Beattrice Evelyn Ryckman (nee Embree)
January 14, 1931 ~ June 29, 2011
Bea Ryckman (nee Embree) passed away June 29, 2011 at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary AB at the age of 80 years after a short illness, with family by her side.
Bea was born January 14, 1931 in Cranbrook, BC. She was the daughter of Benjamin and Jennie Embree and the oldest of five siblings. Her elementary years were spent in Wardner BC. After the passing of her father, they moved to Creston where she attended and graduated from Creston Valley High. This is where she met Fred Ryckman and the two were married June 18, 1955. They had two sons, Bill born in Kimberley and Jim born in Creston.
Bea showed great love for her husband and two sons and adored her grandchildren. She enjoyed many friends, going to her "Class of 49" luncheons which were always a highlight of the month and coffee with the girls at Rotacrest Hall. She loved her extended telephone conversations with her family and friends. Her exceptional strength, courage and uncanny humour always showed.
Bea enjoyed her work at the Creston Review, Kimberley News and Creston Valley Advance. Having Bea as your tour guide at the Creston Museum was great fun. Bea enjoyed her 5 pin bowling as well. At home she always enjoyed crocheting, and was a puzzle book fan.
Bea was predeceased by her husband Fred Ryckman (2009) and her parents Benjamin and Jennie Embree and brother-in-law Robert Audette, all forever and always lovingly remembered.
For all who knew Bea, you know there will only be "One Bea", that uncanny humour, that quick wit, her heart of gold with a splash of stubborn Swede. Her strength of character and free soul lives on with her sons and grandchildren.
She will always and forever be lovingly remembered by her sons, Bill (Jackie), Jim (Jacquie-Anne), grandchildren Gillian, Dione, Jordan, Marielle, Jenna and MacIntosh, sister Pat Audette, brother Dale (Emily) Embree, sister Carol Currie, sister Alice-Faye (Jim) Lines and sister-in-law Phyllis Ryckman, as well as many nieces, nephews and family.
Bea has given so much in many special ways, taking time to talk or give a helping hand. Her thoughtfulness and love will be dearly treasured and forever in our hearts. She will be missed by all near and far and by many friends and family.
Our family would like to extend our utmost gratitude and love to all in Calgary who were there for Bea.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Monday July 11, 2011 at 2 p.m. at Trinity United Church with Pastor Harry Haberstock officiating.
A private Family Interment of Ashes to take place at Forest Lawn Cemetery prior to the Service.
Friends wishing to make a memorial contribution may do so to TAPS, P.O. Box 187, Creston, BC VOB 1G0. Phone (250)428-5585.