Marie Ellen Yelich

Marie Yelich (nee Knapfl) was born in Burnaby, B.C. on 19 April 1942 and passed away, into the presence of her Lord, 28 April 2023. Her early years were spent in Burnaby, where she was raised on a small farm, along with her 4 siblings.

She obtained a teaching certificate at UBC and began teaching, in the primary grades, at 19 years old. Shortly after this she met her future husband Matthew and they were married on 21 December 1963, at the First Baptist Church, Vancouver. They spent their early married life in Powell River, Burnaby and North Vancouver, where Marie continued to teach until her 2 children were born. While they were still small, she went back to school and completed her Bachelor of Education degree, again at UBC.

The family spent a great deal of time exploring the Vancouver outdoors. Kitsilano Beach, Stanley Park and Seymour Mountain, as well as various ocean wharves and beaches, were favourite spots. The children learned to swim in the Stanley Park Saltwater Pools. Tenting trips throughout BC were taken, as well. Cultus Lake, in Chilliwack was high on their list of places to camp and visit.

In the early 1970's the family moved to Chilliwack where they bought a 10 acre farm. They lived a 'Harrowsmith' life on the farm making their own flours, breads, cheeses, sausages, canned and frozen goods, honey, candles, and more. Marie also worked fulltime in special education for many years, eventually moving into administrative roles in the field. She later earned a Master of Education at the University of Victoria.

Working out of the 'Learning Centre' on Wells Rd, Chilliwack, she travelled to district schools as an itinerant teacher first in learning assistance and then as a District Diagnostician. Later she acted as Co-ordinator and then Head of Student Services. She greatly enjoyed her time here.

Upon selling the farm, Marie took early retirement and the couple spent years travelling.. They enjoyed time camping and fishing, with their motorhome and boat, at their favourite lake and ocean destinations. They also vacationed, mostly throughout California and Europe. Later they purchased a home in Croatia, her husband's birthplace, where they spent their summers by the sea.

Her churchlife was important to her and she was a lifelong member of the Baptist and later Mennonite Brethren churches. She was an avid reader and could always be found with a book in her hand. Enjoying an outdoor life, with swimming, walking, hiking, bike riding, cross country skiing and gardening was a favourite pastime, as were arts and crafts and spending time with family and friends.

Marie was pre-deceased by her husband in 2020 and by her parents. She is survived by 1 daughter, 1 son, 3 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She is also survived by 3 brothers, 1 sister, their spouses, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Graveside Service will be held at Chilliwack Cemeteries, 10010 Hillcrest Dr, at 11:00 am on 19 May 2023. A Celebration of Life service will follow at Sardis Community Church, 45625 South Sumas Road, at 1 pm. Reception will follow at Sardis Community Church. All are welcome to attend. If desired, donations can be made to the Alzheimer's Society or to a charity of your choice.

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