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Donald Somerville
February 16, 1928 - November 18, 2016
Tribute
Donald Chester Somerville passed away on Friday, November 18 in Oliver. He was 88 years of age. In the days leading up to his death, he was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
He was predeceased by his wife, Audrye (2009); his Father, Chester; his mother, Minnie; brothers, Frank and Patrick and his great-granddaughter Chloe.
He is survived by his six children: Robert Somerville (Teresa), Chris Norton (Greg), Patrick Somerville (Margie), Pamela Minor, Dee Petersen and Elizabeth Richens. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, 8 nephews and nieces and his sister-in-law Kay Gilders.
Don grew up in the Vancouver area and began his career at the Vancouver Sun. There he met his future wife, Audrye Toombs and they were married in 1949. In 1959 he purchased the Oliver Chronicle and later two other small Okanagan papers and ran two print shops. He worked tirelessly at his craft, working in his dark room to develop pictures, writing editorials, guiding his staff or trying to get that darn printing press and linotype to work. He was also very involved in his community.
He had many other things to occupy his time. An enormous backyard to keep up, a houseful of children and two fruit orchards. His wife filled the blackboard with renovations that were required. He was a very busy man until he retired in 1986. Then he slowed right down but still enjoyed reading the Vancouver Sun cover to cover and doing crossword puzzles, puttering in the yard, caring for the swimming pool, playing crib with his kids and enjoying many family gatherings.
His very favourite place was his wonderful home. He truly loved it there. It was his Castle and he was the King. He was a man of great integrity and a strong work ethic. He was greatly respected in his community and by those who loved him so very much.
He was our strength, our provider, our hero.
Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 26th at the Elks Hall in Oliver. Reception to follow.
Condolences
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From: Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service Staff
Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service Staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Stewart Detjen
Relation: Relationship - How did you know the deceased?
As a severely underpaid radio reporter in the early 70s I had the great fortune to cover civic and school board meetings with Don. Even though I was only a cub reporter He was unfailingly generous with his time and advise. Don was the consummate newspaper man serving his community.
From: Sandra Smith
Relation: Classmate of Pam's
I had a tremendous amount of respect for Mr. Somerville, and the newspaper he produced. He also produced some wonderful offspring.
From: Marilyn Mathieson
Relation: He was our Daughter's father-in-law
Allan and I wish to send our sincerest condolences to the Somerville family. We first met Don in the late 1960’s. Don was always a man of good humor and was very kind.
From: Jaimie Nielson and Linda Thompson Nielson
Relation: Granddaughter Rebecca's inlaws
To all of the Somerville family, We send our thoughts and prayers to all of you. Truly the King of the Castle as we saw on visits in recent years to his home. Hold tight to the memories you have and the great lessons he taught you. He will be missed dearly.
Jaimie Nielson and Linda Thompson Nielson
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
Date & Time:
November 26, 2016
Beginning at 2:00pm
Location:
Oliver Elks Hall
477 Bank Avenue
Oliver, BC Canada
Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 26th at the Elks Hall in Oliver. Reception to follow.
477 Bank Avenue
Oliver, BC Canada
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
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Flower Fantasy Flowers & Gifts Inc.
6049 Main Street, Oliver, BC
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Local: (250) 498-0088 Toll free: (844) 498-0088
Flowers on Main & Reis Boutique
5859 Main Street, Oliver, BC
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Local: (778) 439-2270 Toll free: (800) 665-9983
Gems and Stems at Eastside
6496 Park Drive, Oliver, BC
https://gemsandstems.com/
(250) 826-0438
Polka Dot Door Floral Design Boutique
8522 Main Street, Osoyoos, BC
https://www.polkadotdoor.net/
(250) 495-2226
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