We regret to announce the passing of Frances Byrl Fennell on December 5, 2009 in Vernon Jubilee Hospital with Marilynne Calver (niece) at her side. Frances was born March 11, 1921 in Kamloops, daughter of George and Margaret Fennell, and was raised on the family ranch in Chu Chua, BC. She is survived by her sisters June Blackwell and Winnie Pigeon of Kamloops and her brother Norman (Bud) Fennell (Grace) of Chu Chua. Frances also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her siblings Marston, Lydia, Charlie, Sandy, Mary and Ida. Frances was a veteran who served overseas with the Canadian Air Force during WWII. She had a 30-year career with Employment and Immigration in Vancouver. Upon retirement she relocated to Barriere, later moving to Kamloops and then to Vernon.
Frances had a great love for the Arts and enjoyed participating in dancing including Ballroom, Tap, Clog and Round. Frances was successful in playwriting by having a play performed by a theatre group in Kamloops. She loved children and encouraged and financially supported their learning in the Arts. For many years she volunteered and advocated successfully for causes in the communities where she lived. Many immigrants benefited from her English as a Second Language classes. Frances had a passion for walking and was a familiar figure strolling around town every day, rain or shine. She will be remembered as a proud and patriotic Canadian and a kind and generous soul.
Frances’ ashes will be buried at Chu Chua cemetery at a later date. Memorial donations in Frances’s memory can be made to the Alzheimers Society of BC or in support of any local Arts organization. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via email; vernon@pafs.net. Arrangements entrusted to PERSONAL ALTERNATIVE FUNERAL SERVICES, (Vernon/North Okanagan 250-558-0866)