Noel Ewart Thomas Weldon passed away on Friday, December 10, 2021.
He was born in New Westminster to Thomas and Grace Weldon, the youngest of three children. He grew up on a farm in Maple Ridge, so it may not be a surprise that he would go on to train ribbon-winning German Shepherds. Noel was a jack of all trades, driving cab and city bus, working on the Alaskan highway, and received his small aircraft pilot’s license.
He married Judith Ann Weldon in 1964 and they bought a farm outside of Salmo, BC. It was here they planted their roots, determined to make it their home and raise a family. They started a successful flyer business, raised a variety of animals and would grow and sell produce at the local farmer’s market. They eventually would build a house for their expanding family of four.
Noel spent his life in service to his community. While his occupation changed over the years, from working as an EMT to driving school bus, he maintained this value throughout. He also volunteered at the Salmo Elementary School and for the local boy scouts. He went to Selkirk College and received a diploma in forest technology, and then went on to work for the BC Ministry of Forests. He eventually switched career paths to work as a woodsland manager. He became a steward of the local forests, ensuring the forestry work was done in a safe and environmentally sustainable way.
Sadly, Noel became a widower in 1993, but found happiness and companionship when he was introduced to Kathryn Bourdon in 1995. His children grew up and started successful lives. He enjoyed retirement, occasionally traveling, reading, looking after his farm, and taking care of the family pets.
Noel is survived by his children, Michael and Jennifer Weldon, and his spouse, Kathryn Bourdon.
Due to the pandemic and the restrictions on highway travel in parts of the province, a gathering to celebrate his life will be announced at a later date. Al Grywacheski of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
If you would like to donate to Noel’s favourite charities, then you can do so in his name to either the Salmo Public Library or the Salmo Food Bank.
The family would like to thank all the staff at Poplar Ridge Care facility for their warm, competent, and compassionate care of Noel during his stay there. We also would like to say thank you to all the friends, nurses, and home aides who were there for Noel and Kathryn during the last year.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de Noel Ewart Thomas Weldon December 10th 2021..
Décès pour la Ville: Trail, Province: Colombie britanique