Skip to content

July 26, 1943 - April 29, 2015.

Ben was Chris's soulmate, a loving Father to Adrienne (Mark), Kate (Brad), Lauren (Kieran) and Scott (Sarah), and the very best Oupie to his grandchildren Marley (Billy), Jake, Josh, great grandbaby Oscar (all of whom were carry his name) Sammy and Iain. He is also loved by his sisters Freda in Chilliwack and Betty in South Africa and his brother Joe in Chilliwack as well as a very large extended family in Canada and South Africa. He died with dignity and courage in the gentle care of Ty Watson House in Port Alberni.

Ben and Chris want to say a very heartfelt thanks to our wonderful family Dr. Izak Nel, his Palliative care Dr. Wendy Johnsen, Dr. Robbie O'Dwyer, the amazing staff of the Lab and Emergency at West Coast General Hospital, Diane, Marnie and Colleen his Ty Watson Community nurses and all the Nursing Angels at Ty Watson House - you know who you are and what you meant to Ben.

Ben led a simple life and family and friends were the most important thing to him. He told us he did not want a fancy send-off. His words were, "find a local pub and get everyone together to raise a beer or wine and tell stories about me." We invite family and friends to join us at the Kingsway Pub, 3203 1st Ave., Port Alberni on Saturday May 30 from 2 to 4pm to do just what he asked. Please bring your stories and photos to share with us.

Because we are at a pub, those under 19 cannot attend. Ben also asked that if you wish, please bring along a donation for Ty Watson House hospice where he was cared for with unconditional love, respect and with hours of laughter, by the many Volunteers who have shared our life over the past months. We could not have made this journey without them.

Stories and Condolences may be forwarded to family by visiting www.yatesfuneral.ca



Secondary Title

Your condolences will be approved within one business day. You will need a valid Facebook account. Please email us if you have any questions.