Tribute

 It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Beverley Stanich at the age of 87. Bev was born in Merritt to James and Mildred Logan but primarily grew up in Princeton where she met the love of her life, Frank Stanich. They married in 1954 and lived in Princeton, Greenwood and Manning Park before settling in Merritt in 1962. Bev passed away peacefully surrounded by family at the South Okanagan General Hospital in Oliver.

Bev was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Frank, in 2004. She is survived by her two daughters, Lyrae Lehtonen (Leo) and Kareen Stanich (Doyle Allpress); three granddaughters, Caitlyn Atkinson (Jim), Teryn Parker (Brad) and Kelsey LePard; four great-grandchildren, Hannah, Amelia, Lincoln and Becca; five step-grandchildren, Cheryl, Mike, Shaun, Dustin (Beverly) and Corey (Darlene); five step-great-grandchildren, Wyatt, Weston, Abigail, Brody and Ryan; and many cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Bev was an avid cook, gardener and crafter who loved to share her baked goods, fruits, vegetables, canning, jams and crafts with all her friends and family. You could stop by her home anytime for coffee and a muffin, if you were sick or shut-in some baking would magically appear on your doorstep and it was a treasure to receive one of her hand-made cards. In 2008, Bev won the Miracle Grow national contest for in-ground gardens.

Most of all Bev enjoyed being a volunteer. She truly believed in community spirit and was a member of the Nicola Valley Women’s Institute from 1959 until 2016 when it had to fold, the Patricia Rebekah Lodge #33 from 1962 to present and the Merritt Senior Citizens Association. Bev was the Lifeline Coordinator in Merritt for 12 years and participated in many other charitable activities that contributed to downtown beautification, the Red Cross loan cupboard, Fall Fair Society, the hospital, etc. In 1992 Bev was honoured as Merritt Citizen of the Year.

The family want to acknowledge the wonderful care provided over the years by Dr. Vandermerwe and Dr. Goetz and give special thanks to Dr. McIntyre and all the staff at SOGH who cared for Bev in her final days. A Celebration of Life and urn interment will take place in Merritt at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made in memory of Bev to the Parkinson Society British Columbia at https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/donate/

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com