February 1, 2019
Beatrice Dorothy Stevenson (nee Eckardt) passed away peacefully on February 1st at the Rimbey and District Long Term Care Centre at the age of 94 years.
She was predeceased by her husband Melvin (Bub) in 1976; one grandson, John in 2012. 2 brothers, Clifford and Orval; one sister, Thelma.
Bea is survived by her daughter, Annette (Michael Boorman) of Rimbey and one son, Greg (Deborah) of Surrey. Bea also leaves to mourn 5 grandchildren, Kate, Jeff, Tim, Stacey and Carley; and 6 great-grandchildren, Kaeden, Rilyn, Matias, Dylan, Nevaeh and Brooklyn.
Bea was born in Rimbey in 1924 and completed school here prior to her enlistment in the army. As a CWAC her skill as a driver lead to her position as chauffeur for officer and transport truck driver.
In 1947 she married Melvin (Bub) Stevenson. After living a few years in Bluffton they made their home in Rimbey and never left.
Bea was a proud Rimbeyite, her grandparents being Ben and Jennie Rimbey, and was an enthusiastic participant in many town activities. She and Bub were a team, supporting the curling club, square dance group, United Church, welcoming newcomers to town, and the building of the golf course south of town and Open Creek Dam.
She always enjoyed competition. As a school girl she excelled in sports, playing basketball and hockey and participating in track and field. Bea was an avid bridge player and enjoyed the challenge of the game and the camaraderie of her fellow players.
Bea enjoyed young people, reading Robin Hood to neighbourhood kids on her front step on Saturday mornings (in the 50's), teaching many teens to drive leading Cubs, coaching high school basketball and always being ready to organize a game of "steal sticks".
She was energetic and liked to keep busy. In her later years she became an active member of the Legion, a driver for the Handivan society and a hospital volunteer.
Bea loved her family, was proud of their accomplishments and was generous in her support of their endeavours. Grandma Bea will be lovingly remembered for her humour, sharp wit, no-nonsense attitude and fun-loving spirit.
The family is very grateful to Dr. Nawrot, Dr. Burke and the staff of Rimbey's Extended Care Centre for their excellent and compassionate care during Bea's final years.
A celebration of Bea's life was held on Thursday February 7th at the Rimbey United Church with Rev. Margaret Lange officiating. A special thanks to those who attended the service or extended condolences. Thank you to the women of the United Church for the excellent lunch following the service.
Donations in memory of Bea may be made to Rimbey United Church or Rimbey Hospital and Care Centre.