Cousins, Melvin “Mel” Henry
1918 - 2002
After a lengthy illness, Mel passed away Saturday, May 4th, 2002 in Surrey Memorial Hospital with his family by his side. Born in Victoria, Mel had an interesting and satisfying life spending his late teens working in the Yukon on the sternwheelers and then shipping overseas to war in the Canadian army. On his return he married his sweetheart, Grace Stewart in Victoria and soon after they moved to Courtenay. In the early 50’s he was employed by Grant Brothers Logging. He continued to work for Crown Zellerbach and took an active part in valley community life. Mel was a proud member of the Courtenay Volunteer Fire Dept., a Scoutmaster, Guardian for Bethel #8 Jobs Daughters, a member of Florence Chapter Eastern Star, and member of Hiram Masonic Lodge and Scottish Rites. He was also a member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary. When he wasn’t volunteering, you could find him at the marina shining his boat and his fishing tackle. In the 1960’s Mel moved the family north to the Englewood Logging Division where he was most happy when ’up to his hard hat’ surrounded by nature. Retirement brought Mel and Grace back to Comox where they enjoyed their many friends and interests and Mel once again could be found at the marina, listening to the fish stories and admiring the boats. A desire to be closer to a family encouraged them to move to the mainland but he always missed the island.
He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Grace now of Surrey, B.C., sons: Ron and Bruce of Surrey, daughter Donna deJong (Peter) of Comox, grandson Michael and sisters Ilene and Sheila.
A Funeral Service will be held at Comox United Church on Saturday, May 11th, 2002 at 1:30 p.m. with Rev. Ray Brandon officiating. Piercy’s Funeral Home in care of arrangements.