Nelda Christine Harker, 89, of the Columbia Valley, British Columbia, passed away on September 23, 2026 with family by her side. She is survived by her youngest sister, Judith Starkes and her husband Leroy, and her two sisters-in-law Barbara Harker and Marlene Harker. She was predeceased by her wife, Beverley Paulfrey; parents, Edward and Evelyn Harker; her brothers Wayne (Millie), Edwin, Lloyd (June), Jack and Doug Harker; and her sister Jean (Hugh) Robertson. Nelda grew up with prairie roots in Lewvan, Saskatchewan.

With five older brothers to keep up with, she became an athlete almost by default, and her love of sport stayed with her for life. She was an exceptional ball player with Regina Merchants in the 50’s as well as an avid curler, proud ladies’ golf champion and, in a field few women entered at the time, a men’s baseball umpire too. Nelda spent most of her adult life in Alberta, where she devoted her career to caring for children as a pediatric nurse at the Foothills Hospital in Calgary, and finally the Alberta Children’s Hospital before she retired. Prior to moving to Alberta, she nursed at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto.

In retirement, Nelda moved to Fairmont Hot Springs, where golf became her passion and a small business for her. For many years she owned and ran TLC Golf Club Repair. Nelda and Bev loved to travel but also gave back to their community as nurses of the valley and members of the local Lions Club. Nelda loved telling jokes and could always be counted on for a laugh. Above all, she was a loving daughter, sister and very proud auntie who adored her nieces and nephews and their children and grandchildren.

Nelda’s family will hold a private interment at Fairmont Evergreen Cemetery where she will rest in peace beside her wife. A memorial golf tournament and celebration of life will be held at a future date in 2027.

Thank you to Columbia Gardens Village staff and Dr. Edward Schaffer for their kind care over the last 3 years. In lieu of flowers, donations in Nelda’s memory may be made to the Invermere Health Care Auxiliary Society, 1229 7th Ave, Invermere, BC V0A 1K0, or online at canadahelps.org. Nelda will be greatly missed by her friends and family.

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