Harold Bakke

After a long journey with Alzheimer’s, Dad left this world peacefully to join his beloved wife, Shirley May.  Born in Lisieux, Saskatchewan on the family homestead to Norwegian emigrants, Dad grew up with two brothers.  It was a hard, frugal life but they learned that over material things, value came from family and friendships.  This foundation established the kind, gentle, compassionate man that our Dad was.

Dad left the farm and became an accomplished welder and an equally talented musician.  The “dog house” bass and fiddle were his instruments and he and his band mates became celebrities in the Moose Jaw area, playing on the radio and travelling, even as far as Las Vegas.  It was during the years of his “celebrity” that he met Shirley May Jones at the local bowling alley.  The petite dark-haired beauty was 7 years his junior and he was smitten.  They married in December 1951.  Three children followed over the years; Cheryl (Brian), Harold Jr. (Doris) and Kathy (David). Grandchildren Jeff, Brad, Curtis, Ryan, Sarah and Ingrid were cherished by Dad and Mom. Unfortunately Mom passed away suddenly in 2006 and she never met her great-grandsons, Jacob and Nickolas.

Dad was a man of Christian faith.  He spoke fluent Norwegian and French.  He supervised the laying of oil pipelines in Africa and northern Alberta with Mobil Oil.  There was a second career with BC Hydro and from here he retired at age 65.  Dad was multi-talented.  His work-shop was his refuge, always immaculate and organized.  Learning woodworking from his own father, he was able to build their first home and later in life his artistic and creative side came out with the many items he turned out from his lathe. He loved to tinker with electronics, made his own wine and beer, built a smoker and made the best smoke salmon ever. The tomatoes he grew in the greenhouse he built were appreciated by everyone.  But by far, his talent as a musician was paramount.  We were fortunate to grow up in a musical home where jam sessions with his many musician friends were common. 

In his late 70’s Dad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s but during the journey to the end his kind soul was ever present.  He resided at West Shore Laylum in Ladner for his last six years.  Here he was affectionately known as “Poppa” by the loving caregivers that nurtured him through his challenges.  Our family will be forever grateful to every single member of the staff at West Shore.  He was always treated with affection and dignity and his last days were made as comfortable as possible.

A private family service will lay Dad to rest on Friday August 30^th.  But should friends want to pay tribute in a small way, please make a donation to the Alzheimer Society B.C.

You are invited to leave a fond memory or personal message of condolence for the family.