Robin McCormick
Once again our small community is saddened by the loss of a lifelong resident.
Ethel Bujold passed away on Sunday after a brief battle with an aggressive form of cancer.
Ethel not only was active in the Devlin/La Vallee area, but was a part of the entire district. You would see her out and about at many social functions.
A vibrant woman and immaculate in appearance, with every hair in place (thanks to Marlene Nelson, who did her hair every week for 28 years), Ethel never would miss a chance to say “hi” and ask “how are you?” (sometimes more than once).
She was the organist at Guthrie United Church for years, and I was told she often would fill in at Knox United Church in Fort Frances when needed.
Many will remember Ethel when her late husband, Fritz, was still living. The couple worked hard and made Greensides store here in Devlin a successful business.
Ethel will be sadly missed by her daughter, Pam, and family. As well, her sisters, Freeda and Audrey, spent a lot of time together with Ethel over the last year.
Gert Bujold, Ethel’s sister-in-law, also will feel this immense loss.
One thing that Ethel also saw to was that every graduating Grade 12 student in our community received a graduation card from her (whether she knew them personally or not).
My daughter, Carley, mentioned that a few weeks ago when I informed her that Ethel had been diagnosed with cancer. Carley’s words were: “I liked Ethel. She was a nice lady.”
And that she was.
Sympathy goes out to all of Ethel’s family and close friends. We all are sharing this loss with you.
There is an old cliché, “Gone but not forgotten,” and that describes Ethel the best way I can.
• • •
Last week I mentioned that Bill McLean was honoured as the 2011 Senior of the Year for La Vallee.
I’ve since had the opportunity to talk to Carol and gather information on the many reasons why Bill was chosen for this award.
Bill has lived in the area all his life. He played an active role in the preparation for our centennial celebration and thrashing bee. He also is always on hand, and pitches in cleaning up the Devlin Hall after any event.
In recent years, Bill has been a member of the clean-up crew for the opening of the abattoir in Emo. He also helps set up for cattle sales in Stratton.
As well, Bill was a member of the La Vallee volunteer fire department, he coached minor hockey, and helped with community and church renovations.
And last but certainly not least, Bill has enjoyed preparing his back yard pond for neighbourhood kids to skate and play hockey on during the winter months.
I asked Carol if Bill was surprised when his name was called. She replied that while the person’s many “good deeds” were being read out, Bill was trying to guess who they were talking about.
Once again, congratulations Bill!
• • •
Last month’s gas winner at Dev-Lynne’s was Stephanie Cain, who won the $100 voucher up for grabs.
Be sure to sign up for the free draw every time you purchase $25 or more in gas there.
• • •
Cards played at the Emo Legion last week saw Rita Woodland and Adelia Guba take the high while the low went to Rudy Meyers and Erwin Morphet.
Rita Woodland also won the draw.
• • •
Bingo will be played at the Emo Legion next Tuesday (Dec. 27).
The next “Country Jam” will be held there Dec. 31 beginning at 7 p.m.
• • •
The next 50/50 draw at the Emo Legion is set for Friday, Dec. 30. Be sure to purchase a ticket!
• • •
The annual Betty Kellar Memorial card tournament will be held Saturday, Jan. 7 at the Emo Legion.
For more information or to register, call the Legion at 482-2250.
• • •
A reminder that the Fort Frances High School Travel Club, in conjunction with Lowey’s Greenhouses and Market Garden, is offering beautiful poinsettias for $12 each.
Vouchers, which are available at the Devlin post office, will be redeemable for one six-inch plant.
Plants can be collected from Lowey’s or the Christmas Store up until Dec. 24.
• • •
Ice candles still are available for the price of $5 each.
These can be used for the candle-lighting ceremony at local cemeteries on Christmas Eve or to decorate your yard.
Tickets can be picked up at Lucille McDonald’s residence on Cemetery Road or by calling 486-1251.
• • •
Robin’s 2¢:
It was the week before Christmas and all through Devlin, not a creature was stirring and Robin asked why?
We were holding our breath because the answer was clear—Ralph and Scott were out trying to bag them a deer.
All of a sudden, there arose such a clatter. We jumped to our feet wondering, “What could be the matter?”
In walked the hunters, smiling and drinking a beer, telling us all how they had bagged eight tiny reindeer.
I hope we have better luck than Santa this Christmas Eve.
Merry Christmas!
