Alf Bracewell, much loved husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at 11 p.m. Tuesday, August 15, 2006 at Cariboo Memorial Hospital in Williams Lake.
He turned 83 in April. Alf was born in Rapid City, Manitoba on april 4, 1923, the middle son of five children.
He only completed Grade 7. It was during the Great Depression. He began working at 12 years of age; left home at age 16; joined the army in 1945 at 22 years old and served as a Military Police Officer. He earned the crossed rifles insignia "sharp shooter."
He carved 30 miles of the Freedom Road in 1952, from Anahim Lake to just before Young Creek and helped finish it on September 24, 1953 when the two "cats" met.
He married Gerry Moore on January 4, 1954 and became the adored stepfather of Gerry's two sons Martin, then 10, and Barry, then eight-and-a-half, Moore. Two more sons were added to the family in due course, Kevan and Alex, now 50 and 47 respectively.
Grandpa Alf was very proud of his nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.
Alf touched many lives. His patience and honesty is legendary. He influenced many young people to live up to his standards.
Alf's youngest son, Alex, pays tribute to his father with these words: "The value of my dad's contribution to his family and the community is beyond words. I am honoured to stand on the foundations that my father built, and respect the friendships that he developed."
Alf is survived, also by his loving wife, Gerry, one brother, George (June), four adult nephews and four adult nieces.
All four of Alf's sons were in attendance, as well as his brother George's son, Lance of the Lower Mainland and his deceased brother Walter's son Lloyd of California at the Celebration of Life held at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Williams Lake on Friday, August 25 and also at the Tatla Lake Hall on Saturday, August 26.
Alf's ashes were placed in the Tatla Lake cemetery after the service.
The family wishes to thank all those dear people who attended, as well as all those who sent their heartfelt condolences.