As the paper was about to get sent to press two weeks ago, we got the news that Grace Walsh had passed away.
There wasn’t enough time then to organize a proper farewell to someone who has played such a pivotal role in our community. Even now, the words feel inadequate to honour her.
It seems that every few months—sometimes every few weeks—Grace, usually alongside Frank, would be in the paper, again. The last time was last issue, where Frank was interviewed to speak of his time as Lions club president, and he appeared in a photo, alongside Grace.
Bob Rimes, president of the Lions Club of Tumbler Ridge says saying a final goodbye to a person who has played such a pivotal role in our community is never easy. “Today, the Lions Club of Tumbler Ridge are leaning into having to say so long dear friend. Grace Walsh fought a valiant and long battle to stay and Frank, her devoted husband, rarely left her side these past two and a half months. Last night he held her hand and said goodbye to his one true love, knowing where she was going was so much better than here, and here was pretty awesome!”
According to Rimes, a Celebration of Life for Grace will be held sometime come summer. “Until then, if you see Frank about, take a moment to say hello, shake his hand and let him know you understand what he cannot put into words. Through a moment of your caring his healing will slowly happen.”
News of her passing swept through the community, and words of remembrance were swift and plentiful. “Grace was a one of a kind person, I will never forget her kindness to anyone in need. I worked alongside her at Aboriginal days as the Lions club always stepped up for community events. God’s speed, Grace,” says Geri Buhler.
“I remember Grace helping with Bingo for the Lions, and I also remember Grace helping with the Lions all the time,” says Andrea Sager
Brenda Duhaime says “she was a amazing lady helping people I just miss her so, so much. I love her smile.”
Meanwhile, Tony Bourdeaux says he is “offering my condolences Frank and family GRACE WILL BE GREATLY MISSED.”
“Grace was a great lady with a heart of gold, so very genuine and thoughtful. I enjoyed every conversation I had with her over the years at various events she so tirelessly committed to. May she rest in peace,” says Ken MacEachern, while Dave Merry says “she was one of the kindest most thoughtful humans I have ever met. I still remember when we were doing some upgrades for the Ladies Auxiliary at the Legion. She and Marg came in early that day to make sure we had some turkey dinner.”
Harry Prosser also has a story to tell about Grace. “I remember the time when the Grizzly Valley Saddle Club researched how to, then proceeded to put on, three very successful rodeos; we coordinated with many other clubs in town, because we all wanted to do it right. One of my fondest memories was how many times the same name came up over and over when it was asked how to make the cooperation work. Grace, you were gold in so many ways, you brought so much to this community and will always be remembered for your grace. RIP.”
While Grace is best remembered for her volunteer spirit, especially with the Lions, Maxine VanBrabant remembers another side of her. “Grace was such an enthusiastic participant in the Curling Club Community Kitchen Party as well as the Shed Party. Not as a volunteer, which she did so much of, but as a guest who, once the dancing got started, boogied her feet off, Ugly Stuck in hand and a big smile ear to ear. She seemed to always be wearing that same smile no matter what she was doing, at least whenever my husband and I saw her. An ardent volunteer for the local Lions Club, both her and Frank spent countless hours working at Bingo, pancake breakfasts, community BBQs and more, while simultaneously trying to get new members into the club. Her enthusiasm and generosity overflowed and she will be missed greatly by many.
Rob Mackay says “Tumbler Ridge has been so fortunate to have been blessed with many volunteers. Among those Grace and Frank stand with the best. Always cheerful, helpful and available to help. Rest in Peace Grace. You will be greatly missed. Condolences to Frank and family.”
“I don’t have one memory of Grace,” says Lions member Barbi MacKenzie. “Instead, I am blessed to have many. Grace and Frank helped me find my place in Tumbler Ridge by bringing me to the Lions Club of Tumbler Ridge. Grace was an amazing friend to all.”
Her volunteer heart brought her recognition, not just in the community, but in the province. Back in 2013, she (and husband Frank) were awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of BC. “Grace and Frank Walsh are long-time volunteers at the Lions Club International Foundation,” says the award. “They organize community activities every week: bingo, BBQs, dances, and pancake breakfasts. With the funds they help raise, they have done everything from refurbishing the playground to purchasing defibrillators for the fire department. Both are also involved with the Royal Canadian Legion and a number of other community initiatives.”
Charles and Linda Helm dealt with Grace on many occasions. “For us, Grace was the epitome of all that is good about Tumbler Ridge,” they write. “She and Frank were our contacts for many events, including the Emperor’s Challenge, the TR Triathlon, and the Tumbler Ridge Medical Conference. We always knew that arrangements for these events were in good, safe hands, and that Grace’s happy demeanour and irresistible smile would spread to others and ensure a positive outcome. Above all, she was a passionate volunteer who was dedicated to making Tumbler Ridge a better place. Happily, she was appropriately recognized and knew of the esteem in which she was held: she and Frank were elected Tumbler Ridge Community Champions in 2023, and received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of Canada in 2013. Grace enriched the lives of those around her, and her passing leaves a void. There are few people whose names encapsulate their personality as well as ‘Grace’. Perhaps the best way for us to honour this wonderful human being is by trying to emulate her shining example.”
Finally, Bob Rimes offers these last words. “Good bye sweet friend, rest easy, job well done,” Lion Bob.
Above Photo: Grace Walsh was proud to be of Ukrainian descent. Here she is is 2022 at a fundraiser for Humanitarian efforts after Russian Forces invaded Ukraine.
Trent is the publisher of Tumbler RidgeLines.
