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HEARN, Albert Wilfred — of Salmo passed away in Nelson, BC on July 27th, 2013 at the age of 95. He was born December 19th, 1917 in Nelson, BC.

Willie enjoyed reading, watching nature programs on TV and walks in the Friendly Forest. In his younger years, he spent a great deal of time canoeing and cross country skiing. He also loved to travel. He was a Charter Member of Royal Canadian Legion Branch #217, serving as Secretary for many years; he was a member of Ymir Lodge #33 where he also served as Secretary and then Chaplain; he was Mayor of Salmo and was on the first Council. He was a member of the Shriners. He was on the Founding Board of Selkirk College in Castlegar. He was active in his church through the years, serving on the Board, teaching Sunday School and helping with renovations and maintenance. He, with his brothers, started and ran Hearn Brothers Lumber Company at Park Siding for many years, retiring in 1976. Always on a quest to learn, he had a computer and even at 95+ regularly emailed family.

Though he was a man who accomplished much in his lifetime, his proudest achievement was his family. He was very proud of each and every member, and was never happier than when he was surrounded by his loving family. He was a rock, always looking out for us and finding ways to help. Family dinners were always a cherished occasion, made complete with Mom’s legendary pies.

Willie is survived by his son Brian (Adeline) Hearn, daughter Dianne (Don) Clark, grandchildren Devon (James) Morin, (great grandson) Hugo, Dustin Clark, Desi Clark, daughter Gail Coffey (Dave Hunter), grandchildren Brianne Coffey, Taylor (Meredith) Coffey, Brenda (Dana) Buchart, grandchildren Kyle Buchart and Jocelyn Buchart, brother Edward (Dorothy) Hearn. He was predeceased by his infant daughter Wendy Marie in 1952, son-in-law Dick Coffey in 2006 and his beloved Mary in 2011.

A Memorial Service for Willie will be held at Crossroads Christian Fellowship on Saturday, August 10th, at 11:00 am. Interment of ashes to follow at the Salmo Cemetery and Luncheon at the Salmo Legion. Al Grywacheski of Personal Alternatives Funeral Services “Carberry’s Chapel” is entrusted with arrangements. You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence by visiting the family’s register at www.myalternatives.ca

As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made in Willie’s name and would be gratefully accepted by The Kootenay Lake Hospital Foundation, 3 View Street, Nelson, BC, V1L 2V1.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the doctors and nurses on the third floor of Kootenay Lake Hospital for the excellent care that Dad received during his short stay. Special thanks to Dr. Keith Bridger for looking after both Mom & Dad for so many years. Dr. Bridger, Mom & Dad thought you pretty much “walked on water” and we are so thankful that they had such a wonderful physician. All of you have our deepest gratitude.

Thanks to the Trail Ambulance Crew and staff of Trail Regional Hospital for their care of Dad after his fall. Also, thanks to our Salmo Team: Maggie Marsh, Donna Hutchman, Shauna Lovell, and Duncan Mackay

& Tracy Davies and staff, for all you did to help us care for Dad so he could stay at home. Your expertise and support has been immeasurable.

We love you, Dad, it seemed too soon to lose you, but we know you were tired and ready to go. I’m sure Mom welcomed you with open arms. You waited a long time to see your lady again. We will miss you forever. Our lives will never be the same without you.



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