January 14, 2025
With sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of Mel (85) at Westminster House in Surrey on January 14 /25, after a prolonged illness.
He is predeceased by his parents, Benjamin and Sarah, and his son Benjamin. He is survived by his wife, Mary Pushie, children Heather (Ryo), Lors, and Annalee, his sister Sharon (Byron Sachs), and niece Marla.
Mel was born in Yarmouth Nova Scotia and was an athletic youth (tennis), an avid stamp collector, and a skilled bridge player. He pursued his education at Kings College and Dalhousie University in Halifax, earning both undergraduate degrees and a PhD in analytical chemistry. He went on to teach at Mount St. Vincent, Dalhousie and Simon Fraser University, where his daughter Heather used the lab manual written by Dr. ML Heit 20 years prior.
Mel spent his career teaching and influenced at least a couple of generations of future nurses, pharmacist and physicians for whom a passing grade in chemistry was a necessary prerequisite to further education.
After retiring nearly 30 years ago, Mel took on the role of at home parent and supported his wife in her work at Brookwood Family Practice.
Many thanks to the caregivers of Care at Home and Westminster House, the doctors and nurses at Peace Arch hospital and especially to Dr. B Toews who cared compassionately for Melvin during his final illness.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.
Memorial will be Friday January 31 at Victory Memorial Park 14831 28 Ave, Surrey BC and will be live streamed at 1 pm PST at www.victorymemorialpark.com
Service Details
1:00 PM