September 21, 1913 – May 6, 2012
at the age of 93
Mass: Friday, May 18, 2012 11:00 a.m.
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Salmon Arm
Viola died at Hillside Village in her 99th year. She was predeceased by her husband Donald Kenneth Lee and an infant, Gloria Dawn, as well as all her 9 siblings.
Born near the Ottawa River in Quyon, Quebec, Viola was the 7th child of descendants of large Irish immigrant families. Her father transported the family across Canada in search of work, after the death of her Mother, in childbirth. The remote Desolation Sound area became her playground where logging employed her Father and many of her siblings and their offspring over the following years.
Her family name (Behan) is still widely known in Powell River where her late brothers and sisters raised their families. She is survived by many nieces and nephews in Powell River as well as her special friend and niece, Pat Materi of Vancouver.
Viola moved to Salmon Arm in the mid 70’s and prided herself on being a hard-working, independent lady. She attended daily Mass as she was able and enjoyed preparing family dinners, gardening, knitting, and planning her next Halloween costume to amuse the family. Her devotion and love to her entire family and those who knew her will be her legacy.
Left with many fond memories of her fun and laughter are son and wife, Ron and Catherine Lee, Armstrong, BC, daughter(s) and husband(s), Phyllis and Andre Bouchard, Pembroke, Ontario, and Cynde and Robin Russell, Tappen, BC. She will also be fondly remembered as “GG” to her nine grandchildren and their children.
The staff at Hillside Village, Cottage # 6, gave Viola extraordinary care these past 4 years, as did her long time family physician, Dr. Cindy Malinowski.
Viola’s family appreciate all the love and care she has received at Hillside, the many volunteer hours from the Shuswap Hospice Program and the weekly visits from the ladies of St. Joseph’s CWL., Salmon Arm.
Cremation to follow with arrangements being handled by Fischer’s Funeral Services and a Mass to honor Viola will be held at a later date.
Donations may be sent to Shuswap Hospice Society, Box 967, Salmon Arm, BC V1E 4P1.
To Ronny,Phylis,Cynde.
Just found out today of Aunt Vi reuniting with all her brothers and sisters.
I am very sorry for your loss,and it is a big one losing your mother,but always think of the wonderful place she is in. And if she could come back she wouldn’t want to.
Thank you very much Aunt Vi for the nice memories of you and our Dad.and the such good care you took of our Uncle Pat Carroll
My prayers are with her and the family.
Carroll
Auntie Vi and I went to Woodwards years ago to buy a chime clock..I always wanted one…It was never anything she wanted and told me so…I looked for a while and she finally said “they all tell the time…just pick one” so I did…I have often thought of her and her laugh..She and my dad always had a bet who woulod die last..Guess she won..
I’ll remember her at Mass.
Dearest Cynde and Robin ,
My thoughts are with you and your family with the passing of your Mom . May the memories of your Mom live on in your hearts , always .
Nel .
Hi Cynde,
Sorry to hear of your mom’s passing and I know you will miss her. I remember when she came out in the dragon boat with us. I’m sure you have many fond and wonderful memories of her and she will always be in your heart.
Betty
Cynde Robin and family
We were sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing although I understand the last few weeks were difficult.
We so enjoyed our visit with her a few year’s ago and also you and Robin.
We will see you in Powell River and hope to caatch up a little at that time.
Love from Don and Patricia
Cynde Robin and family.
We were sorry to hear of your Mom’s passing although I understand the last few weeks were difficult.
We so enjoyed our visit with her a few year’s ago and also you and Robin.
We will see you in Powell River and hope to catch up a little at that time.
Love from Patriciaand Don