Obituary of Grace Elizabeth Gill

Grace passed away peacefully on April 14, 2023 with her family at her side. She was born in Cranbrook as the daughter of Hugh and Margaret Brock. Hugh was a CPR pioneer who drove the first train into Cranbrook in 1898.

Grace married Norman Gill of Kimberley in 1948. They had two children, Glen, born in 1950 and Beaven born three years later.

Grace received her schooling in Cranbrook and graduated from Central High School in 1944. She went to Victoria Normal School where she trained to become a teacher. After finishing her education she taught students from kindergarten to high school in Fernie, Michel-Natal, and Sparwood.

Grace had a great love of her Catholic faith. She was a member of the Catholic Women’s League since 1946, a total of 77 years. Grace taught catechism, played the piano at church and took communion to the sick and elderly.

Music was an important and enjoyable part of her life. She played the piano at school, church, weddings and just for pleasure. Reading books, needlework and sewing were hobbies she loved.

Giving back to her community was important to her. She served as an alderman on the Fernie city Council, volunteered at the public library, served on the Board of Directors for the Tom Uphill Home and was a member of the Retired Teachers Association.

Having her family with her was one of her true joys. Time spent with her loved ones was always special to her.

Grace had many dear friends with whom she shared enjoyable times. She truly cherished their love and companionship.

She was predeceased by her husband Norman and her sister Olive Gordon. Grace is survived by her son Glen, his wife Twyla and son Brent, (Grace’s only grandchild), her daughter Beaven and her partner Dawnna of North Vancouver.

Grace has nephews (Jim, Pat, and Sean Gordon) and nieces (Kay Manifold and BJ Gordon) all of whom are residents of the Vancouver area.

A funeral mass for Grace will be celebrated at 1:00pm April 28, 2023 at Christ the Servant Church in Cranbrook (1100 14^th Avenue South). There will be a reception to follow in the church hall.

Grace’s family would like to thank the staff at Kootenay Street Village for their wonderful care and love and all the fine doctors involved with Grace’s health and well-being.