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Effie Margaret (nee Beaton) Venechuk

December 13, 2010

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VENECHUK, Effie Margaret

(nee Beaton)

Oct 26, 1919 – Dec 13, 2010


Effie Venechuk passed away on Monday, December 13, 2010 at St. Joseph’s General Hospital in Comox,BC at the age of 91 from complications of diabetes and a recent cancer diagnosis.


Predeceased by her parents, brothers and sisters and her husband of 52 years, Harry. She is survived by her daughter Joanne Hamilton (Mike) of Courtenay, her son Don Venechuk of Hope, her grandchildren Nicole Hamilton, Christopher Hamilton, Graham Venechuk and Carson Venechuk, her step-children Maria Frederick and Wally Venechuk both of Gibsons, BC, their families and many nieces and nephews.


Effie was born and raised in North Vancouver. In her early twenties she formed a singing trio called the Rhythm Pals with her sister Velma and a friend and they did a lot of radio work in Vancouver on CKMO, CKWX and CJOR. She left Vancouver in 1953 when she married and settled in Calumet, Yukon, a large mining community where Harry worked. She played piano for various dances and musical productions, took Royal Conservatory Piano lessons up to grade 9 and also took oil painting lessons while raising her family. In 1958, because of dad’s position with United Keno Hill Mines they had an opportunity to meet Prince Phillip when he toured the Yukon. Effie and Harry left the Yukon in 1962 and settled in Courtenay. She eventually joined CoVal Choristers where she sang in the alto section in some of their productions. Mom spent her last 5 years living at Casa Loma where she enjoyed various activities, her lady friends at the dining table and never having to cook another meal!


The family would like to thank the Casa Loma Staff, Dr. Fitzpatrick, Dr. Green, the ambulance crew, emergency staff and 3rd floor nursing staff for their caring and kindness.


At her request there will be no service. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Canadian Diabetes Association in her memory.



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