Beverley Blanche Cooper

10 July 1939 – 30 August 2022

Bev passed away at home surrounded by so much love on August 30, 2022. Born on July 10, 1939, in Deloraine, MB, Bev was predeceased by John, her dear husband of more than 56 years. Bev is lovingly remembered by her daughters Cathy Elliot and P.J. Kenzie, their husbands Alistair and Aaron as well as her grandchildren Jim Elliot, Margaret Elliot, Cooper Kenzie and Thomas Kenzie. She is dearly missed by all, especially Gucci her furry, purry companion.

Bev was raised in Edmonton. As a determined and independent young woman, she entered nursing school right from high school. Bev trained at the Edmonton General Hospital and was a proud graduate of the class of 60B. Her nursing career took her to Penticton, BC where she met John and many lifelong friends. Bev worked as a nurse in the Penticton hospital and Community Health in Oliver before moving to Prince George after marrying John. It was in Prince George where their friends became the couples’ family. In the early 1970s, Bev and her family moved to Kamloops where she enjoyed growing a large garden alongside the South Thompson River. She loved being in the kitchen. There was often company who enjoyed Bev’s fantastic meals. The canned fruits and vegetables she made each summer grew famous among family and friends. Bev and John had an active social life entertaining, playing bridge, curling and golfing.

Bev returned to work at Royal Inland Hospital and was a nurse at Ponderosa Lodge for over 20 years. Retirement allowed her to spend more time playing bridge where she enjoyed meeting a variety of people and built long standing friendships. A lifelong sports fan, Bev enjoyed watching all sports, especially her beloved Blue Jays. Bev also enjoyed exercise classes at the pool and walking the river. Bev looked forward to weekly visits with Gia and valued her friendship.

Bev loved and appreciated her two daughters. As the family grew, she enjoyed time with her sons in laws and grandsons watching various sports and swapping sports statistics. None of the boys could equal the card shark status she shared with her granddaughter. Bev was always so proud of her grandchildren. After John passed away, Bev moved in with P.J.’s family and once again had a hungry family to feed. Bev made amazing soup (clam chowder), homemade buns, the world’s best apple pie and yummy squares. Sadly, no one in the family has successfully mastered the soup or the apple pie.

Bev lived her life with courage and strength. Bev’s family always felt her love and support even when she didn’t say it aloud. She knew what was needed, often before they did, and made it happen before they could lift a finger.

Bev’s family is grateful for the support of friends as well as caregivers. The family offers special thanks to Comfort Keepers, Dr. Jason O’Connell and many caregivers who made a difference: Mary, Sharyse, Jaylyn, Tori and 1st floor Ponderosa team.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated. There will be no service at Bev’s request.

People don’t always say:

I love you.

Sometimes it sounds like:

Be safe.

Did you eat?

Call me when you get home.

I made you this.