Louise Evelyn (Nelson) Witham
Louise was born in Greene, North Dakota on February 25, 1921 and grew up on a farm near Mohall, North Dakota. She met Burton Witham in Mohall and they were married on May 12, 1946, when he returned from World War II. They were married 67 years. Their two children, John and Nan, were born in Mohall. In 1960 they moved to Regina, Saskatchewan and in 1964 to Fort McMurray, Alberta. In 1968 the family moved to Smithers, BC, where they lived until retirement.
Louise was a terrific manager and worked along side Burt in many businesses throughout their years, as bookkeeper, office manager and general assistant.
Louise and Burt loved to travel. They camped throughout western Canada when their children were younger. After retirement, they travelled extensively in their RV. A highlight for Louise was the winter they spent driving down the Baja peninsula in their truck and trailer. From 1990–1995 they lived full time in their fifth-wheel trailer, spending winters travelling in Arizona and California and summers as campground hosts near Fairview, Alberta. After they moved to Oliver, BC in 1995, they continued to spend winters in the South visiting friends and family and looking for new places to enjoy.
Louise was talented at sewing and handicrafts. She sewed and knitted for her family and continued to sew her own clothes until she was in her eighties. Louise was a great cook and enjoyed entertaining. From 1995 – 2011 they lived in Cherry Grove Estates in Oliver, BC. There she enjoyed the potlucks and dances at the Recreation Centre as well as inviting people over to visit on the deck.
Louise was predeceased by her son, John, her parents, Peter & Ella Nelson, and brothers Norbert & Don. She is survived by her husband, Burton Witham, daughter, Nan Bartlett (David), grandchildren: Zackary Witham (Samantha); Kristin Witham (Charlie Peasley); Blaine Bartlett (Kristie Modahl); Brady Bartlett (Josefine Natterqvist) and nephew, Everett Nelson (Teri).
In 2011, Louise and Burt moved to Mariposa Gardens in Osoyoos, BC where she passed away peacefully on October 16, 2013 at 92 years.
Services for Louise will be held at a later date. Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service in charge of arrangements. Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com