AUCHTERLONIE – Wilbert Baird (Wib),
born August 10, 1940, passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on Saturday, May 1st, after a difficult battle with cancer. Left to celebrate his life are his wife of 30 years, Jan, his son, Cavan, sisters Nonie and Fran, brothers John and Peter, his many nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.
Wib was born in Cumberland to Wilbert and Madeline (Gee) Auchterlonie, where he attended school before working as a logger and in the family bakery. Wib and his brothers took over the bakery and he worked there until his early retirement, moving to Quesnel and Hope, before returning to Bowser after Jan retired.
Wib was a true craftsman and artist, building and renovating his beautiful homes, building his wood models, and painting murals. He passed down his love and talent for woodwork and building to his son, Cavan, a gifted craftsman in his own right. Wib enjoyed many wonderful years camping, riding ATV’s and snowmobiles in the Cariboo and Interior before his return to the Island. His love for the water was evident his entire life. His sailboat brought him many years of pleasure, as did the very special group of friends he made after moving to Bowser. Whatever the weather or time of year, he could often be found on the dock or driving his dinghy around Deep Bay with Kipper, his Jack Russell Terrier.
We would like to thank the many friends and family who made the last few months enjoyable through their visits, phone calls, cards and e-mails. Special thanks to friends from the Bowser area, who became Jan and Wib’s second family, visiting daily and helping out in whatever way they could. Thank you also to Drs. Law and Kenny and to the nurses on the 3rd floor of St. Joseph’s Hospital for the wonderful care they provided Wib.
No service by request. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC SPCA.
Fair winds and following seas, Sir.