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IONE Tambellini

January 1, 2010

While recovering valiantly from a fall, Ione passed away suddenly at Boundary Hospital, in her 90th year. She was predeceased by her father and mother, Romey and Sara Kingsley; her sister, Irene (Keith); her brother, Irvin; and by her niece, Polaire (Keith).




Ione is survived by her sons, David (Mimi) and Rob (Mariana). Also surviving her are two grandsons, Paul (Stephanie) and Dennis (Miriam); and her three great-grandchildren: Matthew, Anna, and Emily.Born in Benton Siding, B.C., she was educated at Beaverdell, South Slocan, Christina Lake, Grand Forks and Trail. In 1932, the Kingsley family moved to Christina Lake as new owners of the resort with its newly built hotel. It was here that she met her lifelong partner George, whose family had arrived in Fife in 1912. Following their marriage in 1941, Ione worked as a copy writer and women's page editor for the Trail Times. In the ‘60s, she received a diploma from the Trail Business College. Eventually, she was asked to join the business school staff, where she taught spelling and typing well into the 1970s.In 1979, Ione and George returned to Christina Lake where they enjoyed their retirement playing golf, tending to their yard and garden, and traveling the world. In 2006, they moved to Clifton Estates in Grand Forks, where Ione continued to live after George's death in 2008. She was proud of her independence.Ione will be remembered for her wonderful wit, her calm nature, and her love of friends and family. When asked the secret of her longevity and health, she replied, “Don't sweat the small stuff.”At Ione's request, there will be a private graveside ceremony, with Reverend Simon Shenstone officiating. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Boundary Hospital.



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