It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our mother Marilyn Harfield on April 16th at the age of 62. She is survived by her mother Joyce Butler, daughters Samantha (Dwayne) Braaten and Toni Harfield, and grandchildren Damian and Sophia Braaten, and Taylor Harfield-Dahl.
Marilyn was born in Oregon, USA and grew up in Delta, BC. After graduating from high school she went on a year long trip to Australia with two of her girlfriends. It was during this time that she met her future husband, Ernie Harfield. They were married in Delta in December of 1968. Samantha was born in September of 1970 and Toni in January of 1972. The Harfield family lived in White Rock until 1975 when they bought a business in Clearwater, BC, called The Farmer’s Market and Garden Center. Marilyn continued to live in Clearwater until 1988.
Although she spent many years living in the Okanagan, Marilyn always considered Clearwater her home. She raised us girls there and worked very hard at making our family business a success. Marilyn completed a Floristry Design certificate program at Douglas College in 1982 becoming the first trained florist in Clearwater and opened her flower shop within the Farmer’s Market.
Marilyn will be remembered for her generosity of time in the community. She volunteered for many years for the Raft Mountain Figure Skating club sewing costumes for skaters at carnivals and fundraising for the skating club through bingos and No Host Bazaars. Marilyn was also an integral part of the Curling Club: taking part through playing the sport, volunteering, and performing many skits with other club members for entertainment at bonspiels. She thoroughly enjoyed being part of the community and giving of herself whenever needed. Marilyn always went out of her way to help anyone that came into our store, especially those who were in need. She was a very kind and generous woman.
Our mother loved us and her grandchildren with all of her heart. She raised us to be strong and independent women, and caring and loving mothers. We are very thankful for the years that she gave herself fully to us. We miss her dearly and will continue to for the rest of our lives. Mom, now you have peace.
Service to be held on Saturday, May 23, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. at the Clearwater Christian Church, 11 Lodge Drive. Reception to follow at the Elks Hall.