Victor Milne Clarke

Vic Clarke passed away on Tuesday, June 30, 2015 at Waverly Seniors Village at the age of 92 years. He was born July 10, 1922 in Mission, B.C.

Vic was predeceased by his wife of 60 years, Doris, in 2009 and brother, Everett in 1992. He is survived by his son Dave Clarke (Shelley) of Chilliwack and daughter, Joan Jarman (Don) of Courtenay. He was “Grandpa” to Deborah Jarman (Mark Winters) and Troy Cooper (Pam). He was “Great Grandpa” to Parker, Ty, Josh and Willow.

Vic was the youngest son of Rosa and Richard Clarke and moved to Chilliwack with his family on March 17, 1925. The family crossed the Fraser on The Empress of Chilliwack from Harrison Mills and landed at Minto Landing to take up residence on McSween Road. Vic lived most of his life on Fairfield Island, attending Strathcona and Fairfield schools in his early years.

From 1940 - 1944, Vic lived in Vancouver where he attended Brisbane Aviation School, then worked at Boeing Plant #3 on Sea Island manufacturing planes for the war effort. On his return to Chilliwack he worked on the Fraser running boats for the Cartmell family, then became an electrician, working his entire career for M. Dickey and Sons. He married Doris Harker in 1949 and they moved to their small farm beside the Fraser River where they lived for over 60 years.

In addition to his lifelong love of aircraft, boats and fishing, Vic was an accomplished amateur photographer and a dedicated reader of non-fiction - particularly local and B.C. history. He loved to garden and was an expert on vegetables and plants, often sharing his knowledge and the fruits of his labour with family, friends and neighbours.

Vic was a devoted father who always showed tremendous pride in the accomplishments of his children. He was much loved by his extended family, and he and Doris were always “at home” to welcome friends and relatives from near and far. Visitors often left with a bag of home-grown walnuts, a squash or a box of fresh tomatoes or fruit.

As was his wish, Vic came close to celebrating his 93rd birthday living on the land he loved. His family sincerely thanks all those who assisted him in his last months at home and his last weeks in Chilliwack General Hospital and Waverly Seniors Village. A special thanks to Dr. C. Rose, Dr. R. Jones and the caring team at Magnolia Clinic.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 8, at 10:30 am at Chilliwack United Church, 45835 Spadina Avenue. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Chilliwack Hospice Society or the charity of your choice.