Eric Stanley
Bracher
Nov. 9,1920 – Jan.19, 2011
90 years
Eric grew up in Vancouver with brother Noel. Both boys were early stalwarts of the rustic summer Christian camp Artaban on Gambier Island. Many stories and experiences were formed by those years working as team members helping others enjoy this unique and beautiful place.
Eric joined Trans Canada Airlines (later to become Air Canada) in his mid 20’s in flight dispatch, working his way up in the ranks of this fledgling airline to become Systems Operations Manager. A 35 year company veteran, he lived with his young family in almost every major city in Canada ,as the airline opened new flight centres. Eric was a consistent optimist and storyteller par excellence with an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of the airline he loved.
An avid golfer, Eric, with his lifetime partner of 62 years, Grace, chose Salt Spring to retire and pursue his passion for the game. An early life member of the Salt Spring Island Golf and Country Club, Eric shot his age at 79 on the course and was men’s club Captain in his 70’s. Those were his happiest years as he continued to golf until he was 89 yrs. with close pals.
Many will remember Eric as a keen and tenacious chess player at the Seniors for Seniors Centre where he also regularly volunteered as an off-island support driver.
As Eric logs his final journey, his family offers heartfelt thanks to all those who helped make his life so rich and bountiful. In particular, the people who cared for him in his last days: Dr. Woodley, his long time physician, Dr. Goranson, Jo Twaites and the staff at Lady Minto Hospital. Special gratitude to the inspired care in his final hours from the Salt Spring Hospice volunteers, Lorinne, Monika, Colleen and Beth.
He will be missed by his dear wife Grace, daughter Susan, son-in-law John, grandson Christopher who will miss his grandfather’s wisdom and endless jokes, nephews John (Judi), Michael (Gigi), Peter( Jo) and their children. Eric is predeceased by his brother Noel, (Jo) and granddaughter Emily.
Donations to Salt Spring Hospice would be gratefully accepted.
Friends and family are invited to a celebration of Eric’s life at the SS Golf and Country Club, 805 Lower Ganges Rd. on Wednesday, February 9th @ 3:00 p.m. Come and raise a glass to Eric. Refreshments served.