Alphonse Benjamin Kristian

July 17, 1934 to April 22, 2016

 

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of “Ben” Kristian of Castlegar, BC, formerly of Prince Albert, SK on Friday, April 22,2016.  He is survived by his loving wife and best friend of 52 years Maureen (nee Beardall), his only son Curtis (Susan) Kristian, and two granddaughters, Hailey and Lindsey Kristian.  He is also survived by brothers Bob (Mary), Ron (Pat) and Brian (Genevieve); sisters Betty (Del) Hannah, Violet Habetler, Madeline Clark and Shirley Bjork; mother and sister-in-law Lillian Beardall and Marilyn Foster as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his parents James and Julia Kristian, his brothers Vern and Larry, nephew Marlon Kristian and father and brothers-in-law James Beardall, Ed Habetler and Neil Foster, as well as his beloved pet and loyal companion of 14 years Zar. Ben retired from a 40 plus year career with Saskatchewan Brewers Association in Prince Albert in 1994 and moved with Maureen to Castlegar, BC to pursue his love of prospecting, gardening, rockwall masonry and the great outdoors.  He had many a story to tell his granddaughters of his adventures flying, parachuting, encountering bears and cougars on his journeys, feeding the turkeys in the yard, the chipmunks and Peanut the Starling Jay out of his hand, as well as, sharing his wonderful collection of gems and minerals, and the ever expanding, beautiful gardens on the little slice of mountain in his backyard.  He will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.  He lived life to the fullest, following in the words of Ol’ Blue Eyes “I Did It My Way”.  Rest in peace Ben.

As per Ben’s wishes there will be no funeral at this time.  A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

• Date : 2016-04-22