June 20, 1933 – February 26, 2008 June Witte
June Witte of Kamloops, BC went home with the angels, February 26, 2008.
Born Juanita June Harris on June 20, 1933, in North Vancouver, B.C., June was predeceased by her first husband Doug Mackenzie (1972), son Lyle Mackenzie (1991), parents Charles and Hazel Harris, sisters Sheila Foisy (1979) and Audrey Kerslake (1999), brothers Fred Harris (1995) and Pat Harris (2003).
June is survived by her devoted and loving husband, Mienhart, of 30 years who gave so much of himself in caring for her. Her children Terry (Merv) Gorley of Barriere, B.C., Les (Wanda) Mackenzie of Falkland, B.C., Sherri Vandenbrink of Grand Prairie, AB, two step daughters, Julie Boyko (Jamie) and Vanessa Witte, both of Edmonton, AB, and daughter-in-law Shelley Mackenzie of Clearwater, B.C. Her brothers Gerry (Rochelle) Harris of Baynes Lake, BC and Bill (Diana) Harris of Campbell River, B.C., Rod (Arlene) Harris of Rocky Mountain House, AB. Her sister Marlene (Art) Nesbitt of Barriere, B.C. Six grandchildren, two step grandsons, five great grandchildren and one step great grandson and one step great great granddaughter and numerous nieces and nephews to whom she was a favorite aunt. She also leaves to cherish her memory her mother-in-law and special “Mom” Ada Mackenzie of Barriere, B.C.
June was a dialysis patient for almost 10 years. Despite the limitations of her rigid schedule she lived life to the fullest. She was a survivor doing whatever was required of her to maintain her health to the best of her ability. She was an inspiration for all who knew her and the health issues that plagued so much of her life. For many years she stubbornly refused to give up, however she knew it was time when her body said, “No more.”
Mom loved to bake, have family gatherings and playing cards, especially Canasta. You could count on a game to be full of fun and laughter! She loved visiting friends and although she didn’t do as much in recent years her good friends were always fondly remembered.
Mom died the way she lived, with dignity and grace.
We are forever grateful to you for enriching our lives. Rest in Peace, Mom.
The family extends their deepest gratitude to Dr Burris, Dr Wijeyesinghe, Dr. Michaud, the RIH Renal Unit nurses, ICU, and the nurses on 3 West. A special thank you to Corby for his caring, understanding and compassion.
A tea was held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Barriere, B.C., on Saturday, March 1, 2008, to celebrate June’s life. In lieu of flowers a donation in June’s name to the Royal Inland Hospital Renal Unit would be greatly appreciated.
Cremation is entrusted to the North Thompson Funeral Services, Barriere, BC, 250-672-1999