Norman "Duke" Frank Standeven

Norm was born to William Edward and Annie Standeven on August 4th, 1922 on the family farm between Rosedale and Chilliwack, B.C. Norm had five siblings; Jean, Joyce, John. Dick, and Bill. In grade one Norm was nicknamed “Duke” and has been called that ever since. Growing up, Duke worked the 125 acre farm which was primarily dairy, and worked with heavy horses.

Going to dances allowed Duke to meet Joyce Williams whom he married in 1943. They were married for 63 years before her passing in 2006. Their relationship was one of hard work and reliance on one another to run the family farm and raise four children.

Due to the heavy workload, Duke and Joyce sold the dairy herd of about 45 cows in 1969. By 1971, Duke had built his machine shop, a dream come true, where he repaired and fabricated machinery for the neighborhood until the age of 92. He continued to raise a few beef cattle. They traveled a little across country on camping trips, however working in the machine shop and fishing was Duke’s retirement.

In later years, Duke and Joyce continued to enjoy going to dances, carpet bowling and lots of community events. Family gatherings were an annual event. Duke was president of the Camp River Hall Society which put him in touch with many Chilliwack residents. Duke also called square dances and was the M.C. at the Camp River Dances for more than forty years. Fishing became more and more frequent as the years passed and more of his friends retired.

Duke was very social and a great story teller. He loved to laugh and remember the good times in his life.

Duke was predeceased by his loving wife Joyce, his son Edward and daughter June. Norm is survived by his youngest brother Bill (Suzanne) and two sons Robert (Elva) and Bruce (Lila), ten grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren. Many thanks to Dr. Treyer and all the staff at Pleasant Valley Manor for making Norman’s last two years so comfortable. The family has decided not to hold a funeral service at this time due to the Covid – 19 Pandemic.