With heavy hearts and fond memories we announce the passing of Mary Ellen Beckner (nee Byrne) on July 16th, 2017 at the age of 76 years. Mary Ellen was born on
June 12th, 1941 in Haricot, Newfoundland. She was the oldest of ten children born to Carmel and Michael Byrne. She married Andre Lafontaine in 1965 and they had two sons. She was the loving mother to Chad (Tracey) Lafontaine and David (Tonya) Lafontaine and grandmother to five beautiful grandchildren: Emilie, Ronan, Apolline, Luc and Laila. Mary Ellen is survived by her brothers Michael (Sharon) and Terry (Deanna) and sisters Michelle (Stephen), Una, Josephine (David) and Kimberly. She was predeceased by her brothers Eddie and Billy, her sister Teresa, her nephew Ricky and her second husband Donald Beckner. Mary Ellen is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Mary Ellen played an infinite number of roles – guardian, counselor, best friend, bread winner, entrepreneur ...it’s a long list. In 2003 she competed in the Seniors’ Games in Chilliwack, BC and won multiple medals in swimming. She loved Tai Chi and was involved in both the Schubert Center and Presbyterian Church Tai Chi groups for many years before her health declined. She was an avid backgammon player, could make a meal out of basically nothing and was happiest when she was spending time with her sons. She loved her afternoon naps and no matter where she was, she would make a nest for herself and have a glorious two hour nap.
The family would like to thank the staff at Polson Extended Care for the kindness and care provided to Mary Ellen in her final months. A Celebration of Mary Ellen’s Life will be held in Halifax and California over the coming weeks to pay tribute to our loving sister, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.
Cremation arrangements have been made with BETHEL FUNERAL CHAPEL LTD., 5605 27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5 • (250) 542-1187