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Francis Joseph DeNeef

May 15, 2005

Francis Joseph DeNeef passed away on May 15, 2005, at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital in Clearwater, B.C., with his family by his side. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 52 years Marina, children Darlene (Bruce) Lewis, Teresa (Joe) Pelton, Margaret (Mike) Slute, Frank, Mary (Doug) Penner, Kathy (Gary) Braaten, grandchildren Steven, Lynn, Penny, Vince, Terry James, Marina, Kira, Lindsey, Shanli, Kristi, Corey, Chelsea, Alisha, adopted son Lyle (Gail) Cartier, Ryan and Jen, step-grandchildren Danny, Julie, Debbie Pelton, Scott and Katie Slute as well as 13 great-grandchildren and nine great step grandchildren, as well as sister Maureen (Jack) Guile and brother Michael.

He was predeceased by his parents Frank Albert and Mary Harton DeNeef, his sister Betty Harris, brothers Joseph R. and Gerald C. DeNeef, brother-in-law Raymond W. Harris and daughter Carole Marie DeNeef.

At the time of his death, he was a member of the Loyal Order of Moose, a lifetime member of UTU, a member of the Canadian Snowbirds Association and CN Pensioners' Association.

To some, ordinary could mean plain and simple, when related to our Dad, ordinary took a whole different meaning, it meant the ability to make life easy and simple. No frills, just an unconditional love of his family and friends.

Dad cherished his family and friendships. He was a devoted family man who lived life to the fullest.

For 35 years dad worked as a conductor for the CNR. After retiring in 1985, Mom and Dad became snowbirds enjoying their winters in Arizona. Upon their return home each year, the summers were filled with camping, fishing and gardening. The pride and joys of Dad's life were his grandchildren and his garden.

Dad loved country music. We spent many years listening to him play and sing,

Dad, you gave us life, you gave us love.

Now go forth and soar like an eagle 'Pops.'

God has called home a proud man and a proud Canadian.

We love you.

A private inurnment took place at Riverview Cemetery, for the immediate family only, on Saturday, May 21, 2005, followed by a Celebration of Frank's life at the DeNeef residence at 1 p.m., 2271 Pumping Station Road.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 685 Victoria Street, Kamloops, BC, V2C 2B3.

You suffered much, murmured not

We watched you day by day;

And prayed that your dear life,

Would not be taken away.

But when we saw you sleeping,

So peaceful, free from pain,

We could not wish you back,

To suffer that again.

To you who have a Dad,

Cherish him with care;

You will never know the heartache

Till you see his empty chair.

Cremation arrangement entrusted to Personal Alternative Funeral Services, 1-866-664-9646



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