Purnell, (nee Reece) Rose
Born Jan. 26, 1934 in Bristol, England
Rose passed away peacefully at home on Feb. 16, 2011 with her loving family beside her. Rose married Ron March 9, 1957. They immigrated to Canada in 1963 with their children Julie and Steven. Michael was born in 1969 in Smithers. Rose worked as a bookkeeper for Highland Electric, Madigan Equipment, McEwen’s Autobody, and Goodacre’s Super Valu. Mom also was the accountant for Smithers Figure Skating Club competitions on many occasions.
Rose retired 14 years ago to be by her husband’s side. Rose loved to travel and went to many places around the world. As a family we spent many weekends camping at Takaysie Lake. Rose’s pastimes were knitting, crosswords, watching figure skating and hockey. She loved to spend part of the winter in Arizona with close friends.
Rose is survived by her loving husband Ron, daughter Julie (Rob), sons Steven, Michael (Tricia), grandchildren Melissa (Ben), Robert (Caitlin), Lindsay (Joe), Nicholas, Ryan (Dayna), Leigh, Jessie, Maria, Mathew, great grandchildren, Jaxson, Summer, Jennifer Rose, Corbin, Autumn, and Andie Reece.
Rose was predeceased by her sisters Dorothy and Eileen. She has two brothers in England, Frank (Gwenda), Bernard (Doreen) and many other family members in England.
Rose was a true lady, with compassion, poise and dignity. She was dedicated to her husband Ron, children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was a real fighter when it came to her battle with cancer, especially knowing that she would be having three new great grandchildren.
Rose is surely going to be missed by her family and friends.
In memory of Rose donations can be made to “Cancer Services” c/o BVDH, Box 370, Smithers, B.C., V0J 2N0.