Roy Francis Pearson, 74

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather Roy Pearson at the Bulkly Valley Hospital in Smithers, B.C on November 17,2012
Roy was born in Bergland, Ontario to Gunnar and Anna Pearson on July 29, 1938 and spent his growing up years between Bergland and Winnipeg.
Roy had a very full life, taking it upon himself to always meet whatever life had in store head first and get problems solved. His life experiences took him on many paths. From starting out as an 11 years old, ambitious boy selling 'The Winnipeg Free Press' on the corner of Portage and Main, he quickly discovered his great love of sales early on. Coupled with his very vibrant & charming personality, he would take those skills and go on to run his own businesses and sell merchandise all across Canada and the U.S. He went from a Pharmaceutical salesman for Sig Labatories in Oklahoma City in the 1960's to owning his own giftware company, which he ran successfully from the 70's through to 2001, which is when he retired. More than sales, Roy's biggest love was always his family. His wife, three boys, two daughters and grandchildren, will miss him very much. He was so proud of his family. It was a running joke how everyone who met him would first have to go through a 'slide show' of all the family pictures in his wallet. One of Roy's great joys was music. Anyone who knew him also knew this and would most likely be able to recall him serenading someone with Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra tunes. “Are you lonesome tonight” was one of his favourites. Roy shared his music ability with youngest daughter Andrea, and for many years he took on the role of manager, booking agent and sound engineer. It didn't matter what it was, Roy could adapt to whatever the task at hand and you always knew he would be great at it! He also loved fishing with his boys and made a point to buy a boat when the boys were young. He wanted them to be able to do what they loved, which was fishing. More importantly than catching a fish, it was the time spent with his boys that truly mattered to Roy. One thing Roy always loved was to travel. It was always joked about that he had a 'gypsy's soul'. One of his favourite places to go was Hawaii. He talked about it often and would forever be making plans to go, even when he wasn't well and could no longer travel. Roy will be remembered for the charismatic, dynamic, unforgettable person that he was. Whether it was making a sale, catching a fish or singing a song, Roy always did it “his way”, with great passion. He was one of those lights too bright to burn out. One of those voices too strong to silence. One of those spirits too brilliant to forget. He was free in his life as he is free now. He showed us all a way to live life to it's fullest and to never see any obstacle as too big to conquer. Dream. Laugh. Sing. Dance. Live life without hesitation. Roy lives on in the lessons he leaves behind.
He will be greatly missed by his dedicated and loving wife of 51 years, Grace (Jensson) Pearson his children, Darren (Tanya) Pearson, Duane (Sharolise) Pearson, Greg Pearson, Laurie Pearson and Andrea Pearson, and his grandchildren Matthew, Nicolas, Jaden and Emily. One sister Gloria (John) North and numerous Nieces, Nephews, Relatives and friends.
He was predeceased by his parents Gunner and Anna Pearson, one brother Gorden in 2008. Two half sister's Elsie Kallstrom and Vera Haug.
A memorial service was held at the old church in Smithers, B.C with Rev. George Richmond officiating on Wednesday Nov 21 ,2012. Interment to follow at a later date at the McInnes Creek Chapel in Ontario. Memorial donations may be made to the McInnes Creek Chapel.