Ivan Cartwright

After a courageous battle with cancer the family sadly announces the passing of their loved one Ivan Edgar Cartwright on February 12, 2011 at the Rotary Hospice House in Prince George, BC.

He is survived by his mother Magdaline Cartwright, in Grande Prairie, AB. Partner Gail Elgert, daughters Allison Cartwright (Brad Thomson) grandchildren Darrick and Brittney Franz in Kenora, ON. Vanessa Cartwright (Mark Sprungmann) grandchild Alexander Sprungmann in Victoria, B.C. Sisters Iris Williams in North Vancouver, B.C., Sharida Sawyer (Doug) in Victoria and his brother Allan Cartwright, who also lives in Victoria. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Percy Cartwright.

Ivan was born December 9, 1941 in Geraldton ON.

Ivan was raised in Grande Prairie AB. where he graduated High School. At the age of 18 he joined the Navy and was there for 3 years.

Ivan had a 34 year career as an employee for the Federal Government working in many departments and locations. His career took him from Cambridge Bay NWT, to Fort Chipewyan AB working on the Dew Line. Carrying on then to Saskatoon SK, Winnipeg MB, Kenora ON and finally residing in Prince George BC working for the Federal Department of Industry Canada since 1980.

An involved community member, Ivan joined the Nechako Rotary September 1, 1995 and supported its many causes and activities. He was especially active in Rotary’s project to restore and maintain the trails in Cottonwood Island Park. He was a member of the Board for the Central Interior Family Foundation which operated Robson House. During many United Way Campaigns, he was front and center raising money for community causes. He was also dedicated to his involvement in the Red Nose Campaign, raising awareness about the risks of impaired driving.

Always physically fit, Ivan belonged to the YMCA and faithfully showed up there to exercise at least three times a week. He was also a member of the Rambler's Club as an avid hiker. The height of his hiking adventures was in Nepal when he reached the base of Mount Everest. In May of 2007 Ivan also accomplished the historic El Camino trail in Spain.

A member of the congregation at St. Michaels and All Angels’ Church, he served on the parish council for many years.

His funeral was held on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael and All Angels’ Church (corner of Victoria and Fifth Avenue) with Fr. Joe Ponic officiating.

While floral tributes are lovely, the family prefers that donations to honour Ivan’s memory be made to Rotary Hospice House at 3089 Clapperton Street, Prince George, B.C. V2L 5N4. Donations are accepted online at www.hospiceprincegeorge.ca.

Ivan will be remembered for his dignified demeanor and engaging sense of humour. We will miss him forever.

“To live in the hearts of the ones you love is not to die.”

Arrangements under the direction of Lakewood Funeral Home, Prince George, BC.