BILLINGS: Lester Charles "Charlie". It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Charlie Billings, during the early hours of April 30, 2014, at Kelowna Hospice House, age of 97 years. Charlie is survived by his daughter Evelyn (Jack) Dart, son Mel (Ann) Billings, grandchildren Trever, Kim, Mat, Mike, Glenda, and Garth, and by great grandchildren Eric, Monica, Nathan, Charlie, Reegan, Tyson, Allison, and David, numerous nieces and nephews, along with family in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Florida. He was predeceased by his wife, Anna Louise Billings (nee Boutilier), daughter Jean (Abe) Kroeger, parents Lester and Elizabeth, stepmother Isabelle, brothers Bert, who lost his life in France during WW2, Vic, and sisters Dorothy and Bessie. Charlie was born in Saskatoon, SK on June 13, 1916 to Lester and Elizabeth (Tomilison) Billings. He grew up on a farm near Richard, SK. where he met his wife, Anna Louise. They first lived together on a farm near Richard, and then moved to Saskatoon. Charlie enlisted in the army and in 1940 joined the Number 1 Road Construction Company, Royal Canadian Engineers, as a Sapper, or combat engineer. He served in Canada, the UK, and France. It was in France where he suffered a leg injury which impacted him for the remainder of his life. Charlie spent the remainder of his career working for Henry Birks & Sons in Saskatoon. Charlie's interests included curling, gardening, woodworking, travel, his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. He had the ability to create something special out of nothing. He had a great sense of humour, an attention to detail, and a very sharp mind, right to the end. A service will be held at a later date, in Richard SK, jointly for Charlie, and his wife, Anna Louise. Thanks to the caring people at the Chatsworth, Kelowna General Hospital, and Kelowna Hospice House. Special thanks to Dr. Bernard Lewke, and to a very special volunteer by the name of Francis, who helped sit vigil with him during his final hours. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting click on stories and type in Lester Billings. Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC. ____________________________________________________
