gentle approach, and creativity impacted numerous children, fellow teachers, and colleagues.

Gloria passed away peacefully in March 2024. She was a wife, sister, mother, grandmother and best friend. Her life was vibrant and full, predeceased by Len, her loving husband of 52 years. Survived by her children daughter Leanne, sons, Steven (Susan), Robert (Carolin), grandchildren Matthew (Cassidy), Danielle (Brendan) and her best friend, her beloved kitty Delilah.

Born in Vancouver to Jack and Winnie Drever, Gloria had many great memories with her sister Lila growing up on Broadway Street. After enjoying their school years together, Gloria went on to work at Eaton’s in the admin department. It was while working at Eaton’s that she found her love for bowling and some lifelong friends.

In 1956 Gloria met Len, the love of her life; they had many things in common and made great friends together before tying the knot in April 1957. Beginning their life’s journey together, they headed to San Francisco for their honeymoon before starting their family.

Throughout the years, Gloria had a passion for bowling with Len and the Eaton’s team. She also enjoyed spending time at the composite Lodge #76, Job’s daughters, soccer and was known to enjoy a good game of cards from time to time. Her love of old movies, as well as a good horror flick, brought us to theaters for many little adventures we treasured together.

Moving to Coquitlam in 1975 started a new chapter. Being a devoted wife and mother, Gloria started working at Brookmere Elementary as an EA and grounds supervisor. She had a knack for gaining the trust of many children for the 8 years she worked for the district. She left a heartwarming legacy of security and compassion in the hearts of all the children she made relationships with.

Gloria’s love of animals cannot be forgotten; having our beloved dog Dixie and many wonderful kitties throughout the years completed our house and made it our home. Moms’ cat, Delilah, was her latest companion for the last 8 years and gave her all the love a girl could ask for.

Gloria’s love of life came from being surrounded by her loving family and the many new friends she made at Maple Ridge Seniors Village. For the last 8 years, her infectious smile and positive attitude for life brought joy to all those around her. Mom, we love you and miss you every day, thank you for giving us all the memories to cherish.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Katie’s Place animal shelter in Maple Ridge.

Our gentle giant died peacefully in the ICU of Surrey Memorial Hospital while holding his wife Yujin’s hand.

Richard was born in St. Paul’s Hospital in the same room as where his older sister Jennifer was born. He was a very happy, full of life boy who loved to play video games and build Lego with his friends. Richie’s childhood was spent in Abbotsford and Langley, then he moved to Vancouver as an independent young adult. He boldly decided to travel to Korea in the early 2000s to start a career as an English teacher, he was in his mid 20’s. After gaining teaching experience, he pursued his work as a corporate trainer to major conglomerates in Korea with much enthusiasm.

He met Yujin in 2006 and fell madly in love, they were married in 2011. Richard was adventurous and endlessly talkative, to anyone, anywhere. He would strike up a conversation with random people. Richard was always surrounded by many friends sharing his funny jokes and charisma. He was an outdoors enthusiast who loved camping, mountain biking and just walking around in nature.

After moving back to Vancouver in December 2018 to start a new career in the movie industry, it was then in September 2019 when Richard became a Father, a devoted Dad to beautiful twins, Ava, and Kayden. Richard was an excellent dad who found joy in his small family. He loved each of them so dearly and enjoyed bringing them to different parks every week. Richard was in his element when he was doing outdoor activities with his children and cherished every single moment he spent with them. Richard’s love for Yujin was a constant, he was the bravest, strongest husband, and her love brought him his greatest comfort.

Predeceased by father Larry,  grandparents Suzanne and Robert Anderson, Jean and Tony Skrukwa, aunt  Karen and uncle Norm, and father-in-law Dukwang.

As those who loved him rallied by his bedside saw, the two-month battle was unforgiving. Richard is survived by his beloved wife Yujin and their cherished twins Ava and Kayden, parents Lorine and Jeff,  sister Jennifer (Jason), uncle Kelly, uncle Jack and aunt Beryl, cousins Matthew (Karly), Paxton (Tanya) second cousins Huxley & Renlen, mother-in-law Seungja, grandma-in-law Jongsun, sister-in-law Yuseun (Jay) and nieces and nephews Diamond, Hunter, Dain and Jiho, best friends Jeremy (Thamy) and many friends & extended family in Canada, Korea and beyond. Richard was a man who looked out for people. May his legacy be one of kindness.

Rest in peace Richard.

Memorial to honour Richard’s life will be on Saturday, April 6 at 2:00 pm at Murrayville Hall, 21667 48 Ave, Langley. Doors open at 1:15 pm. For those of you who are unable to make it in person, the ceremony will be streamed.

Zoom link for Richard’s Event

William James Young, affectionately known as Jim, peacefully passed away at his home on February 21, 2024, at the age of seventy-five. Born in McLellan, Alberta, Jim’s journey led him to touch countless lives, leaving an indelible mark wherever he went. He was beloved in his many roles of husband, brother, uncle, father, and ‘Papa.’

Jim was the beloved third sibling among seven, including five sisters and one younger brother. In his youth, Jim married his childhood sweetheart, Anna Novielli, in North Vancouver. Their loving union spanned an impressive fifty-six years. They were partners in everything in life from parenting, hobbies, vacationing, renovating, to every business they owned. He also became a cherished brother to Anna’s four sisters. He embraced his role as a brother and uncle, showering his extended family with love, guidance, and support.

Together, they were blessed with two children, Aaron, and Ginette, who brought immeasurable joy into their lives. Their family grew with the addition of Suzanne, Kelly and three grandsons: Trey, James, and Zandar, each a testament to the love and dedication Jim poured into his family.

In 1990, Jim and Anna embarked on a new chapter, moving their family to Vancouver Island to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. From managing The Galley & Marina on Shawnigan Lake, or opening a Marine Store in Maple Bay, to his tenure as a respected Boat Broker, Jim’s career was characterized by integrity, hard work, and a genuine love for his craft.

Jim and Anna relocated to Courtenay to be closer to Ginette and her family. Jim cherished every moment spent with his family. In these last years, he truly found his inner silly child while spending time with his grandson James. His only bucket list request was spending more time with family.

Throughout his life, Jim’s hands were never idle. A skilled carpenter and boat builder, he applied his talents not only in his professional endeavors, but also in enriching the lives of those around him. Whether it was renovating homes or crafting intricate pieces in his woodworking shop, Jim’s craftsmanship was unmatched, a true reflection of his passion and dedication. Of course, every project was done with Anna by his side matching is work ethic and craftsmanship. His most recent expression of wood artistry came in the form of intricate and beautiful cutting boards and turning magnificent bowls. These now adorn the kitchens of many families and friends.

Jim’s magnetic personality endeared him to all who crossed his path. A natural conversationalist and avid listener, he possessed an insatiable curiosity and a knack for solving problems. Jim’s willingness to lend a helping hand and his boundless generosity touched the lives of many, leaving an enduring legacy of kindness and compassion. With these innate qualities, he naturally became a father figure to dozens of his children’s friends, and remained so until his passing. This included his Goddaughter, Martina, whom he lovingly embraced as his own after the passing of her father, Jim’s best friend, Mark.

Giving back was a large part of Jim’s life. He dedicated countless hours volunteering over the years to organizations like Knights of Columbus (Lifetime Honourary Membership- 35 years), coaching soccer, Salvation Army, Big Brothers, Kinsmen, and Rotary Club. Jim found solace on the open waters of the Salish Sea, while open-air driving in his motorhome with Anna, and alongside a river casting his line for a bite. Above all, Jim found his greatest joy in his family.

Jim’s legacy extends far beyond his accomplishments. His selflessness, work ethic, and unwavering love for his family serve as an inspiration to all who knew him. Though he may have left this world, his warm smile, infectious laugh, and boundless spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, please plant a tree

(https://shop.alivingtribute.org/products/plant-a-tree-canada)

or give to the Salvation Army (https://salvationarmy.ca/donations/) in Jim’s memory.

Private family memorial in March. Inclusive Celebration of Life to honour Jim in the spring. Check back for details when we have updates.

Laurie was born to Elma and Jack Fitzpatrick in Langley, B.C. With siblings named Morley, Marvyn, and Marlene, “her parents couldn’t pick another ‘M’ name”, is what she used to say. Everyone knows the story about Kathleen for her middle name. When the family moved to Cache Creek, Laurie made friends and liked to hear the “drive-in theatre” from her house.

With family in Ashcroft, there were always family and friends close by. Laurie endured many trips to Saskatchewan and decided that she would not become a farmer. She was not a fan of the stormy weather, loose pigs, well water and we wouldn’t dare mention an outhouse to her.

Moving to Kimberly was wonderful for Laurie as she made new friends, and kept in touch with old friends, as she was an avid letter writer. She also loved to read. She had fond memories of snowy days when everyone would drive up to the school and have a blast tobogganing in the snow. Elma enjoyed driving around town in her Chevy Vega and everyone would wave to her as they passed by.

As a young woman, Laurie moved to Victoria and became a BC Tel operator, where she was asked how to cook a turkey and other wild questions. Laurie made friends everywhere she went. Later on, she moved to Burnaby, transferring jobs with Telus. She never lost her typing skills of ninety words per minute.

Laurie met John through friends and in the early stages they would talk for HOURS on the phone, getting to know each other. Eventually their relationship progressed, and Laurie moved in with John and was introduced to wild meat, while hunting and camping in Prince George. After living together for a while Laurie was wondering if John was ever going to propose. He did shortly after, and they were married in 1997. During that special time in their life, Terry and Jake Bergen were their landlords and became close friends. They really stepped up and were gracious hosts to Laurie’s parents among other things.

Laurie always made an effort to stay connected to friends, taking many ferry trips back to Victoria to visit her dear friend Lisa Clark.

In 1999, they were blessed with a beautiful son. Sean was the most wonderful gift, with both Laurie and John on cloud nine with the love of their baby boy. Laurie and Sean would look into each others’ eyes and that bond became unbreakable.

Laurie and John bought their family home and spent twenty-four more happy years together.

They lovingly called their family “We be Monkley 3”. They also welcomed a few cats to snuggle with, over the years.

Laurie was predeceased by her parents Elma and Jack and sister-in-law Connie.

She is survived by her loving husband John, son Sean, siblings Morley (Debbie), Marvyn, Marlene (Rob), and many nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

In the end, Sean and John were there for Laurie, caring for her through all the doctor and hospital visits. It is hard to say goodbye after so many years, the memories, the love, and then left with sadness. Laurie will be remembered in our hearts.

From John:

Our dear Laurie. We start our life so small, and we grow with the love of our family and friends. We grow and navigate the ups and downs and twisty turns of life. Our love grows and a child is probably the most love we can ever have. We navigate that love the best we can. In the end, we know that we have loved and were loved. Laurie, we will miss you forever.

With all my love,

John

From Sean:

How do I put into words all that you did for me. A mother’s love is the best way to describe how you cared for me. I’ll never forget the feeling of being hugged by you. You live on through me. I love you mom.

Your loving son,

Sean

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Coquitlam Animal Shelter. Donations may be made via phone 604.927.7387 or via on-line (Link to SPCA). Please click the “In Memory of” box and fill in Laurie’s name and use the email address, RSVP@ANORAlife.com, so that John will be notified.

The funniest, sweetest person we ever knew left our family quickly and quietly after valiantly battling cancer. Our hearts are shattered.

Dad spent his young years in Antigonish NS before adventuring west to Vancouver where he met our sweet mum Valerie and then settled in Langley to raise their family.

Left behind are daughters Kelly and Kirsten (Pitr), nephew Glen (Ness) and his prides and joy: Maisie, Indie, Max, Lainey, Kierney and Lorraine. Dad is survived by siblings Jerome and Mary Cameron.

Dad did many jobs in his life but settled with FRPD for the majority of his career and retired in 2000 to become baby Maisie’s nanny and they shared so much love.

We will always remember our darling father as the strongest, sweetest, person who would make us scream laugh, he was unassuming but as soon as he started to talk, everyone was howling with laughter.

Mum and dad had and cherished so many friends and family, some of whom have left this earth. We know our mother was waiting for our dad with open arms and as soon as he had caught up with everyone (he was very social), he hit the green for his first round of painless golf since cancer had ravaged him.

Kirsten and I can’t express the depth of loss of our parents, but we would like to thank them for everything they ever did for us, for the lessons, for the love, the support and always the hard work.  As a family, we will now navigate our new normal, but we do it gratefully with so many lovely memories.

Thank you to Dr. Jenny Ko and the selfless hospice team in Mission, specifically to nurses Thami and Lucky who took care of our sweet dad and our hearts as we let him go.  A memorial will follow in the Spring as it was mum and dads favourite time of year. To our dad, we would like to say:  rest now, we will love you for eternity.

Susan was born in the “Forest of Dean” Gloucestershire in 1947 to Kate and Alexander Davis. At the age of fourteen, she met Christopher Simmonds and they married when she was nineteen years old. In 1968, she and Christopher emigrated to Canada with nothing more than a few suitcases and started their new life. Persistence, tenacity and being kindhearted helped Sue and Chris find work and find a home in Port Moody, then New Westminster. Sue worked at Cascades Electronics, assembling telephone circuit boards for B.C. Tel. Eventually their hard work paid off, and they bought their first house in Surrey, B.C. They welcomed daughters Katie in 1971 and Sian in 1973. In 1976 they purchased five acres in Langley and eventually built a house that Sue and Chris put their hearts into. That house was more than a building; It was a loving home that they created together. Sue had a great eye for interior design and put those talents to work reupholstering and refinishing furniture and decorating their home beautifully. But most importantly, they filled it with love.

Sue was a devoted mom who adored her girls and made them feel loved, safe, and secure. Not only did she care deeply for her daughters, but her whole family. Family and faith were paramount. Every Sunday was spent at St. Oswald’s singing in the choir and then a homecooked Sunday dinner lovingly prepared by Sue.

When her family got a little older, she started to work outside of the home. She tended bar at the “Rose and Thistle” and then later for the B.C. Liquor Board. Any colleague would tell you that Sue had a very strong work ethic and excelled in anything that she was committed to.

In the 90’s they bought an ocean view property that they used for recreation for years on Saltspring Island. It eventually became their full-time home in her retirement years. Sue was in her happy place when she was hiking the mountain trails at Saltspring.

Another one of the joys in Sue’s life was her flower garden. She took great pleasure in working her garden and enjoying the fruits of her labour. In her later years, she even cultivated a small garden outside the pharmacy on North Bluff and tended to it daily. This was not physically easy for Sue as she could only work with one arm due to her left arm partial paralysis. But she persevered.

Sue enjoyed arts and crafts, especially sewing and dressmaking for her girls when they were young. Most memorable of her projects were the large Santas that she made for all the extended family members and collages with family photos.

Sue died on November 29^th, 2023, at the age of seventy-six, surrounded by the people who love her.

She is predeceased by parents Alex and Kate, sisters Barbara, Shirley, Rita, and younger sister Sian. Sadly, she lost her youngest daughter Sian in 1993, a loss she never got over.

Sue is survived by husband Christopher, daughter Katie (Dean) de Sousa, grandchildren Hailey, Nicholas and Jacob de Sousa, sisters Patricia Van Benten and Caroline (Ronnie) Price and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the B.C. Children’s Hospital Foundation. https://www.bcchf.ca/ways-to-give/