June 8, 1926 - September 5, 2020
It is with heavy hearts that the family of June Dorene Donalda Evans (nee Halvorson) announces her passing. June was predeceased by her husband Gerald Elmer Evans and is lovingly remembered by her children Kenneth (Margaret), Sandra (Tom), Jan, Chris (Karina), 10 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.
June's four grandparents were from Norway and were part of the exodus to N. America in the mid 1800's. Born to parents Lena and Helmer Halvorson, June was one of 13 children and grew up on a pioneer homestead in Provost, Alberta where land was cleared for grain farming.
She attended a 1 room school until Grade 9. In the winter her older brother drove her and other children to school in a sleigh pulled by 2 horses. In the nicer weather she rode her pony and had to remember to pack along a sack of grain. The high school was far away from the family farm so she and a friend boarded out at a house in town. They remained lifelong friends.
One of June's brothers encouraged her to pursue a career in nursing. She was the only one in her family to receive a post secondary education. After graduation she was offered a position as head nurse at the Edmonton General Hospital. It was here that she met her future husband Gerry who was an intern at the hospital. He went on to be the only pediatrician in the Upper Fraser Valley at the time.
June and Gerry raised 4 children. They were members of the Chilliwack Player's Guild, founders of the Chilliwack YM-YWCA and sang in the United Church choir. June's hobbies included playing guitar, weaving, golfing, calligraphy and knitting.
After retirement June and Gerry moved to Qualicum Beach and enjoyed their cottage on Hornby Island. Eventually they moved to Vancouver and were active in the choir at St. Stephen's Church.
June was a longtime member of The Holy Rollers - a piemaking fundraiser group for the church.
The family would like to thank the medical staff and caregivers at Vancouver General Hospital and Little Mountain Place. There will be a private graveside service at a future date.