DUNCAN: BESSIE MAE
After a long and fulfilling life Bessie passed away at the Golden and District Hospital on April 2rd, 2014. Born in Kelowna, November 13th, 1917 to Augustus and Minnie Macdonnell, Bessie was raised in the Winfield/Ellison districts. She loved all the outdoor activities of riding, hiking and gardening. In 1940 Bessie married Andrew Duncan Jr beginning her married life on the Belgo then following him to some of his postings while he was in the Airforce. They lived on the Belgo until 1954 when they bought an orchard in Westbank where they continued to raise their three children. Bessie was an extremely hard worker as well as a great organizer. Her gardens, chickens, baking and home-making skills are still remembered. Parties with games, mazes and prizes for children and adults alike encouraged even the most reluctant to take part. Family was Bessie’s priority and joy but she also contributed a great deal to her community through her work with the church and support of children and families in need. Bessie is survived by her daughters Jo-Ann (John Ackery), Sharon (Brian Weir), son David Duncan, sisters Joy Cross and Phyllis Hanson, brother Allan Macdonnell and brother-in-law Frank (Mike) Duncan. She leaves 8 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild and many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Andrew, her brother George, and sisters Norma and Gwen. A Celebration of Bessie’s Life will be held on Wednesday, May 14th, 2014 at 2:00 PM from the Chapel of First Memorial Funeral Services, 1211 Sutherland Ave. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation (Children’s Care Fund) or the British Columbia Children’s Hospital. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mem.com, click on stories and type in Bessie Duncan.
Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna. 250-762-2299