Emily Rita GANTER

 It is with great sadness the family announces the sudden passing of Emily Rita (Blue) Ganter. 

Left to mourn and remember: loving husband of 59 years, Richard; daughters Deneen (Jeremy) and Shelley (John); grandsons Braydon and Connor; and devoted friend Shannon.

Emily was born in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan to Eva and Duncan Blue, the fifth of six children.

She left home as a teen to work, but in 1962 a bad accident put her in hospital for six months. This accident was a blessing in disguise, as she met her husband-to-be, Rick, during her stay.

The two married September 19, 1963 and welcomed the first of two daughters in 1964 and the second in 1968.

After moves that took them from BC to Labrador and back again, the family of four settled in the Elk Valley. While Rick worked at the local mine, Emily raised their girls.

Emily will be remembered for her work with the Legion Ladies’ Auxiliary, and volunteer work with the Lions.

She enjoyed bowling and proudly displayed the huge trophy she received for the first official 400+ point game at the Fernie Bowling Alley.

For many years she participated in trivia nights and jitney darts at the Fernie Legion. Her quick wit and extensive trivia knowledge also helped her finish the weekly crossword puzzle. Trips with ‘the ladies’ to US casinos were frequent and even if she didn't win big money, she had a good time.

Her grandsons were her pride and joy and they lit her up like nothing else.

Smart as a whip, stubborn as hell, funny, sarcastic and a wicked baker and card player, Emily will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Thank you to the doctors and staff at the Fernie, Cranbrook and Kelowna hospitals for their kind and professional care during her final hours.

By her request, there will be no public service.

If friends wish, donations can be made in her name to Angel Flight.

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