Tribute

September 28, 1931 – December 22, 2018 If you were ever sent to the Principal’s office, chances are good you would have met Millie Ford. She was a secretary for the Powell River district in most of the schools. Millie was born on a farm in Bonnyville, Alberta. She was one of 11 children who moved here when she was nine years old, along with their parents. She married her highschool sweetheart Don Ford (deceased 1997) and had four children Terry (Marg), Sandra, Rob (Cherry), Gerald (Annette), living on King Avenue next to Wildwood Motors, the family business at the “Top of the Hill.” Millie had a zest for life, loved anything electronic, grew a zillion raspberries, toasted with her wine and shared the bounty of her garden, with cooking skills enhanced by Neil’s mother. Years ago, she traded piano lessons for a clean floor she scrubbed for Mrs. MacGregor. Millie’s life was a testament to hard work and good family values. In later years she was partnered for 17 years with Neil Gustafson in Lund and with Zoey; they enjoyed both extended families, chased the sun travelling, netted their biggest fish, pulled prawns, enjoyed music and, of course, Firehall fun. Millie studied with the Jehovah Witnesses, embracing spiritual pursuits when not in the garden, her “happy place.” She led by example. “Don’t talk about it, just do it.” She taught everyone she met whatever she knew, not just her own kin. She insisted on a job well done. Dynamite comes in small packages. She was amazingly fit and strong until cancer had its way. Five generations are now four. It is ironic she passed away on the longest night of the year. Many thanks to the many caring faces along her way. Her loss to this family and her community is profound. Please come and share your memories at a celebration of Millie’s life legacies at 1 pm on Saturday, January 19, at the Carlson Community Club. Thank you.