A resident of British Colombia for 26 years, Albert Whittaker, better known as Bert or Al, passed away suddenly at his home in Quatsino, B.C. on January 8, 2015. He was 75.
Bert was born in Williamsburg Township, on March 17, 1939, to his parents Lawrence and Edith Whittaker (nee Black).
He attended Colquhoun Pubic School and Chesterville High School. Following school, Bert worked for a brief time in Iroquois during the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway.
In the late 50’s, the Canadian Armed Forces drew his attention and focus. He joined the Army and started his training as an auto mechanic. Following basic training in Kingston, Ontario, he found his first posting in Calgary and was introduced to the Western way of life.
After a few years in Calgary, Bert was posted to Egypt, where he spent a year serving his country as a peacekeeper. This was an experience not soon to be forgotten. While on leave, he had the, once in a lifetime, opportunity of visiting the Holy Land.
Upon his return to Calgary, Bert left the Army, and put his learned trade into practice. His extensive knowledge in auto mechanics drove him to create his own start-up company, Specialized Services Ltd. which involved work in the oil industry.
While Bert was living and working in Alberta, he often spent vacation time on Vancouver Island. On one of those vacations he was introduce to a small community on the northern most tip of the island called Quatsino. His love for this beautiful part of the country led him to eventually retire there.
Albert lived his life as only he could: Independently and as a dedicated friend to those who were fortunate enough to get to know him. He was passionate to a fault when it came to anything in the Western Canada.
Bert is survive by his brother Gordon Whittaker (Mary) of Iroquois. He will be fondly remembered by his niece Catherine Van Vliet (Larry) of Kemptville, and his nephew Michael Whittaker (Vanessa) of Toronto.
He is also survived by his great-niece Amelia, his great-nephews William, Owen, James and by several cousins.
Friends called at the Marsden and McLaughlin Funeral Home, Williamsburg, on Tuesday, January 20th from 9 a.m. until time of the funeral at 11 a.m. with Rev. Valerie Vande Wiele officiating. Interment followed at Maple Ridge Cemetery, Chesterville.
Pallbearers were Dale Whitteker, Jack Barkley, Gordon Beckstead, Michael Whittaker, David Lapier and Lyal Kehoe.
Donations to the South Dundas Food Bank would be gratefully acknowledged by the family. Online condolences may be made at marsdenmclaughlin.com.
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