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Thomas Fitzgerald "Jerry" Pirie

October 21, 2018

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November 15, 1938 - October 21, 2018
Jerry passed away peacefully at Swan Valley Lodge in Creston, BC on October 21, 2018.

Jerry was born and raised in Chilliwack, BC. He graduated from Chilliwack High School and then from U.B.C. with a degree in Agriculture. In the 1970's he backpacked around much of the world, and his experiences while crossing India defined the future direction of his life. Jerry came back to Canada an environmentalist, setting a personal example of how one can leave a small footprint on the planet. He lived a very simple life, growing much of his own food, and choosing to have few possessions. He devoted time to the "Save the Farmland" movement in Chilliwack, as well as to local and federal politics. His later years were spent in beautiful West Creston, which he adopted and loved. He dedicated himself tirelessly to both the West Creston Community Hall and West Creston Fire Protection Society.

He is survived by his sister Jean Cyrull, nephews Scott (Gabrielle) Higson, Robert Higson, niece Anna (Scott) Webb, grandnephews Kalen Snipper-Higson, Ian and Scott Lownie, and a large extended family of Cyrull's. His family will treasure their memories of his work ethic, humor, self-sacrifice, and courage to stand for what he believed to be right.

Family and friends would like to especially thank the many people who provided exceptional care for Jerry at Swan Valley Lodge, Crest View Village, and the Creston Valley Hospital, over the past many years; the staff and volunteers at the Creston Valley Public Library; as well as those who made possible the "Move to Improve" (Parkinson's) mobility and cognitive program.

Jerry will be remembered for his devotion to his family and friends, his dedication as a community volunteer, his generosity in supporting charitable organizations that he believed in, and for the sincerity with which he lived his life.

Memorial donations may be made in Jerry's memory to West Creston Fire Protection Society, 1348 West Creston Road, Creston BC, V0B 1G7 or to a charity of personal choice.