Lyla Aldine Skodje (nee Bowell) passed away peacefully on August 17, 2003 in White Rock, B.C. The eldest daughter of Stephen and Charlotte Bowell, Lyla was predeceased by her sister Bonnie Tupper, her brother Stephen Bowell, and her beloved husband, Bernt. She will be greatly missed by her loving family; brother Gary Bowell (Francis); son, Ted (Agnes); daughters, Valerie van de Wint and Berna Miller (Vern); grandchildren; Todd and Ryan Skodje, Jay and Jennifer van de Wint, Yvette Plante (Jeff), Jorda and Travis Miller, nieces and nephews, as well as her Church Family.
Born in Sapperton, B.C. on May 12, 1911, Lyla attended U.B.C. and graduated from Normal School. Before her marriage to Bernt in 1936, she taught in Spences Bridge and Anderson Creek, B.C. Her children were raised in Burnaby where she was an active parent, a substitute teacher, and a Sunday School Teacher at Cliff Ave. United Church. Lyla was a devoted member of the Women's Missionary Society at both Cliff Avenue United Church and at St. John's Presbyterian Church in White Rock. She was a enthusiastic gardener and talented in all manner of needlework. While residing at Whitecliff Retirement Home in White Rock, Lyla served as the Church Service Co-ordinator and was a member of the Water Colour Artist Group. Lyla was a most beloved mother and grandmother - exceedingly patient and caring.
Funeral service was held at St. John's Presbyterian Church, 1480 George St., White Rock at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, August 27, 2003. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Lyla, to the Heart and Stroke Foundation at 1212 W. Broadway, Vancouver, B.C. or the charity of one's choice.