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(Keith)

“Laughing Boy”

Nov. 21, 1931 – Jan. 30, 2011

With deepest sorrow we announce the passing of Frederick (Keith) Mitcham, dearly beloved Father and Grandfather. Born in Drumheller, Alberta, Keith was one of four children. He is survived by his son Garth, (Diane) and two grandchildren, Sarah and Derek. Together with his family, Keith spent his childhood years moving around Alberta, ultimately relocating to Victoria, B.C. His fondest adolescent memory was flying trainer aircraft as a cadet. In his teens, Keith worked on a Chinese truck farm where his unique laugh lent him his nickname, “Laughing Boy”. Keith later became a pattern maker, employed at Victoria Machinery Depot (VMD) and Yarrows Shipyard. He also created the pattern for the famous, multi-globe, City of Victoria lamp standards.

Keith married Barbara Byers in 1954, had a son in 1961, but divorced in 1973. Keith later met his soul mate, Elizabeth Ansel, with whom he spent 34 years living a farmers’ life, raising Sicilian Cross Donkeys. Operated on Vancouver Island for 10 years then relocated to Sardis in 1986, the donkeys of “Phantasy Pharm” maintained a tradition attending Easter and Christmas at St. John’s Church in Victoria, for which a dedication was held in May 2010. The couple also provided a home for boys at Phantasy Pharm allowing them to find peace and a supportive environment. Reverend John Sovereign will be holding a memorial service at the Cascades Hospice, 45586 McIntosh Drive, Chilliwack, B.C., 1:30 p.m., Friday, February 4. The family wishes to extend its deepest appreciation to Cascades Hospice and Dr. Cameron Ross for all their sustaining efforts. Donations in Keith’s memory (tax receipted) can be sent to “Chilliwack Hospice Society” for volunteer and staff training, 45360 Hodgins Avenue, Chilliwack, B.C. V2P 1P5



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