COLLINGS, Bryce Edward July 3, 1926 to April 23, 2009, beloved husband, father, and grandfather. Bryce was born in Victoria, BC, and fulfilled his boyhood dream of flight, living an Air Force life of service in Canada and abroad. Bryce saw all parts of the world flying, navigating and teaching flight school. The young family first retired back to Victoria, BC in 1972 where Bryce continued his work in various capacities of government service. He will be greatly missed by his devoted wife Irene of fifty six years, daughter Aurelie (Neil), daughter Aileen (Zbigniew) and son Kevin (Tina), grandchildren Claire (Aurelie), Ethan and Philip (Aileen), Eva, Eila and Emmett (Kevin). Bryce was predeceased by his parents Carl and Edith and his sister Noreen. He is also survived by his dear sister’s daughters, Carlana, Sharon, Kathy and Susan, and many other nieces and nephews. Bryce was known for his keen wit and that special twinkle in his eye wherever there was fun to be had. A memorial service will be held in the chapel at McCall’s Funeral Home, Victoria, BC, on Tuesday April 28th at 2:30 pm. Reception for Bryce will follow at McCall’s. The family asks that you remember Bryce each in your own way.
-
Henk and Ruth Oliemans
-
Dave Domes and Family Dear Irene,Kevin, Aileen, and Aurelie
We are thinking of you in this difficult time. Our thoughts and condolences are with you.
Dave , Laurie, Daniel and Krystyna Domes
-
Herb G. Huber My first meeting with Uncle Bryce was when I was a boy of about 10 or 12. It was at a wedding and a lot of my mother’s side of the family were staying at this hotel in Regina? I ventured into this room where the men folk were socializing with drinks in hand, and I was invited to join them. I was introduced to Uncle Bryce as my newest uncle. His friendly manor & engaging laugh helped me to decide I realy liked this new addition to the family.
Uncle Bryce could also take a prank as well. When Heather & I were married, in 1967, we spent part of our honey moon in Montreal & stayed with Aunt Irene & Uncle Bryce. Expo was on & Uncle Bryce arranged for me to park where he did when he was at work. I left a snarly note on his windshield complaining about the way his car was parked – signed it with a fake high ranking officer’s name. When we told Aunt Irene she confirmed that he was in fact quite steamed that someone had found fault with his parking ; and she was now concerned what he’d say to us when he found out I did it as a joke. Well, he must have taken it well because our relationship never suffered.
Beside his hospitable nature, I also appreciated he wise words.
Just a few days ago I was pruning an ornamental cherry tree in our yard & thought about the time he & Aunt Irene visited us in Sarnia. While doing a walk about we discussed how I should prune a fruit tree. Being from Sask. that wasn’t a skill I’d have learned at home. So here I was still doing what he had suggested & wondered if some day my younger relatives will appreciate a nugget or two of knowledge that I had shared with them.
-
Linda & Garth Smith Just read the obituary and it is so very true. I dearly remember that wit of Uncle Bryce’s and that twinkle in his eye. He was such a good host and quite the charmer too.
As a youngster, I was quite proud of the fact (and bragged about it)that my uncle was in the air force and in France no less.
I was very surprised that Uncle Bryce and Auntie Irene drove from Victoria to our first family wedding, and that was after he’d just had two hip replacements!! I seem to remember something about him not liking to fly — which we found quite humorous.
I feel blessed to have Aunt Irene & Uncle Bryce as my god parents.
Lots of love ‘n hugs,
Linda
Dear Irene, Kevin, Aileen and Aurelle
Our condolences at this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. We remember with fondness the happy times we have spent with you and Bryce.
Much love,
Ruth and Henk