Claire Mary Birt

It is with heavy hearts that the family of Claire Mary Birt (Marchand), announce her passing on September 4th, 2012 in Kelowna B.C.. She was born on October 16th, 1924 in Petite De Gras, Nova Scotia. Her husband Wendell, and brothers Stanley and Ernest Marchand predeceased her.

Claire grew up in Isle Madame, in a little fishing village, with a very loving family that shaped the beautiful woman she became. She moved to Halifax during WWII, where she met her husband, Wendell, who was enlisted in the Navy. Following the war, they were married in Cove Head and lived in Souris, P.E.I. until 1961. All of her five children were born on the Island. She was a fantastic mother and her children had an idyllic childhood, growing up free to explore their world knowing they were cherished and loved. In 1961, the family moved to Truro, N.S., where Claire made many life long friends. Claire took up the sport of curling and Wendell would always comment on her shot making abilities. They became life long curling fans. Claire and Wendell loved to travel; her favourite trips were to Spain with her best friends, the late Kaye and Carl Roode. Later, “The West” beckoned the Birt children, so Claire and Wendell decided to join them and relocated to Kelowna, B.C. in 1990. She mastered Brazilian Embroidery and many family and friends have her exquisite work hanging in their homes. Claire made many friends in Kelowna, and all who knew her loved her, as her favourite expression was “You have to love to be loved.” While she had many gifts, her finest was cooking. No one left her home without an incredible meal and feeling they were special to have been invited. She lovingly fed everyone.

Claire will be deeply missed by her children Alan (Linda) Birt, Wendy (John) Citulsky, Janet (Bill) Stephens, Janice (Al) Patterson, Chris (Allison) Birt. Her loving siblings, two sisters Priscilla Samson and Bernadine LeBrun; two brothers Leonard and Alexander (Ty) Marchand. She cherished and was so proud of her numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Special thanks to her caring neighbours and dearest friends Bella & Everett Taylor, Jeannette & Buz Turk, and Bonnie & Ron Robertson. We wish to thank the staff at Hospice House Kelowna, especially Rhonda, Rachael, Linda and Orleane, for their extra care. Also Dr. Bystron, and Heather and Elizabeth at Andreen’s Pharmacy. When our mother and family needed an angel for support, our dear Aunt Bernadine, mom’s sister, flew to our assistance. With all our love, thank you. Memorial Service to take place at 11:30 a.m., on Saturday, October 6th, 2012 at First Memorial, 1211 Sutherland Ave, Kelowna, B.C.. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hospice House, 2035 Ethel St. Kelowna, B.C., V1Y 2Z6.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mem.com and searching her name under stories. Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC (250)762-2299.