It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of a wonderful man on October 2, 2020. He is predeceased by his father in 1955, and mother in 1989. Dad was loved by many and was known for his generous character, kindness towards all, great storytelling abilities, keen sense of humour, a history buff, and had strong family values. Dad was born in Victoria in 1931 and was close to his grandmother, grandfather, cousins, aunts, uncles, adoring mother and stoic father. Family picnics at Cordova Bay were the highlight of his youth and he often reminisced about those days at the beach – the innocence of a by-gone era was reflected in his fondness for Laurel and Hardy movies and the art of Norman Rockwell. The 1940’s and 1950’s brought hobbies of cars at Western Speedway, motorcycles, instruments, music, and dances at the McMorran’s Beach House in Cordova Bay with his cousins and friends.
Dad was an honourable man who joined the Forces in Vancouver BC in 1950 and served with the 81 Field Regiment Royal Canadian Artillery. He did basic training in Victoria before going to CFB Comox and then shipping out to Korea. He returned to Victoria and retired from the army in 1956. Dad also served the Airforce from 1964 – 1975, temporarily in the Coastguard 1975 – 1991 on ships Camsel, Racer, Ready, and Rider in the engine rooms. He drove for various truck transport companies and was known on CB radio as “Black Bart”. His final job was as Commissionaire from 1992 until he retired in 1997.
When he married our Mom in 1965 Dad took his role as a Father figure seriously to 5 step-children and had 2 daughters of his own – Vicki and Sandra. When the marriage ended, his commitment to us remained strong making efforts every weekend, often driving for hours, to keep those lines of communication open as we grew. His strong family virtues were the glue that kept the family close. He was admired by many including his daughters, son-in-laws, 5 grandchildren, and was blessed with 3 great-grandchildren. His love of nature brought him to Lake Cowichan where he resided since 1988. His love of country music had him play in bands at dances around the town and the OAP Hall.
Coming from a family of military history, Remembrance Days had a special place in his heart – marching with comrades, participating in the ceremonies at schools, and the assurance that his children and grandchildren knew the sacrifices made for their freedoms. He acquired many friends along the way being a member of the Korea Veterans Association and the Royal Canadian Legion leaving an empty spot in all our lives. Many thanks to the neighbours, many friends, Gordon and Karen Croft, Dr. Postuk, support and hospital staff, and Pastor Ernie Gray who helped Dad on his journey. We greatly appreciate your care and support during the difficult times. Rest in peace with the Saviour, Dad. Until we meet again. 
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
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Jean Dorothy Farris (Small)
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Bruce Bunting A good man to have coffee and a long talk. I’m going to miss him.
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Judy Winnett (nee Gibson) I was very sad to hear about your father. It must be very hard for you and your family to lose such a special person.
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Brenda O'Grady A very sad day when Eddy left this world. Eddy was my stepfather, a very kind and gentle person, who married Mom (Lena) in the early 1960s, and by doing so suddenly became husband and Dad to five children (Christine, Linda, myself, Anita and Doug). Within a few years, he would be over the moon with the birth of Vicki and then Sandra, as we all were.
I am very grateful for the legacy Eddy left with us. Ahead of his time, he taught us by example to love nature and to respect the environment. Nutrition was another area Eddy felt strongly about, and I know I didn’t for the longest time appreciate brown bread over white. He made us root beer and on occasion flying bottle caps indicated that it had fermented—adding to the fun!
Going to John Dean Park was one of the highlights of those early years; being transported from the suburbs into a forest fairyland where the trees seemed giants and there was room to run free. The trees, the bushes, flowers—he knew so much about them all.
He loved a good story and a good joke and was always ready with one or two. And everyone who knew him remembers his wonderful laugh. You couldn’t help but feel happy hearing it.
Whenever I hear “sufficiently sophonsified”, “indubitably” or “an elegant sufficiency” I think of Eddy. He said them with a chuckle and we always laughed.
He had a love of life that remained fresh and young and his interests were diverse, from tropical fish to steel guitars to history to his old cars, particularly the old Merc (more a steadfast friend than a car I think).
Eddy was a kind and gentle person who tread lightly on this Earth but left a deep impression in our hearts. We all miss him.
Thank you Eddy and God Bless.
Brenda O’Grady
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Rob and Patty Daley So sorry to hear about your dear dad’s passing. We prayed for him often, and are thankful in this time of sorrow that the Lord gives his wonderful consolation and hope to all who trust in Him. Because He lives, so shall we. May his comfort and strength be with you all.
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Dan and Maureen Hart We’ve been blessed to have met him a few times . He left an awesome impression, laughter and sense of humour very much. Reading his story is amazing. All those that have had the pleasure to know him, have spent time with him, even once or twice will feel grieved. We send our deepest condolences to you Sandra, Blake and the girls. To all the rest of Mr. Ed’s family, sorry. On the other hand praising the Lord that there is eternity, we’re we will meet again. ✝️ We will meet again.
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Karen & Gordon Croft A wonderful Comrade, Friend and Person. Thank you for your service and thank you for enriching the lives of so many. You will be missed and may you Rest In Peace. See you at the Re-Org.
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Vincent Fortune Its always hard to put into words what you want to say. Just losing my dad at the beginning of the year, I think I have an ideal of what is to come.
I have wanted to call him, but then remembering that he is gone. Knowing how much I miss my dad, knowing how much you will all miss your dad.
Finding picture not seen for a long time . will bring tears of joy or sorrow.
Cherish your memories.
If you need to talk, you can reach out to me, or your pastor.
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Ian and Adele Smith Our sincere condolences to you and your family Sandra during this time of mourning – but we rejoice with you knowing your dad is now resting in the arms of our wonderful Saviour. Much love, Ian and Adele
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Nancy lanzillo What a beautiful message for your dad. You can heat the love.
We are so sorry for your loss. May your cherished memories help you in the days to come.
Your in our hearts and prayers no and always.
Love you.
Nancy and Dominic Lanzillo.
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Gail Fortune All my love Gail
I just heard about passing of my dear cousin Ed. I have many fond memories of birthday parties with cousins and summer days at the cabin at Cordova Bay. Please accept my condolences. Bill and Jean Small nee Farris