Abe Gaitens

GAITENS – Albert (Abe) James passed away March 23, 2012, in the arms of his family after a final sip of champagne. Born September 4, 1931, in Ottawa, Abe grew up in Montreal and attended McGill before hitchhiking out west and finishing his degrees at UBC. He was known and loved for his subtle and sly wit, warmheartedness, encouraging nature, interest in others, curiosity about the natural world, rich imagination, and appreciation of deep knowledge. Among many other accomplishments and interests, he was a champion swimmer, RCAF pilot, pioneering computer systems analyst, award-winning wine maker, avid mushroom hunter, and voracious reader. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and brother, he will be sorely missed by his wife of 48 years, Joanne; children, Tanis, Kathryn, and Peter; grandchildren, Michela, Elena, Sofia, Luca, Oceane, and Blue; sons-in-law, Jim and Daniel; sister, Evelyn Flynn; sisters-in-law, Bronwen Cripps (and Greg) and Cherith Golightly (and Jacques); and many dear friends. His family offers thanks and respect to the staffs of Peace Arch and Surrey Memorial for their compassion and excellent care. A memorial service will be held this summer. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or your local library.