It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Ryszard Lech Podolski, who left this world too early on February 12, 2025 at age 70.

Richard was a social butterfly and loved to dance. He was a master craftsman and perfectionist in all projects he tackled. With his unique laugh and prankster personality he made some quality friendships with his colleagues at work and abroad. Rejoining the church later in life brought him many amazing experiences and closer to God which he cherished. He is survived by his four children, Monika, Kasia, Patrick (Sabrina), Jonathan (Tasia) and their mother, Grazyna Podolski,  his six grandchildren Madison, Noah, Caitlyn, Ethan, Logan and Aiden, brother Kazimierz and extended family in Canada and Poland.

“You ain’t nothin’ but a hound dog.”

Tatuś, we miss you and love you and wish we had more time.

Until we meet again, may you rest your soul in paradise. Amen.

Giglia will be missed by all who knew her.

She wrote this paragraph about herself in one of her notebooks:
”I was born in Caracas-Venezuela, at the end of the romantic 30s.
I like to travel a lot, and I have been lucky to know many countries and cities. Another thing I like a lot is listening to music. My favourite music is Argentinian, Mexican and Spanish.
Romantic music is my favourite, and to relax I prefer classical music.
While listening to the songs, I often sing them, which I enjoy very much. I also like to paint and do handicrafts”.

Giglia was a woman of strong will and unwavering determination.
She will set ambitious goals—many of them difficult to achieve—but she never gave up.
No matter the challenge, she gave her all, always persevering with grace and strength.
Her heart was as strong as was her spirit, and she dedicated her life to caring for her family and friends, forming deep and lasting bonds throughout her long journey.

Her faith in God and unyielding resilience helped her overcome the many obstacles that life placed in her path, yet she never allowed hardship to dim her joy. She embraced life fully, always finding beauty in the moments she was given.

In her final days, life may have taken someone very precious from her, but in return, it granted her countless blessings and joy until the last day.

Canada became her second home, welcoming her with open arms—a kindness for which she was forever grateful. In her notebook, she kept a quote that reflected her wisdom and perspective:
“Life doesn’t take things from you; it frees you from them so you can fly higher.”

And now, dear Giglia, it is your time to fly.
Many loved ones await you beyond this life, and one day, we will be reunited. Reyna Bella (our beautiful Queen), your presence will live on in the hearts of those who cherish you.

Your butterflies will continue to fly to many places, guiding you on your final journey.

Your daughter, who is still on this Earth, your son who is with you in heaven, and your beautiful new son, who gave you a new life until your last living day, will hold you in our hearts and spirits forever.

Your grandson, great-grandson, son-in-law, brothers, sisters, and dearest friends will forever keep your memory alive.

Beloved Gigi, you are loved beyond measure – always and forever.

__

Todos los que la conocieron la extrañaran.
Escribió este párrafo sobre sí misma en uno de sus cuadernos:

‘’Nací en Caracas-Venezuela, al final de los románticos años 30 . Me gusta mucho viajar y he tenido la fortuna de conocer muchos países y ciudades, otra cosa que disfruto mucho es oír música, mi música favorita es la argentina, mexicana y española. La música romántica es mi preferida y para relajarme prefiero la música clásica. Muchas veces mientras oigo las canciones la canto, cosa que disfruto mucho. Otra cosa, me gusta pintar y hacer manualidades’’

Giglia fue una mujer de una voluntad de hierro, que logró muchas metas y muchas de estas muy difíciles de alcanzar, pero no desfallecía en su intento, ponía todo su esfuerzo, no importaba lo difícil que fuese ella lo intentaba. Siempre estaba pendiente de su familia y amigos, logró cultivar muchos amigos durante su larga vida.

Su fortaleza y fe en Dios la ayudaron a superar muchos obstáculos que le puso la vida, pero logró vivir con plenitud.

Al final de su vida, esta le quitó un bien muy preciado y pero le dio muchas otras cosas. Canadá fue su segunda patria y le abrió los brazos, y lo agradeció mucho.

Tenía una cita anotada en su cuaderno. ‘’La vida no te quita cosas, te libera de cosas para que vueles mas alto’’

Giglia vuela alto, te estaban esperando muchos seres queridos, pronto o tarde estaremos compartiendo contigo Reyna bella. Tus mariposas seguirán llegando a muchos sitios y te acompañarán a tu último destino

Tu hija desde la tierra, tu hijo desde el cielo, tu hermoso nuevo hijo que te dio la vida, tu nieto, tu bisnieto, tu yerno , tus hermanas y hermanos, tus amigos siempre te recordaremos. Por siempre y para siempre Gigi amada

James Douglas Siddall, 71, passed away on January 13, 2025. Jay was born and raised in Trail, B.C., and lived for many years in Vancouver, Coquitlam & Pitt Meadows. He was a life-long artist, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter, especially enjoying playing his saxophone in recent years. Jay also enjoyed tie-dying and painting, producing and donating over two-hundred tie-dye t-shirts for his friends, family & local community.

Jay was predeceased by his parents Dorothy and Bill, and his sister Shirley. He is survived and missed dearly by his loving wife Cathy, his sister and brother Patty and Robin, his only daughter Jayne, her partner Alan, and his two grandchildren Lachlan and Sinead.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations in kind be made to the Parkinson Society of British Columbia.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rene Gauthier, a beloved father, grandfather, and friend, who left us peacefully. Rene lived a remarkable life filled with integrity, kindness, and joy. Born into a military family, he moved across Canada during his childhood, eventually settling in British Columbia in 1967.

Rene’s journey began as a young paperboy for the Toronto Star, which sparked his adventurous spirit. After relocating to B.C., he and his father opened a gas station, Rene’s Shell Service. Shortly after, he was introduced to Sun Life of Canada where he spent 38 successful years, acquiring a passion for traveling that enriched his life and that of his family, who often accompanied him on his journeys.

Upon his retirement, Rene continued to embrace life with enthusiasm. He loved spending his time on a friend’s orchard and winery and also delivered RVs for over 15 years. His caring, compassionate nature and cheeky sense of humour endeared him to many, earning him the admiration of friends who frequently described him as the nicest man they ever met.

Rene cherished his family deeply, always ready to lend a helping hand. His love for his children and grandchildren was boundless. When he was a young man, he enjoyed being active with sports, loved snow skiing, baseball, water skiing. Once he retired, he found joy in every moment spent outdoors with his passion for fishing, camping, or biking. He was an enthusiastic fan of the Vancouver Canucks, Toronto Blue Jays, and B.C. Lions, proudly supporting his teams.

Regardless of the many places he called home, Rene found peace and happiness in the beautiful Okanagan after retiring. He shared many wonderful years as a snowbird, creating lasting memories with new friends and loved ones.

Rene Gauthier leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering support. He will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to know him. In our hearts, he will remain forever, guiding us with his kindness and spirit.

Rene was pre-deceased by his parents Kathleen and Rene Gauthier.

He is survived by his sister, Lynne Mullen; his first wife, Joy Cameron; three children: Robert (Adam), Terry (Tony), and Tammy (Kevin); his second wife, Suzanne Gauthier; stepdaughter, Michelle (Drew); and several grandchildren: Andrew (Christine), Greg (Julina), Paul, Justin (Jocelyn), Cody (Hailey), Anthony (Brittney), Madison (Brendan), Mathew (Devan), Savanna (Marc), and Regan (Corey). He is also survived by great-granddaughters, Nora and Quinn, as well as many incredible friends.

A celebration of Rene’s life will be held on Saturday, December 7^th, 2024, at 10:30am, Como Lake United Church, 535 Marmont St, Coquitlam. All who knew him are invited to come together and honour his memory.

To honour Rene, you are welcome to wear clothing from one of his favourite sports teams: Vancouver Canucks, B.C. Lions, or Toronto Blue Jays. You can also wear plaid to honour Rene’s love of a good plaid shirt.

For those who are unable to be present in person, you may join us virtually at https://bit.ly/comolake9

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the B.C. Cancer Foundation. https://bit.ly/bccancer

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Chrissann Gauci. Born Christina Ann MacDonald in 1946 in Glasgow, Scotland, Chrissann passed away peacefully at Crossroads Hospice in Port Moody with her family by her side.

Chrissann was a beloved wife, mother, granny, sister and aunt. She leaves behind husband Charles Gauci, daughter Joanne Gauci (Michael Braun), grandchildren Lola and Callum – in Canada – and sister Catherine Burgess (Ian Burgess), and brother David MacDonald in Stornoway, Scotland, as well as many nieces and nephews who were dear to her.

Chrissann was predeceased by her parents Catherine and Murdo MacDonald, sister Jean (Jane) Maciver, brothers Hector, Peter and Donald, precious aunts and uncles, maternal grandparents D.K. MacDonald from Ballantrushal and Christina Ann Maclean from Doune Carloway, and paternal grandparents Alexander MacDonald and Catherine MacDonald (née Maclennan) from Tolsta Chaolais.

Chrissann was raised in Knightswood, Glasgow, but she had the fondest memories of summers spent in Tolsta Chaolais and Doune Carloway on the Isle of Lewis, Scotland. Chrissann graduated from Woodside Academy and shortly after traveled to Canada where she met Charles in Toronto. After getting married, Charles and Chrissann eventually moved west to Vancouver and raised their daughter in Coquitlam, BC.

Her love for her grandkids, her homeland, and her cherished family in Scotland is what brought Chrissann the most joy in her life. She will forever be remembered as a doting and loving granny to Callum and Lola, and her ashes will be laid to rest beside her mother in Scotland. A memorial service will be held at the Inlet United Church, 2315 Spring Street in Port Moody, on Monday, November 25 at 10:30 am. A service for friends and family in Scotland will be held on December 4 at the Stornoway Free Church Seminary.

The family extends their deepest appreciation and thanks to the wonderful staff and volunteers at Crossroads Hospice for their loving care of Chrissann in her final months. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Chrissann’s name to Crossroads Hospice.

It is with great sadness that the family of Glenn Belyea announce his passing on October 26, after a three-year battle with Pancreatic Cancer. He will be terribly missed by his wife, Susan, his kids, David (Natasha) and Steven as well as his brother, Ken (Carolin) and many other family members.

Glenn had a real zest for life and was always up for any adventure, whether it was cross country motorcycle rides with friends, sitting down with a good cup of coffee with a record playing, or spending quality time with his family and friends.

Celebration to honour Glenn on Sunday, December 1^st, 1:30 pm at Newlands Golf and Country Club, 21025 48 Ave, Langley.

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ron Lee on October 16, 2024.

Born in Hong Kong in 1952, Ron leaves behind a loving family: his devoted wife of 45 years, Jean, and their cherished daughters, Celeste, Evelyn, and Clarissa. He is also survived by his siblings, Victor (Teresa), Lance (Mona), Grace (Benson), Bob (Josephine), Steve (Grace), and Nancy (Peter).

Ron’s journey took him from St. Paul’s Co-educational College in Hong Kong to York School in Monterey, California. He went on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering and Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Toronto, setting the foundation for a remarkable career. For 30 years, Ron dedicated himself to Volkswagen Canada, earning the respect and affection of his colleagues along the way.

Ron always had a smile on his face and was happiest with his family and friends. In 1976, Ron found the love of his life, Jean, and they married in 1979. Their life together blossomed in Coquitlam, where they created a warm home for their daughters. He was the best husband and father, always ready to step in with his support, thoughtful gestures, and unwavering encouragement whenever they needed him, to ensure their happiness and well-being.

In his youth, Ron had a passion for crafting model airplanes and cars, and he enjoyed playing soccer and football. Ron was a passionate chef, who loved to try cooking different kinds of food for others, often bringing family and friends together around the table. He loved music — you would often hear him singing and playing the guitar, which he taught himself how to play. He enjoyed a spirited game of ping-pong, making lots of friends through the game. But it was his travels with family and friends that truly filled his heart with joy. He had an adventurous spirit that took him to all the 7 continents, exploring 40+ countries across the world.

Ron will always be remembered for his kindness, quick wit, consideration of others, sincerity, helpfulness and compassion, which touched everyone he encountered. His deep faith provided him with unwavering strength, comfort and peace, guiding him through life’s challenges. A pivotal moment in his spiritual journey came in 2014, when he was baptised in the River Jordan—a day that held profound significance for him.

Since being diagnosed with lung cancer in 2023, Ron’s faith continued to grow as he experienced God’s Love, Grace, Mercy and Faithfulness in every step of the way. One of his favourite hymns was “Great is Thy Faithfulness”. He placed his total trust in God and His Perfect Plan, no matter how the situation may appear. He truly believed that “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Though he may no longer be with us, we find great solace that he is now resting comfortably with the Lord, where “there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain” (Revelation 21:4b).

We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported Ron and our family throughout this difficult journey over the past 20 months. We are truly grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support in many heart-felt forms from too many people to name individually. Your love and kindness have been a source of strength for us. Ron will be deeply missed, but the memory of him will forever be cherished in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, we kindly ask that you consider making a donation to InspireHealth Cancer Support Care at inspirehealth.ca/give or the BC Cancer Foundation at bccancerfoundation.com. Thank you for your support.

Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 6th, 2024 at 10:30 am at Coquitlam Presbyterian Church, 948 Como Lake Ave, Coquitlam.

For those who are unable to join us to celebrate Ron’s life in person, here is the link to join us virtually: https://www.legacystreaming.com/watchnow/ .  With this link, you will be able to view the live stream in real time or later under the “Past Funeral Services”. When viewing on your computer, please do NOT view the service with either “Internet Explorer” or “Microsoft Edge”. Choose Chrome, Safari or Firefox.

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.