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Clarence Andrew Hala late of Chilliwack, passed away on June 3, in Chilliwack General Hospital, after a lengthy illness.

He was born July 31, 1930 in Weyburn, SK, the second son of Clem and Susan (Kosolofski) Hala.

His childhood was spent there, with his siblings, Jack, May and Norman.

He was baptized as a child, in January 1951. He joined the Army and was sent to Chilliwack. On June 15, 1951 he married Claire Marie Alice deMontigny. He was sent to Korea for one year, and it was during the time that his son Dennis was born. He returned to Chilliwack and in 1957 was released from the Armed Forces. Three daughters completed the family.

He was a carpenter, specializing in heavy-duty construction. He worked throughout the province on the Mica Dam, many Hydro lines, Roger’s Pass, the Fraser Canyon fish ladders, and several of the Fraser Canyon tunnels. He enjoyed card playing and fishing the interior lakes. Everyone recognized the yellow cargo canoe that he had for over 25 years.

Sadly, his beloved wife passed away in 1981.

In 1984 he married Hertha Goertzen. He worked on the Coquihalla until he was injured and then managed Island 22 for two years after which he retired.

They spent many winters in Arizona and they holidayed in Acupulco, Cancun, Cabo San Lucas and Mazatlan. They spent many summers fishing, and these times were especially enjoyable when they could take the grandchildren along.

He was predeceased by his parents, his wife Claire, brother Jack, brother-in-law Pol deMontigny, and son Dennis.

Left to mourn his passing are his wife, Hertha; daughter-in-law Debbie of Regina, SK, daughter Suzanne, Calgary; Graeme and Ian; son-in-law John (Sue) Sampson, Victoria; daughter, Sylvia (Greg) Peel, Kamloops; James and Jason; daughter, Pat (Doug) Dewhirst, Agassiz; Dayna; sister-in-law Sheila Hala, Moose Jaw; brother, Norman (Sharon) Medicine Hat; and sister, May Wotta, Edmonton; and step-family Judy (Dave) Millar, Chilliwack; Barb Saunders, Chilliwack; Kate (Al) Bennett Merritt; Tony (Carol) Goertzen, Sardis.

Special thank you to Heather Anderson from the Veterans Department for her invaluable assistance, and to Kathryn Zanatta and her Home Support worker for their guidance and help in looking after Clarence as his health failed. Also to Dr. Scholtz and the nurses and staff at Chilliwack General Hospital for their kindness and care.

Memorial Service will be held on June 13, 2009 at 2:00 pm at the Evangelical Missionary Church, 9310 Williams St., Chilliwack. Pastor Glenn Fretz officiating and reception to follow.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Charis Camp or the Salvation Army Food Bank.




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