Val passed away peacefully with family by his side while in Hospice. He is predeceased by his parents and his older brother, Murray. He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Jeanne, cherished daughters Meara and Brenna and sister Faye. Born in New Westminster, Val and his family travelled around BC due to his father’s career with the RCMP. They settled in Victoria when he was 12. He made Victoria his home. He attended UVic for both his undergrad and graduate degrees and was a biology loving scientist who was a marine biologist and forester. He worked for the Provincial Forest Service for the majority of his career and met Jeanne while working there. They were married in 1977, settled in Highlands and had two daughters. He enjoyed scuba diving, camping, supporting his children’s pursuits, playing golf, Ham radio and his favourite pets were his cats. He was one of Highlands’ greatest volunteers who gave whole heartedly to his community in roles such as volunteer firefighter, emergency coordinator, water conservationist and many other committees including incorporating the municipality of Highlands. His beliefs in conservation live on in his children. He recognizes the Wesanic tribe and is grateful to have lived on their beautiful land.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
The family would like to thank all the wonderful Esquimalt/Westshore VIHA workers for all their help with Val’s care. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Condolences to the family may be offered below:
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgarden.com
20 Responses
I was a grad student at the Bamfield Marine Station when I first met Val and we became friends and were roommates in Cabin 7. Pretty much every morning at about 7 he would shout ‘turning on the lights’ and dress to go diving. We shared many a ride to Victoria and back, with or without Opah, his cat, and occasionally with Hector, Yogi’s and Howard’s dog. About 1981 he got a Biometrician job at Forests, right along side my wife to be, Wendy. Good years of friendship past, with a notable reunion to Bamfield in 2011 with Jeanne and Wendy. Val was very attentive during Wendy’s illness.
Obviously I miss him and the world is a bit lonelier for me. My condolences to Jeanne, Meara and Brenna.
So sorry to hear Val passing away. I knew Val from my days with the BCFS Protection Branch and often
had great times and casual interaction with him during that time. I often referred to him as that gentle giant in the room. He was as big as his heart and will be surely missed by all that knew him.
My heartfelt condolences to all his family. Rest in peace big guy.
I was shocked to hear of Val’s passing. My husband Steve and I were neighbours in the Highlands quite a few years ago. What a wonderful family. I am so sorry to read this news. My husband, Steve, passed today of complications of ALS. Lots of wonderful memories with you in the Highlands. Love to Jeanne, Meara and Brenna.
Growing up next door to the Fletcher family, and spending time with them in their home, I am grateful for all the times Val was there for me over the years. From fixing my car, to offering his, lending me vinyl records, laughing at my leaving screen doors open, and availability to discuss the natural world, he was a strong and dependable figure in the Highlands community. He will be missed, and my heart is with Jeanne, Meara and Brenna. Wishing peace to Val, and his beautiful family.
Bob and Nancy Ferris
Our condolences to Jeanne, Meara and Brenna. I new Val from our time at the fire department, emergency program and knew him when he was with BCFS. He was one of the good guys.
dear Jeanne,Mera,Brenna
So sorry to hear of Val passed away. He was such a kind person . I know what the family is going through as I went through it 3 yrs in 2021 ,I did not know Val was sick and my heart goes out to the family GOD bless . Nancy Fletcher —(not a relative just the same last name)
I’m grateful to have known Val and to have grown up spending lots of time in the Highlands with the Fletcher family. I remember his quiet passion for marine biology (I remember a field trip exploring tide pools). He had a gentle respect and care for nature and the forest, which is why he was the perfect volunteer and advocate for the Highlands. Sending all my love to Brenna, Meara, and Jeanne. I hold the Fletcher family very dear to my heart! xo
It was a shock to hear of Val’s passing. I worked with Val in the BCFS for many years and came to know him has a kind, thoughtful colleague who was generous with his advice and assistance. His cup was always half full, seeing the humour in many of the stressful situations public servants often find themselves in and breaking the tension with laughter. He was a gentle soul taken far too soon from us.
My condolences to his family.
Dear Jeanne, Meara, Brenna,
So very sad to read that Val passed away. Lovely writeup in the newspaper. My heart goes out to you all. Jeanne hope we can get together some time in the future for a cup of tea.
Wish I could help you through the sad, sad, time.
My kindest regards to you, Margaret Bigrigg
My heartfelt condolences to you Jeanne, Meara and Brenna. I remember Val as friendly man who was generous with his vast knowledge of the forest. Wishing you peace and love at this most difficult time. Hugs Cindy Sanz