Viola died at Hillside Village in her 99th year. She was predeceased by her husband Donald Kenneth Lee and an infant, Gloria Dawn, as well as all her 9 siblings.
Born near the Ottawa River in Quyon, Quebec, Viola was the 7th child of descendants of large Irish immigrant families. Her father transported the family across Canada in search of work, after the death of her Mother, in childbirth. The remote Desolation Sound area became her playground where logging employed her Father and many of her siblings and their offspring over the following years.
Her family name (Behan) is still widely known in Powell River where her late brothers and sisters raised their families. She is survived by many nieces and nephews in Powell River as well as her special friend and niece, Pat Materi of Vancouver.
Viola moved to Salmon Arm in the mid 70’s and prided herself on being a hard-working, independent lady. She attended daily Mass as she was able and enjoyed preparing family dinners, gardening, knitting, and planning her next Halloween costume to amuse the family. Her devotion and love to her entire family and those who knew her will be her legacy.
Left with many fond memories of her fun and laughter are son and wife, Ron and Catherine Lee, Armstrong, BC, daughter(s) and husband(s), Phyllis and Andre Bouchard, Pembroke, Ontario, and Cynde and Robin Russell, Tappen, BC. She will also be fondly remembered as “GG” to her nine grandchildren and their children.
The staff at Hillside Village, Cottage # 6, gave Viola extraordinary care these past 4 years, as did her long time family physician, Dr. Cindy Malinowski.
Viola’s family appreciate all the love and care she has received at Hillside, the many volunteer hours from the Shuswap Hospice Program and the weekly visits from the ladies of St. Joseph’s CWL., Salmon Arm.
Cremation to follow with arrangements being handled by Fischer’s Funeral Services and a Mass to honor Viola will be held at a later date.
Donations may be sent to Shuswap Hospice Society, Box 967, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4P1.
In memory of Viola, condolences and shared memories can be emailed to www.fischersfuneralservices.com