Obituary of Arthur Herbert George Delage

1937 - 2010

It is with great sorrow and sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father and brother on September 17, 2010, at his home in Cranbrook, from asbestos related lung cancer.

Art was born September 23, 1937 in Winnipeg, Manitoba to parents Clifford and Ruth. He was raised on a farm in Arborfield, Saskatchewan until 1942 when the family moved to Smithers, British Columbia. Growing up in Smithers, a real love of the outdoors was cultivated, with many hunting and fishing trips to Babine Lake to hone these crafts. In addition to the outdoors, a passion for curling and playing hockey flourished in the winter months.

Art joined the Navy in 1955, and spent the next 5 years aboard the ships H.M.C.S., Assiniboine, Stettler, Crescent and Ontario, exploring the Far East and Hawaii. Leaving the Navy in 1960, Art then worked as a heavy duty mechanic on the D.E.W. line, in logging camps, and with Johnston Terminals in Vancouver, until a new job with BC Hydro necessitated a move to Prince Rupert in 1966. Art started with Hydro as a diesel generation operator and then became a wireman/electrician. While in Prince Rupert, Clifford was born (1967) as was Joanne (1970). After many good times, the family left the rain, and moved to Cranbrook in 1975. The next 35 years were spent exploring the backcountry of the East Kootenays and forming friendships that would last a lifetime. It was during this time that Art discovered Whitetail Lake, where many a fish was caught, and many a story was told around the campfire with family and good friends.After Art retired from BC Hydro in 1997 he could rarely be found at home. He was always at the lake, meeting other snowbirds in Laughlin, or was somewhere in between.

Art is survived by his loving sister Judy (Michael), his two children Cliff and Joanne (Ron), their mother Annie, and loyal fishing buddy Keta.

There will be no formal service by request, although friends are welcome to join the family during an open house between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm on September 25, 2010 at Art's home.

A Celebration of Life will take place late May 2011 at Whitetail Lake.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, a donation is made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 19 - 9th Avenue South, Cranbrook, British Columbia, V1C 2L9.

The family would also like to extend a special Thank You to Dr. Kevin McIver and his amazing care and kindness throughout this difficult process.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com