May 17, 1913-0ct. 7, 2011
Catharine Ethel Saunders (nee: Bigelow) passed away on October 7, 2011 at Chilliwack at age 98. She was born in Aberdeen, Saskatchewan on May 17, 1913.
Ethel was predeceased by her husband W.C. (Buster) Saunders on Dec. 26, 1986 and her great-granddaughter, Stephanie Robak on August 18, 2003. Ethel is survived by her son Earl (Carol) and her daughters Pat (Sig) Huth and Colleen (Terry) Bodman, all of Chilliwack, and sister Dorothy Hankin of Richmond. She was blessed with 8 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.
Ethel enjoyed her family and community and spent considerable time curling, playing bridge and singing in the church choir.
She was a life member of the Chilliwack Ladies Curling Club and an honorary member of Club 28, a Sardis women’s organization. Ethel was a choir member for many years at Carman United Church in Sardis and later at Cooke’s Presbyterian Church in Chilliwack.
She was a member of the Chilliwack Hospital Service League for over 35 years and a member of the Order of Eastern Star for over 40 years.
Ethel played a mean game of bridge well into her 90’s and would often be found as a spectator at the Chilliwack Curling Club or in front of the TV watching curling, baseball or hockey.
Ethel enjoyed her later years living at Norman Manor. Unfortunately, she fell and broke her hip earlier this year and never fully recovered. Following a hip operation, she was moved to the Bradley Centre.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Bradley Centre for the kindness and compassion they showed Ethel when she needed it most.
Following cremation, a family gathering will be held to honour the life of Ethel.
Online condolences can be left at www.hendersonsfunerals.com