What should you feel when a very special man passes away?
Should you feel sad?
Perhaps a bit, but perhaps you should also feel joy. Joy because you knew him and contentment because he knew you.
Lance Bailey passed away, quietly and with the dignity one would expect, at 8 p.m. March 4, 2003 at Chilliwack General Hospital.
He had a wonderful life. From growing up on a farm in Saskatchewan and riding the rails during the Depression, to becoming an executive with the Singer Company, a Shriner, and an officer in the Air Force.
He spent 62 years with the woman he loved, his wife Sharie, who predeceased him two years ago. They travelled the world together and shared their happiness.
For the past two years, he lived at the Lynnwood and shared many delightful times with the charming and stimulating people there.
He leaves behind many people who loved him and were inspired by him.
His brother-in-law Fred Nelson of Wetaskiwin, Alta., on the last day of Mr. Bailey’s life said, “he was, as a man, as close to perfection as you can come.’’
His son’s friend and his friend as well, Carol Mair of Toronto said, “that he was the “gentle’’ in the word “gentleman’’.’’
He once advised his son, who didn’t understand it at the time, “that in business you don’t have to beat the other person to win.’’ In Lance Bailey’s life, everyone could win.
Lance Bailey is gone, but his mark on the earth will live on through those who will be inspired by his gentle strength and by his true selfless goodness.
The world will be a better place if there are more Lance Bailey’s to come!
He will be remembered well by his son Barrie Bailey; and his granddaughter Erinn Bailey of Toronto, Ont.; his son’s fiance Judy Hamilton of Toronto, Ont.; his former daughter-in-law Julia Edmond of Orillia, Ont.; his brother-in-law Bill Bennett and family in Terrace; his brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Mary Nelson and family of Wetaskiwin, Alta.; also by many nieces, nephews, and more friends than can be recorded on this page.
Lance Bailey will be missed, but he will be remembered and loved by many. Thank you Lance Bailey, Dad, and God Bless you!
The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Mar. 8, 2003 at the Chilliwack Alliance Church, 8700 Young St. A tea prepared by the Eastern Star will follow.