May 29, 1926 - June 15, 2018
On June 15, 2018 the world seemed a little less bright. Our dear father slipped away quietly surrounded by those who loved him. Dad was born in St. John's Newfoundland May 29, 1926 to Matthew and Louise Churchill. He was the youngest of three children. His brother Leslie, and sister Muriel, described him as a young rascal. He remained mischievous to the end of his days.
He joined the Canadian Army in 1944 transferring to the Canadian Air Force in 1947. He married Betty Noftall in 1952 and passed away 11 days before their 66th Wedding Anniversary. Daughter Barb was born in 1953. Son Chris was born in 1961. Dad had many postings with the military including Resolute Bay, Baker Lake, Germany, St John's Summerside and Goose Bay. With all the moving he was always proud that he managed to ensure that both kids were born in Newfoundland. His final posting was Comox in 1967.
The whole family, including the cat and dog, had a cross-country adventure as Dad drove us from St. John's to Comox in a Volkswagen Station wagon. Dad retired from the Air Force in 1971. He worked for Gulf Oil in Courtenay and then Crown Zellerback in Campbell River before finally retiring in 1984. He had a long and wonderful retirement. Dad loved the Comox Valley and he and Mom lived in Courtenay for 49 years. They spent many winters in Hawaii and Yuma, Arizona. Summers were spent at Tall Timbers on Sproat Lake. Dad continued waterskiing into his 70s.
Dad loved his golf, his garden, crossword puzzles, and suduko. He enjoyed many years of oil painting and was an avid reader. Often a book would be across his chest as he slept in his chair with the cat. He was a gentle, kind and generous man. He loved to laugh and often did. Hopefully he is having a glass of red wine and bragging about his golf game with all the friends and family that have passed before him.
Dad was predeceased by his grandson Kent and is survived by his wife Betty, daughter Barb, son Chris and his wife Denise, grandson Brandon and his wife Lindsey, and great grandchildren Mason, Taylor and Carter.
Memorial Service to be held at First Memorial Chapel, 1720 Bowen Rd, Nanaimo on August 11 at 11 AM.
First Memorial Funeral Services