DURAND, Gertrude Sheila (Klemik)
Age 75, died peacefully in NRGH Intensive Care, on February 8, 2006.
Gert was born in Firridge, Saskatchewan on February 14, 1930, where she lived with her mother and nine siblings.
Gert moved to BC, settling in Port Alberni where she met and married her husband, Edward Durand, of 54 years on November 24, 1951. Gert retired from 37 years working in the plywood mill. She and her husband then moved to Parksville for retirement. Gert was an avid ball player for years, playing ladies fast ball. Her devoted husband Ed would coach the team. It was often heard she could “hit like a man.”
Gert’s greatest joy was her family - children and grandchildren.
Gert will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Survived by her husband Edward Durand; daughter Beverly Vanderpool (Larry); grandchildren Niki Ganie, Doug Stuffco; great grandchildren Ashliegh, Cole and Brooke; sister Rose Bromeland; brothers Joe (Helen) Klemik, Stan (Sohie) Klimek. Predeceased by her parents Anton and Katherine (nee Kraska) Klimek; brothers Adam Klimek, Charlie Klimek, William Klimek, John Klimek, Frank Klimek, Benny Klimek; and sister Mary Drumond.
To Those I Love and Those Who Loved Me
When I am gone, release me, let me go...I have so many things to see and do.You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears,Be thankful for our many beautiful years.I gave you my love, you can only guess,How much you gave me in happiness.I thank you for the love you have shown,But now it’s time I travelled on alone.So grieve a little while for me if grieve you must,Then let your grief be comforted by trust.It’s only for a time that we must part,So bless the memories within your heart.I won’t be far away, for life goes on,So if you need me, call and I will come.Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near,And if you’ll listen with your heart, you’ll hear,All of my love around you, soft and clearAnd then, when you must come this way alone,I’ll greet you with a smile and say, “Welcome”