ILES Gabrielle (Gibby) Fernande
(nee Carriere)
Dec 3, 1919 – June 26, 2012
Passed away peacefully and free of pain at “The Views” in Comox, BC on June 26,2012 at the age of 92. Wife of the late Bill (Emmanuel) Iles. Daughter of Marie-Jeanne Bertrand and Evariste Carrière. Sister to the late Emile, Yvonne, Rêné, Gérald and Alice. She leaves behind her loving children Diana Abel, Richard Iles (Karen), Paulette Greig and Geraldine Zyvitski (Rick). Her grandchildren, Geoff, Scott, Laura, Tiffany, Tara, Ryan and Daniel. As well as great-grandchildren Blair, Brooklyn, Jack, David, John, Laurel, Jaiden and Charlie. Predeceased by her son-in-law Dave Abel and grandson MCpl Michael Abel.
Born and raised in Ottawa, Ontario she came to the Comox Valley in 1957 with her husband and four children. Bill retired from the military and although she missed the Ottawa valley, (especially sister Alice and her family) she grew roots in the Comox Valley and stayed in her Balmoral home until the age of 89.
She will fondly be remembered by the military members who she served tasty hot dogs and coffee to at the No.7 Hangar canteen. Many a small child has enjoyed a little apron sewn by Gibby for the Catholic Women’s League Bazaar. An active member of the Comox Legion Ladies Auxiliary she had great fun participating in many events including singing with the PubNiters and taking part in costume parties and fashion shows.
She always had time to make a cup of tea for her visitors and enjoyed a lively conversation in French or English. Discussing politics or news headlines often lead to fun and teasing with her son-in-law Rick. A martini, “stirred, not shaken” was enjoyed every now and then with her late son-in-law Dave.
She enjoyed working outdoors on her big property but especially roasting marshmallows on the bonfire with her grandchildren. There was always time for a trip to the beach, park or playground with them.
In her later years she found great joy in looking at pictures and videos of all her family and in particular her newest great-grandson Charlie.
She was known for being a spiffy dresser and her sparkling big brown eyes will not be forgotten.
You were right Mom! “Growing Old is NOT for Sissies”
The family would especially like to thank all the staff and volunteers at St Joseph’s Oceanview who always showed great kindness and compassion when caring for Mom. Our thanks also go out to Brian Ducedre of the Pastoral Care team and Dr Bowler.
A “Tea” will be held in her honour at her home at 956 Balmoral Rd, Comox, Saturday August 4, 2012 at 1:30pm. Donations to the St Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and in particular The Views would be greatly appreciated. http://www.cvhospitalfoundation.com