Fern was born on April 4, 1941, at Creston, B.C. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on June 29, 2011, at the Trail Regional Hospital at the age of 70.
She is predeceased by her parents, Richard and Jean Chandler and by her sister, Gail Bond. Fern is lovingly survived by her husband, Sarge; sons: Rob (Louise), Ron (Debbie), Darryl (Leigh-Anna) and Eric; grandchildren: Starsha, Jesse, Curtis, Shandra, Emily, Brittney, Jaden, Kalea and Myah; and her brother, Mel (Rakhshandeh).
Fern's growing up years began in the Creston area, where at a very young age she acquired her love of sewing and cooking. Later, her family moved to Nelson where she completed her schooling. Shortly after, she came to Grand Forks for a job interview with the B.C. Telephone Company. It was at this time that she met her future husband, Sarge. They were married in November of 1959 and began their life together in a small rented house, eventually building their own home where they raised their children and resided all their life.
Fern was a member of the Order of the Royal Purple of Canada for many years and enjoyed participating in it's many activities. She loved sports and spent many hours either coaching, watching, feeding or transporting the kids as they progressed through baseball, hockey, figure skating and bowling. Fern loved camping and many memorable times were spent with the kids. She loved bowling and later on in life, enjoyed bingo, playing cards, reading and especially socializing with her friends at A&W, which was always the highlight of her day. And of course, her greatest love were her grandchildren, which at times she thoroughly spoiled, with her special goodies and trinket surprises.
In November of 2009, their 50th wedding anniversary was celebrated with family and friends. It brought back 50 years of memories of their wonderful life together. She will not be forgotten and will stay in our hearts forever.
We wish to convey our thanks to the medical staff both in Grand Forks and Trail, and to all our friends and family for their love and support. Also, a thank you to the Grand Forks Funeral Home for their help and kindness. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to The Grand Forks Funeral Home.