Albert William Boniface

Born in London, England, to Albert and Daisy Boniface, he spent most of his childhood in the city alongside his sister Dolly before building a life in Canada centred on family, the outdoors and his home in Mt. Lehman.

Following the end of the Second World War, Al undertook two years of National Service with the British Army, serving in Austria. It was during this time that he developed a lifelong enjoyment of the outdoors and physical activity. He immigrated to Canada in 1953 and started working for BC Tel that same year, remaining with the company until his retirement in 1992.

Al and Beverley met while skiing at Mt. Baker and married in the spring of 1970. In 1976, they moved to a ten-acre hobby farm in Mt. Lehman, fulfilling his lifelong dream of raising a family in the countryside. BC Tel provided the livelihood; the farm made sure there was plenty to do when he got home. Over the years, they tried their hands at raising beef cattle, dairy cows, hogs and laying hens, as well as tending to their many gardens, with no shortage of opportunities to learn things the hard way.

Away from the farm, Al was an avid skier, hiker and backpacker. Being active remained part of his daily life as he grew older. Even when mobility became more difficult, he continued taking daily walks and working out at the gym.

Al was outgoing and enjoyed the company of others. His close friends, the congregation and choir at Mt. Lehman United Church, and the companionship of the Men's Breakfast group were all valued parts of his life. Most of all, he loved being with his family. A little outdoor activity together, followed by a coffee in the sun, was his idea of time well spent.

Al will be dearly missed by Bev, his wife of 56 years; his children Andy (Corinne), Nancy (Roger) and Robyn (Andrew); and his five grandchildren, Emily, Vinnie, Ruby, Sammy and Lily. He was predeceased by his parents; his sister Dolly and her husband Stan.

A celebration of life is planned for the new year.