July 9, 1932 – Oct 20, 2012
It is with such deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our loved one Alton Whitney. He was an incredible son, brother, husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.
Alton passed away peacefully at home on October 20, 2012 in the arms of his beloved wife Theresa and surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
Alton is survived by his wife of 55 years, Theresa (known as Terry), their six children: Danny (wife Kate), Marie (husband Ron), Alan (wife Heather), Susan (husband Doug), David, and Dale (husband Steve). Alton is also remembered and loved by his many grandchildren and great grand-children.
Born and raised in Barkers Point, New Brunswick to Alton Sr. and Amy Whitney, he worked in the Nickel mines before joining the Royal
Canadian Air Force as a military police officer in 1956. Alton was stationed in St. Hubert before serving overseas from 1959-64 before coming back to Gagetown, New Brunswick. Alton’s last military posting was to CFB Chilliwack in 1974 where he and his family remained
after 25 years of federal public service. After retiring from the Canadian Armed Forces Alton worked his final years at the federal Kent Maximum Security prison before retiring to his wife and family.
Alton was an avid outdoorsman who loved to spend his time hunting and fishing. Even near his final days, Alton was optimistic the NHL players and owners would resolve their issues and get back to the game he loved to watch.
However, Alton’s true passion was his wife Theresa. Mom was the joy of his life and a constant dedicated partner, never leaving his side. They enjoyed having their tea on their patio surrounded by all his beautiful roses and gardens; they never left each other’s side.
Dad was a simple man, and a humble and a polite man, always thanking the nurses or shaking the hand of the doctors in appreciation for what they were trying to do. He never complained EVER! He amazed us all! He lived for his wife Theresa (affectionately known as Terry), children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Many who had the privilege of relaxing in their back yard would testify it was like a “piece of heaven”. Our father taught us to always enjoy the simple things in life, nature, walks, stopping and smelling the roses and to always be humble, polite, honest and never try to be someone you’re not, to be ourselves. Dad you taught us well.
The family would like to acknowledge the staff at Woodlawn Funeral Homes for their service and care at this difficult time. The family would also like to extend its appreciation to the Palliative care program, especially the home care nurses that showed their compassion to Dad and Mom. Dr. Hirst and Dr. Bull for their home visits and support. The family would also like to extend their gratitude to the staff at Chilliwack General Hospital, Abbotsford
Regional Hospital, Dr Hsu (Cancer clinic) and Dr. Bond and his staff at Surrey Memorial Hospital for all the incredible care he received during this long journey for him.
Thank you also to all the family back east that have flown out to spend quality time with dad, all his brothers and sisters that have been there for him during this difficult time.
Also for friends that came with meals and supported our family. And a special thank you to Reg Daws of FSNA who became Dad and Mom’s friend and support.
In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Canadian Cancer association.
We wanted to send this poem that a dear friend wrote that speaks volumes in how we all feel, to let him know he will be ok in God’s hands.
Letting Go
We must rest upon the notion
That you’re better off, somehow.
On the road ahead, we will hear it said,
“It only aches for now.”
We must search for open windows,
As we tug at closing doors.
We must swallow the belief that life will not be like before.
We must rise above the longing in our hearts
To have you back.
We must summon up our strength and find the courage
that we lack
To face the lonely days without your tender face to help us smile.
We must look beyond the present
Just to still our pain awhile.
As we labour at the task of letting peace replace our sorrow
We must trust the ones’ who’ve told us
That it WILL hurt less tomorrow.
We miss you so much.
Mom, dad loved you so much and he will always be with you forever more.
Online condolences can be left at www.Woodlawn-MtCheam.ca