March 19, 2019
With a mix of sorrow and much gratitude for a life well lived, we announce the passing of our beautiful Stella/Mom/Grandma/Great-Grandma/Nana Davies. Held by the love of her family, Stella crossed over peacefully March 19 and into the waiting arms of her beloved Jack who passed before her in 2015.
Born Stella Mary O'Krainetz, March 2, 1929, in Vancouver BC, Stella grew up in Alberni and Port Alberni. She was the middle child of three with an older brother (deceased) and younger sister. As a child Stella loved to dance and write and even dreamed of becoming a journalist. After her father was injured in a logging accident, however, Stella left school at age 15 to help earn a living for the family. Never one to complain, Stella worked at a plywood factory by day and danced away her evenings.
Stella might have said her life truly began when she met Jack in 1946. The handsome soldier with two left feet swept the dancer off her feet, and after a two year courtship they married and began their family. They made their first home in Sproat Lake, but after seven years they were off on the first of many stops around BC as Jack's job with Hydro kept them on the move. Memorable communities included Alert Bay, Nakusp, Invermere, and Courtney before finally settling down in Salmon Arm in 1974.
Wherever she lived with Jack, Stella had the ability to make close friends and become an active member of her community. In addition to the different jobs she held over the years (preschool teacher, candy store owner, tree nursery worker), Stella regularly volunteered with the Kinettes, Hospital Auxillary, and Power Pioneers, and belonged to a variety of groups and clubs. Children from her neighbourhood will remember her leading the parade for the annual Corn Roast, or acting as lifeguard in her backyard pool that was enjoyed by all.
Stella was an outgoing and vibrant soul who held friendship and family dear above all else. She will be greatly missed in the community and fondly remembered by her children Diane (Brian) and Keith (Leslie), grandchildren Melanie, Erik, Angela, Roslyn, and Ashley, and nine great-grandchildren.
Thank you to the caregivers at Bastion Place and Mount Ida Mews for their professional, compassionate care, and a special thank you to Dr Weicker for years of personalized attention and support.
A celebration of life will be held at Bowers Funeral Home, 440 10 St SW, Salmon Arm, BC, on April 6 at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choosing. A reception will follow in the Mountainside room at Bowers.
On line condolences may be sent to Stella's obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com.
