February 25, 1926 - January 15, 2022
It is with great sadness and wonderful memories we announce the passing of Edwin Milton Bracken at Evergreen Baptist Care Home, White Rock BC.
Edwin was predeceased by Marie in 2018, his loving wife of 64 years, fondly remembered by children Valerie (Roy), Andrea (Blair) and Shelley (Stuart), 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Ed was #9 of 17 siblings of which 4 survive him.
Born February 25, 1926, in Tessier Saskatchewan, Edwin spent his early years working on the family farms in Marchand and Clandeboye Manitoba. At age 30, he left the farm with wife Marie and their baby girl in tow for a new life in British Columbia.
During his 35 years as a Longshoreman, Ed and Marie became very involved in the community of Port Coquitlam square dancing, round dancing, and were active members of Trinity United Church. Besides delivering Meals on Wheels he was also a 75-time donor for the Canadian Red Cross and prided himself on having the tidiest yard on the block.
Recreation property at Whatcom Lake allowed many hours spent on his Hobie Cat and opportunities for family to learn to sail.
Edwin came from a large prairie farming family which since (1960) has held family reunions every 3 years and are still being held to this day. Those were highlights in both his life and the lives of his immediate family. It was always a big car trip across the prairies to reconnect with all his siblings, nieces, and nephews. In later years they made the trip in their trusty gold camper van!
Retirement saw Ed and Marie move to South Surrey, continuing with gardening, clogging, extensive travel and new friendships in their community of Ocean Bluffs. Visits around Canada and the world to see children and grandchildren were so important to him.
As his health deteriorated, Ed moved into Evergreen Baptist Care Home in 2016 where he received kind and supportive care from all the staff. His daughters would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff on the 7th floor. During Covid when visits were difficult, a special staff member arranged Skype visits and Ed's daughters can't thank you enough for that connection.
Funeral service (at Trinity United Church in Port Coquitlam) will be determined as Covid protocols allow.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer Society of BC would be an honour.