Christopher James Garvey
June 9, 1930 ~ January 21, 2009
Christopher James Garvey passed away peacefully on
Jan. 21, 2009.
He is dearly missed by his family and many friends in Williams Lake and Vancouver.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Chris was proud of the 50 years he spent in Williams Lake, a community he loved and considered the capstone of his travels and adventures to many parts of the world.
Chris was especially fond of his Yorston Street neighbours and delightful coffee companions who entertain each other at their weekly get together.
What had intended to be a brief working tour with BC Hydro during the 1950’s quickly turned into a dedicated family life with his beloved Madeline and two children, John and Christine. He was so very proud that both his children went on to university.
Chris was a man of many talents and interests and he shared his knowledge through engaging conversations, stories and unique gifts. He enjoyed studying and charting the evening sky, collected clocks and maps, unusual art pieces, and of course, all things nautical.
Most important, Chris treasured the people in his life and had all the time in the world for absolutely everyone he met.
When the nights that he was able to chart the skies became fewer, Chris quietly moved on to other adventures in Vancouver. He watched the boats and evening lights along English Bay and was intrigued by his snowcapped Lions that now look out for him each day.
It is with great sadness that we saw him go. Chris Garvey was more than engaging. He was magnetic and he was a gentleman.
We know his soul continues on with the joy and work he had only begun in this life.
The Garvey family expresses their sincerest gratitude to Ruth Mazurkiewicz, Betty Mazurk, Mary Ailport, Janette Minchau, Dr. Whitman, Dr. Eugene Murphy, Joanne Therrien and Don Orlesky, friends and staff at Chalmers Lodge
and the amazing Care Team at the VGH Hip Trauma Unit.
A celebration of life will take place in Williams Lake in the spring.