Obituary of Harry James Byford

1926 - 2011

It is with deep sorrow that the family of Harry James Byford announces his peaceful passing on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 in Cranbrook, British Columbia at 84 years of age.

Bus was born on August 16, 1926 in Vancouver, British Columbia at St. Paul's hospital.

He was raised at 3rd and Main in Vancouver. Bus attended Mount Pleasant Public School. Many of his schoolmates from those days remained his life-long friends across the many miles and years. Bus excelled in sports, winning the Mann Cup with the Vancouver Burrards Lacrosse Club in 1949. He married Ruby in 1955 and their 4 boys were born while they lived in their first house in Coquitlam. They moved to Cranbrook in 1969. Both Bus and Ruby were active golfers, making many friends along the way. After Ruby passed away in 1984, Bus met Charlotte and they spent many happy years together. Bus's last couple of years were spent at Joseph Creek Village and care home where he passed away.

The family wishes to thank Dr. Kevin McIver and Dr. Glen McIver for the excellent care they provided to Bus over the years. He thought very highly of you both. We also wish to thank the staff at Joseph Creek. They provided outstanding care and love to Bus during his time there.

Bus is survived by his four boys: Steve (Diane), Doug, Randy and Geoff (Jackie), his seven cherished grand-daughters: Janna (Kelsey), Jenny, Abby, Heather, Alyson, Nicole and Andrea, his sister Bev, many nieces and nephews and his second wife (estranged), Charlotte. He was predeceased by his first wife Ruby Marion Byford, daughter-in-law Cheryl Byford (nee Sternig) and Bus's three brothers Robert, Jack and George.

The family is intending to hold an open house celebration of Bus's life at Randy's home in Mayook at 2:00 pm on August 14th, 2011. All friends and family are welcome. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in honour of Bus may do so to: The Salvation Army, 533 - Slater Road NW, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 4Y5 or the Canadian Cancer Society, 19 - 9th Avenue South, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 2L9.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com