Ronald Francis Poets

Ronald was born on May 16, 1941, in Swan Lake, Manitoba.

Ronald proudly served in the Navy in his early years, a time that shaped his strong work ethic and steady nature. After his service, his life was forever changed when he met beautiful Gillian Joanne Poets (Carnell)—the love of his life, his light, his joy, and his very best friend for 60 years. Together they built a beautiful life, marrying and raising three children: Sandra, Dennis, and Darryl.

Ronald’s career in BC Highways and BC Forestry took the family throughout various communities in British Columbia, eventually bringing them to Duncan, B.C., where they made their longtime home. Deeply rooted in community and nature, Ronald spent countless hours tending his garden, tinkering in his garage, and crafting many projects with care and creativity. He generously shared his time and knowledge as a dedicated volunteer at the BC Forest Discovery Centre in Duncan.

Ronald cherished his role as a father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was blessed with grandchildren Sean, Ashley, Cody, Michael, Patrick, and Dane, and one great-grandchild, Emersyn, all of whom brought great pride and purpose to his life.

Ron was also fortunate to have a wonderful group of friends throughout his life—Friday night dinners, houseboat trips, ball tournaments, cruises, and countless memories shared along the way.

Ronald is predeceased by his mother and father, beloved wife Gillian, son Dennis, brother Dave, sister Doris.

He is survived by his daughter Sandra Clarke, his son Darryl Poets (Katherine), granddaughter Ashley Cherry (Chris), grandsons Sean Poets, Cody Poets, Patrick Poets, Michael Clarke, and Dane Julsrud, his cherished great-granddaughter Emersyn, daughter-in-law Tina, niece Trina (Wayne), sister-in-law Barbara, brother-in-law John (Lisa), brother Terry, sister-in-law Phyllis and extended family.

Ronald will be remembered for his gentle spirit, his larger-than-life personality and humour, his devotion to family, and the love he shared so freely. His legacy lives on in the memories he created, the family he adored, his constant humour, and in every corner of the home’s and garden’s he and Gillian lovingly built together.

Our family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to his caring and devoted aides (and friends), Cindy and Lori; Sherwood House and its staff; the wonderful doctors at the Coleman Clinic; and the dedicated staff of Island Health, for their compassion, support, and exceptional care.

Ron will be deeply missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring.