(nee Retzer)
1921 – 2017

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Louise Roche at the age of 95 on Tuesday, July 18, 2017 at the Kimberley Special Care Home “The Pines” with her family by her side.

Louise was born on the family farm in Lumsden, SK in 1921. The oldest of four kids, she had three younger brothers, Herb, Bob and Max. Louise attended a country school until grade 10 and she worked as a caregiver for new born babies and the elderly.

In 1940 Louise moved to Fernie, BC with her favourite Aunt and worked at the local hospital as an aide. It was in Fernie where Louise met the love of her life, Don, at a Valentine’s Day dance. Don and Louise were married on Christmas Day in 1943 and moved to Kimberley in 1946. They made their home on 7th Avenue in Townsite and had two children, Donna and Sonny. Louise and Don were married for fifty-five years at the time of Don’s passing in November 1998.

Louise worked for the Bay/Fields in the ladies wear department for thirty years, hence her love of fashion. She had a great sense of humour and an infectious laugh. She formed many dear friends and enjoyed the good times while there. She was a charter member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for over fifty years. Louise served in various offices from Secretary to President. Louise was also a member of the Kimberley United Church and loved the churches family events, spending time with friends and enjoyed all occasions and celebrations.

Louise loved country music, and travelled to see some of her favourite artists. It would not be uncommon to hear her singing along with Alan Jackson or Charlie Pride. Louise travelled to England, Hawaii, Arizona, Nashville, Mexico, and had many trips to Vancouver, Toronto and Salmon Arm to visit her great grandchildren. Niagara Falls was always her bucket list destination and in 2007 she was able to see it while travelling across Canada via train with Donna.

Louise and Don were long-time residents of Kimberley and were truly proud of living in this great little town. They enjoyed the outdoors; camping and many good times were spent with family and friends around the campfire at Premiere Lake and White Swan.

Louise was very kind hearted always putting others before herself, but could also be quite determined when she put her mind to something – like when she decided she was going to buy herself a new car and get her driver’s licence for the first time in her life in her late sixties.

Louise was a loving and caring mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Family was very important to her and the pride she felt for her children and grandchildren was evident in her stories. All of her family loved coming to visit Grandma Weezie in Kimberley. While we will all miss her greatly, the presence of our mother and grandmother will live on strong though daughter Donna (Gabe) Sanche, son Sonny Roche, her five grandchildren Margie (Cris), Brian (Charlotte), Jeff (Shannon), Michael and Tanya (Patrick), her nine great grandchildren Ryan, Brock, Lauren, Cory, Ally, Sydney, Lindsay, Claire and Nathan.

The family wish to thank the staff of “The Pines” for the care and compassion shown to Mom over the years. Those wishing to remember Louise may do so with a donation to the Cominco Gardens Memorial Fund, c/o Faith Matthews, 99 – Howard Street, Kimberley, British Columbia, V1A 2G4.

A celebration of Louise’s life will be held at a later date.

www.mcphersonfh.com