Mel passed away peacefully on June 7, 2008 at the Salmon Arm Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Linda, his son, Todd (Erin) Williamson of Mansfield, TX, daughters, Leanne (Dave) Hillsdon of Langley, BC and Marnie (Dave) White of Calgary, AB, plus 7 wonderful grandchildren, Christian, Sarah and Noah Hillsdon, Iain and Ellie Williamson, and William and Kieran White. Mel is also survived by his Mother, Olive Williamson of Neepawa, MB, and brothers, Wyman (Olga) Williamson of Winnipeg, MB and Wayne Williamson of Glenella MB and brother-in-law, Eric (Jan) Rafnkelsson of Ninette, MB plus uncles, aunts, cousins, nieces and nephews.
Mel was born in Winnipegosis, MB on September 10, 1941 and spent his early years in northern Manitoba. He began his 15 year career with Manitoba Hydro by entering a lineman training program where he worked his way from lineman to district supervisor to systems analyst before moving to Langley, BC for 7 years and then to Victoria where he worked for BC Hydro for 17 years as a field operations manager. His last position before retiring was that of district manager of the Gulf Islands. He and Linda retired to Blind Bay in 2002 where they found their perfect retirement location and enjoyed 6 wonderful years in a community of caring people.
Mel was always available to offer help wherever needed and held many volunteer positions over the years such as director of the Saanich Volunteer Society, president of retired Hydro employees, volunteer for the Computer for Schools program, BC Hydro program, Wise Owl and also volunteer for income tax for seniors.
Mel’s favorite past times were traveling to visit his grown children and grandchildren, flying a Cessna 172, riding his motorcycle and golfing as much as he could. He will be fondly remembered as an easy going and fun-loving person - famous for his one-liners.
A Celebration of Life for Mel will be held at the Cedar Heights Community Centre in Blind Bay on Monday, June 16 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Myron Crown officiating. In lieu of flowers, if so wished, contributions can be made to the Sorrento Evangelical Free Church, Box 37, Sorrento, BC or to the Canadian Cancer Society.
Sincere thanks to Dr. Grant McCallum for his care of Mel, the staff at the Cancer Clinic in Vernon, the nursing staff in the Salmon Arm Hospital,
community care nurses, home care, hospice and pharmacists both in hospital and at the IDA Pharmacy in Salmon Arm.
Arrangements entrusted to Fischers’ Funeral Services and Crematorium of Salmon Arm, (250) 833-1129, fischers@sunwave.net