Herbert (Bert) William Graham
October 16, 1935 – November 12, 2016
Sadly, Bert passed away peacefully at home holding hands and lying cheek to cheek with his loving wife, Joyce on Saturday, November 12, 2016.
Born on October 16, 1935 Bert was raised on the family farm near Foxwarren, Manitoba. His love of hockey and farming carried with him to Brandon where his father owned the International Harvester dealership. Bert later moved to Winnipeg where his social nature provided for many adventures and a B.Sc. (Ag) from the University of Manitoba. Bert also attended university in Madison Wisconsin where he completed a leadership and extension course. He began his career as an Ag Rep with Manitoba Ag in Holland, moved on to become the regional Soil Specialist in Brandon, and retired as the provincial soil specialist in Carman. Bert loved the land and took pride in many projects but highlights included his pioneering work with Manitoba’s Conservation districts, his leadership in repairing severe flood damage in Swan River and his work as the provinces first organic crop specialist. Bert also spent a few years as a Credit Officer with Manitoba Agricultural Credit Corporation and sales with Simplot Chemical. However, he was happiest when farming his own land near Bradwardine.
Bert and Joyce rebuilt a beautiful cabin in Clear Lake, Manitoba that became a favourite gathering place for family in the summer time. Many days were spent boating, waterskiing on the lake and landscaping the yard. Evenings were spent playing cards, board games and enjoying campfires outdoors. Bert always had a project on the go and enjoyed making additions to the cabin. Bert retired to Parksville in 1998 where he and Joyce enjoyed many years exploring the islands. An avid curler, he skipped many teams at the Parksville Curling Club. He thoroughly enjoyed the competition and camaraderie which extended to bonspiels including one in St. Albert in March 2014. The same group organized golf games to many different courses on the island.
Bert loved photography and enjoyed posing for selfies long before it became popular. He had a great appreciation and collection of music; and always challenged himself with the latest technology.
Bert is survived by his wife, Joyce; daughters, Michelle (Laurie), Debra (Dan) and Shawna (Ken); grandchildren, Aaron, Skyler (Jessica), Kayla, Rachelle, Hanna; and great grandson Max. He is also survived by his brother, Doug (Myrna), sister Ruby (Don) and numerous nephews and nieces. Bert was predeceased by his sister, Marie.
A private Memorial Service was held for Bert on Sunday, November 20, 2016.
In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring Bert’s memory by making a
donation in his name to the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation, CT Scan Fund, 1200 Dufferin Crescent, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2B7
To send a condolence to the family please visit www.yatesfuneral.ca
YATES FUNERAL SERVICE & CREMATORIUM
(250-248-5859) in care of arrangements.