PERRY, LAURENCE WYLIE passed away at home on July 11, 2010.
Laurence Perry was born in Armstrong BC in 1921, the seventh of thirteen children born to Reginald and Catherine Perry. At the age of 6 he moved to Salmon Arm where he attended school and played team sports.
Laurence served in the Merchant Marines and the air force during World War II. He often talked of his travels across the ocean and the character and quality of the people he worked with. At the end of the war Laurence attended UBC law school and after graduation went to Williams lake to article. It was 1950 in Williams Lake where he met Irene Wanuk at a church square dance. Irene said he had everything but money. They were married in Kimberly in 1950. An opportunity to start a practice in Smithers came up and while discussing other options Irene said “Choose mountains.” And they did. Their first of five sons, Paul was born Dec.7, 1951 in Smithers.
Through the years he established many friendships and loyal clients who valued his advice to the end. He worked very hard to make the civic center arena dream a reality. He loved going prospecting back in the hills with his old friend J.J. Herman. He became part owner of the Spatsizi guiding area in the 1970’s and promoted the idea of it becoming a provincial park.
In 2000 he fought cancer and survived. In 2006 he had an accident which took away much of his mobility and nearly his life. After many years of working on his Tyhee lake property Laurence and Irene moved back to town.
Laurence took on life with enthusiasm and kindness. He truly enjoyed working for and with people. He placed great value on family and friendships.
He is survived by Irene, his wife of 59 years, sons Paul (Lorna), John (Wendy), Mark (Jane), Dan (Julie), Joel. Grandchildren Lisa, Trevor (Alethia), Marie, Vance, Matthew, Lane, Tess, Leah, Jaime, Lauren, Rhiannon and great grandchild Shaden. Brothers Sandy, Bud, Doug, John. Sisters Marguerite and Noreen.
“We miss you. Thanks so much for being a great father and husband for so long. God speed, peace.”
A Funeral Mass for Laurence was celebrated on July 16th, 2010 at 11:00 am in St. Joseph’s Church with Father Rectorino Tolentino officiating.
Luke 12:48
But of everyone to whom much has been given,
much will be required;
And of him to whom they have entrusted much,
they will demand the more.
Interment took place in the Smithers Cemetery. If friends so desire, Memorial tributes can be made to Operation Eyesight Universal at 4 Parkdale Crescent NW, Calgary, AB T2N 3T8.