Longtime Clearwater resident Lawrence Bucknell passed away on August 1, 2011 at Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital, after a lengthy illness. He was 78 years of age. Lawrence was born in North Vancouver, BC on December 12, 1932. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Barbara of Clearwater, BC; sister Jessie Elizabeth "Betty" Handy of Clearwater; and brother Howard (Phyllis) Bucknell of Clearwater; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Lawrence was predeceased by his parents, William and Sarah (nee James) Bucknell, and by his siblings Wilfred, John, Mabel, Fred and Hannah.
Lawrence overcame an early childhood illness to serve Canada in the War in Korea. Following the war, he met Barbara and they were married one week later. Lawrence was a member of the Royal Canadian Legion for a period of time, as well as the Elks' Club. He enjoyed working at the beer gardens there. Lawrence also loved to fish at Star Lake and at the many other lakes in the valley, and he enjoyed hunting. In later years, Lawrence spent many hours happily working on jigsaw puzzles and crossword puzzles, and he enjoyed watching movies (especially old style westerns) on television.
Lawrence's wish was to be cremated. A Memorial Service for Lawrence Bucknell will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 12, 2011 at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 259, Clearwater, BC, followed by a graveside committal service and then a reception back at the Legion. Donations in memory of Lawrence Bucknell to the Dr. Helmcken Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Box 1078 RR1, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N0 would be appreciated. Final arrangements entrusted to North Thompson Funeral Services, Box 2404 RR2, Clearwater, BC, V0E 1N0, telephone 250-674-3030.