Henry BELL-IRVING

BELL-IRVING _ Henry Pybus ("Budge"), Coov Lisims (Nishga'a - "The Rock"), La La Ka Ne Ge (Cape Mudge - "You have done so much") died peacefully on Saturday, September 21, 2002 at the age of 89. Born in Vancouver on 21st January 1913 to one of the city's first pioneer families, Budge lived his life to the fullest in accordance with his personal motto "Rien impossible." He attended Lord Roberts and Shawnigan Lake School before moving to Scotland to complete his schooling at Loretto in Musselburgh. After returning to Canada, he studied commerce at the University of British Columbia where he met his beloved Nancy Symes. He joined the Seaforth Highlanders of Canada as a Lieutenant in 1932 and, after marrying Nancy in 1937, was among the first Canadians to be deployed overseas in 1939. Budge was active in the military for 57 years. During WWII he rose rapidly through the ranks, commanding both the Seaforths and the Loyal Edmonton Regiment before his promotion to Brigadier. He had the privilege of commanding the 10th Canadian Infantry Brigade during the liberation of Holland. Upon his return home he continued to serve his Regiment in various capacities until receiving his honourable discharge in 1989. Budge's post-war civilian career began with toy sales in Montreal, after which he returned to Vancouver to join Bell-Irving Insurance Agencies. In the mid 1950's he formed a separate real estate company, Bell-Irving Realty, and distinguished himself by collaborating with other colleagues to establish industry licensing and education standards. Budge sold the company in 1972 but remained involved until 1978 when he made the decision to retire. His retirement was postponed when he accepted Prime Minister Trudeau's appointment as British Columbia's 23rd Lieutenant-Governor, a role that both he and Nancy undertook with grace and dignity. Their time at Government House was marked, amongst other things, by a genuine interest in the people of British Columbia and the warm welcome they received from the many First Nations throughout the province. Budge's dedication to public and community service was evidenced by his numerous affiliations: Vancouver Real Estate Board, Canadian Real Estate Association, Vancouver Board of Trade, Vancouver Children's Hospital, National and Provincial Council of the Boy Scouts of Canada, St. John Ambulance (British Columbia and Yukon), B.C. Corps of Commissionaires, Seymour Demonstration Forest Committee, The Steelhead Society of British Columbia and The Disabled Sailing Association of British Columbia to name just a few. Besides being an avid fly fisherman, Budge spent his free time reading, listening to music, attending theatre and opera, traveling and engaging in lively debate with anybody who would take him on, but Pasley Island and family were two constants that he held most dear. Predeceased by Nancy (1997), his wife of 60 years and Donald (1992), his youngest son, Budge will be most lovingly remembered by his wife, Pamela; sisters, Ruth and Nancy; sons, Hal and Roderick (Alison); daughter-in-law Ellen; grandchildren, Miriam, David, Stephen, Neil, Ali and Charlotte and his stepchildren Nick and Rachel. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to Dr. Mike Davidson and the staff of Lions Gate Hospital for their kindness and compassion. A memorial service will be held at Christ Church Cathedral, 690 Burrard Street, Vancouver on Thursday, October 3rd, at 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations to the charity of your choice would be appreciated. HOLLYBURN FUNERAL HOME 604-922-1221