Marjorie Anne Mason (nee Sadler) of Fruitvale, BC died unexpectedly at the age of 68 on September 26, 2016 surrounded by her loving family.
Marj was born January 9, 1948 in Trail, BC; the daughter of the late Edward and Velma Sadler; the second oldest of five children; predeceased by her oldest brother Barrie Sadler, father-in-law Claire, mother-in-law Hazel, and brother-in-law Les Mason.
“Pocka”, as she is affectionately called by her grandchildren, is survived by her loving husband and soul mate of 48 years Jim Mason, daughter Krista Mason (Doug McKay), daughter Kari Sampson (Tim) and son Brad Mason (Heather). She took extreme pride in her five grandchildren Kaitlyn, Dylan, Jacob, Ally and Ben. She is also survived by her sister Joan Plamondon (Al) and brothers Laurie Sadler and Kenny Sadler and will be fondly remembered by her sisters-in-law Gail Mason and Lilie LaCrosse (Henry) and countless nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends.
Marj was the life of the party and heart of the home. She loved her family and enjoyed being in her yard surrounded by her grandkids while enjoying bonfires, her garden full of flowers, the wildlife and the stars above.
Her most favorite pastime was taking long drives on the back roads of Fruitvale with Jim. They would also travel around British Columbia, Alberta and the lower states in their motor home.
Christmas was one of her favorite times of the year. She loved decorating the house (usually the night before) and hosting her annual Christmas Eve dinner which was open to all, and she would often invite extras over to join our family’s celebration. Marj had a generous spirit.
Marj drove the school bus for close to three decades. She was loved by most and feared by all. She was frequently referred to as the “rebel” by her former bus driving colleagues.
When younger, she enjoyed playing slo-pitch with The Leftovers, especially in Metaline Falls; she also enjoyed bowling and curling.
Many will remember her as The Old Bar counselor as she was a good listener and good friend.
She loved going to garage sales in hopes of finding a hidden treasure that would make her a millionaire or visiting the casino for that one pull that would give her “the big bucks”.
Another gathering place for her friends and family was the cabin in Balfour that had been handed down from her Uncle Mel. She was always the last one sitting by the fire refusing to let the night end, telling stories and laughing “and that’s no bullshit!” Marj had a great sense of humor.
Marj had a heart of gold. She weathered loss and heartache, dried our tears and supported each of us throughout our lives. She will be missed dearly, and her mischievous giggle and twinkle in her eye will live on in our hearts forever.
We would like to thank the doctors, nurses and staff at VGH for their amazing care of Marj during her stay.
At the request of Marj no service will be held; Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services has been entrusted with the 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 a donation made in Marj’s memory to BC Children’s Hospital Foundation www.bcchf.ca would be greatly appreciated.