It was a moving experience for Bev Anderson to bid farewell to her job as the secretary at Barriere Elementary when friends and colleagues, both past and present, gathered to celebrate their favorite person during an afternoon tea on Dec. 9 at the School. A school assembly was also planned for Dec. 17 so the students could also say goodbye.
Bev served eight years as secretary at Barriere Secondary School, and the past 12 years in that position at the Elementary School.
“I love my job and it is hard to leave,” said Bev, “But I decided it is time for me to be more with my family now.”
Bev was much more than a secretary, she was a friend, someone to go to for help, and she was always ready to get things done whatever the task might be; she will be missed by her co-workers, the students, and their parents.
Bev says she worked with five school principals over the years; and she was surprised to find each one of them at her farewell party, along with former and present staff members and friends.
They shared some great memories, and even stories of problems in everyday life at the school. Problems that were often solved with the hands-on approach of their ‘person of all trades’ Mrs. Anderson.
They spoke of the exciting times when students and staff were involved in organizing special events, and yes Bev was right in there, with good humour, getting everybody to do their part.
There were so many good memories to share with everybody, and the sound of laughter and lively conversation reflected the sincere appreciation those in attendance held for Bev.
Formality was never a strong point with Bev, so true to form, she did not give a formal farewell speech, but demonstrated with great humour what she intended to be and do in the future by dressing up for the occassion. She put on a green shirt to show her intentions to ‘go green’, donning the style of dress when she met her husband Bobby, and continued to add fun items right to the paddle in hand and the pack on her back; telling all that she will be out there, hopefully with her grandkids, hiking and paddling now that she will have time to do so.
There were no formal speeches from Bev’s co-workers; instead everyone participated in a skit, to the beat of ‘It Was The Night Before Christmas’. Bev too, was included; sitting among them on a beautiful hand made garden bench, a gift to her for retirement.
Each read a verse, telling about how special she had been in so many ways, and saying how sad they were that she was leaving; who could ever replace her, and would that person do all those special things?
“I did the extra things because you are worth it and I will miss you all very much,” said Bev in her goodbyes.