September 8, 1933 – February 2, 2017
Roy passed away peacefully on February 2, 2017 after 83 amazing years of adventures. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Janet. He is also survived by his two children, Ken (Sandra) and Shelley (Willy). The four grandchildren he leaves behind are Jesse (Lyndsay) and Kayla, Robby, Joey and three great grandchildren, James, Jack, and Johnathan. Roy is survived by his sister Leona and twin brother Don (Bonnie). Roy is also survived by many special relatives such as in-laws, Albert and Dianne Pidgeon, nieces, nephews, cousins and many dear friends. Roy was predeceased by his parents, Adam and Rose, brothers Albert, August, younger sister Irene and infant sister, Louise. Born in Mildred, Saskatchewan he was sad to leave the farm at eight years old but quickly adjusted to his new home on Vancouver Island. His summers at the Namu Fish Plant, where he worked as a teenager on the tally dock created strong bonds with many friends who remained connected and supportive his entire life. These early years were the beginning of his passion for a life well lived. In 1958, Roy married Janet and in their 58 year journey as partners in life and business, they were parents, loggers, oyster farmers, commercial fish buyers, boat movers, dancers and musicians. He built the Born Free I, a 60 ft. fish packer in the early 70’s and Simba II, a shrimp boat in the late 90’s. He made life long friends from Juneau Alaska to Bellingham, Washington from his fishing years. A vivid story teller he had a brilliant way of recalling the events of his past and could entertain or vex the family with his anecdotes. His stories were always mostly true. He tried to be a farmer too but Buddy the horse ran away, the sheep bleated night and day, and the geese got eaten by a mink. He did however, have a special connection to his son’s dog, Chubby, who travelled with the family all summer long during the fishing season. Roy spared no expense flying all over the coast in a float plane to find Chubby who fell overboard but actually found his own way home. Jiggs, the Husky/Malamute cross, found Roy on the Taku River where Roy and Jan fished for three years from river boats while living in a wall tent during the summers. Jiggs adopted Roy and taught him how to survive in the wild. As the fishing seasons shortened Roy built a successful boat moving company and transitioned away from the long months at sea. Roy also became involved with the Metis in the Comox Valley and enjoyed the music, dancing, and learning about his culture and heritage. He was devoted to his family and fully immersed himself in his role as a Great Grandpa. Roy played the guitar and drums. He loved to dance and never wanted to miss a Friday night seniors dance at the Filberg Centre. “The song has ended, but the melody lingers on….” At Roy’s request there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Kidney Foundation, BC and Yukon Branch – 200-4940 Canada Way, Burnaby BC V5G 4K6: https://www.kidney.c/bc-home or an organization of your choice . The family wishes to extend their gratitude for the patience, kindness and professional care from Dr. Gee, Dr. Steve, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Hospice at the Views, VIHA Palliative Care Nurses, Nanaimo Kidney Care Clinic, Dr. Glick and Nurse Deborah.