Maurice Fellis

Born in England in 1932, Maurice passed away peacefully at North Shore Hospice in the early hours of July 19, 2023 after an eight-month long illness. The family is grateful that he was able to stay in his beloved home until the last two days.

Maurice was predeceased by his wife Amelia, parents John and Jenny and his sister Wendy. He is survived by his son Marc (Terry), nephew Gary (Susan), nephew Darren (Lisa) and niece Lesley.

After attending York University Entrance Nautical College, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, he spent six years as Cadet and Navigating Officer on dry cargo and tanker vessels. Upon arrival in Canada in 1955 he met Amelia Zavaglia in North Vancouver and they were married in 1957. In 1961 they welcomed their only son Marc.

After the death of his dear wife, Maurice reconnected with family friend Elizabeth Sewell and they spent many years travelling the world and visiting back and forth between his home in West Vancouver and her home in Victoria.

He held various executive positions at Westward Shipping Ltd. from 1956 until 1994 when he retired as Chairman. He served as Director, Pacific Pilotage Authority from 1981 to 1994 and returned as Chairman from 1999 to 2005. Over the years he served as Chairman of the BC Maritime Employers Association, President of the Chamber of Shipping of BC and Vancouver Merchants’ Exchange. He was the recipient of the Award of Excellence from the National Transportation BC Division.

Maurice will be remembered not only as a great gentleman and loyal friend to many, but also for his commitment to serving his community. He served as Director of the Mission to Seafarers, Canada-Japan Society of BC, Bill Reid Foundation Trust Board and most notably President of the North and West Vancouver Hospital Society and Chairman of the Lions Gate Hospital, North Vancouver.

A celebration of life will take place at a date yet to be determined.

In keeping with his generosity, in lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider making a donation in his memory to the Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, BC Cancer Foundation, Mission to Seafarers or the charity of your choice.