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Lois Anne Gris (Ferguson)
August 31, 1936 - May 28, 2015
Tribute
In the early morning hours of Thursday, May 28, 2015, LOIS “ANNE” GRIS passed away peacefully at Joseph Creek Care Village in Cranbrook at the age of 78 years. Anne was born in Mission, BC on August 31, 1936 to Gordon and Millicent Ferguson.
Anne was an incredible musician and she loved to share her music with others. She taught piano for many years and touched the lives of so many with that talent. She graduated with highest honors from the Royal Conservatory of Music Canada becoming a gold medalist concert pianist. Both mom and dad enjoyed music. Dad taught at the Prince Charles Secondary School and when the school burned down, they were instrumental in setting up the Creston Concert Society, La Musica and the Creston Children’s Choir. Mom played for all the musicals in the drama department at the school. When Anne lived in Kamloops, she taught many students but one stood out for for her than the rest. This young student came from a poor family and in order to practice the piano, the family drew a cardboard drawing of the piano keyboard for her. When Anne left Kamloops, she didn’t want this young girl to lose the natural talent she had so she gave her a Baldwin upright piano so she could continue on with her training. This act sums up her love of music and her thought that everyone should be able to achieve their dreams through music. Mom will now be joining dad and be reunited once again to carry on their music.
Anne leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Nancy (Mike) Briggs; three grandchildren; Gordon (Brittany), Christopher and Brian (Melanie) Potyok and one great grandson; Jamison. Also left to mourn her are her step grandchildren; Cody Briggs and Patty (Shawn) Eckman and one great granddaughter, Jessie. Also her loving sister and childhood trouble maker, Freda (George) Bennett. She leaves many nieces, nephews, cousins and her special friends; Donna (Earl) Clay and her life-long friend Gaye Olfert. Anne was predeceased by her beloved husband, Chester; her sister Judy and her parents.
A private family graveside service will be held. Memorial donations may be made in Anne’s memory to the Canadian Cancer Society, 19 – 9th Ave. S., Cranbrook, BC V1C 2L9. Condolences may be left for the family at www.markmemorial.com.
A very special thank you to the RNs and RCAs in St. Marys’ pod of Joseph Creek Care Village for your kindness to mom while she resided there. A very special thank you to Dr. Witten for his attention and care for mom. It was appreciated more than words can say.
Condolences
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From: Mark Memorial Funeral Services Staff
Mark Memorial Funeral Services Staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: Linda Sears
Relation: cousin
Thank you, Anne, for teaching me to read music. Your gift has taken me on a long journey. I send my greatest sympathies to Nancy and her family at this time.
From: Aaron Vautour
Relation: Great Nephew
We all deeply feel the passing of auntie Ann. She was a kind, caring and compassionate women. We will all miss her very much. With lots of love from Aaron, Angie and family.
From: Steven Bennett
Relation: Nephew
To Cousin Nancy,
Remember the good, fun times, with your mom, as I will. All the best to you and yours. Cousin Steven & Family.
From: Ren & Gregor
Relation: Aunt
Mike,Nancy and Family.
Thinking of you all in these sad time, our thought and prayer go out to you all, Much Love Debbie and Renold and Family
From: Michelle Vautour
Relation: Great niece
I cherish the memories of going to Auntie Anne’s home and sitting with her at her baby grand piano, learning to play little songs. What a wonderful gift! Her jolly spirit and love for music was infectious. She is dearly missed. Rest easy Auntie Anne.
From: Tony Toews
Relation: Student of husband Chester
I was a student of your father Chester Gris in Kamloops B.C. in grades 9 and 10 in about 1974 or so. I’ve been trying to thank him in some way over the decades but was unable to until just now.
Your father was the person who inspired me to learn more about math and computers. And I’ve been working as a computer programmer and software developer all my adult life. You chose your parents well.
Service Schedule
Private service arrangements have been made.
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
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250.526.5689
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