Lorraine Zean “Smokey” Neighbor passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, November 20, 2003 at the age of 90 years.
Smokey is survived by his loving daughters, Ruth King of Maderia Park, B.C., Della (Arnold) Jeffers of Barriere, B.C., Jean (Bob) Vogel of Bellingham, Wash., fourteen grandchildren, twenty-five great granchildren, five great great grandchildren, one sister Alice Schaning of Evansburg, AB, one sister-in-law, Lauerea (Buster) Hannah of Vernon, numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
Smokey was predeceased by his loving wife Lavada Neighbor in June of 1986, brothers Rufus, Edward, Herschel and Victor, sisters Bertha, Estella and Kate, his parents Ray and Luella Neighbor and one grandson Ray Hagen.
Smokey was born to Luella and Ray Neighbor on January 14, 1913 in Buckstone Oregon. They emigrated to Evansburg, AB. Smokey had a way with horses and at a young age became a wrangler which in turn lead him on many trips that are now part of Northern B.C.’s history. Smokey made his last trip north in 1934 as he wanted to spend more time with his wife and family. After working for a time on the Athabasca Ranch they moved to Ootsa Lake, B.C. in 1940, where he farmed, logged, rodeo’d and guided before and after the war. Smokey was in service from 1944 - 1946. The family then moved to Hazelton in 1951 after being bought out for the building of the Kenny Dam where they resided until they moved to Lavington in 1965 where Smokey worked at the Lumby Mill until his retirement. Smokey was an avid bowler right up to the end.
Smokey will always be remembered for his quick wit amusing tales and his great ability for yodeling (once complimented by Wilf Carter) on the excellent job of yodeling.
Happy trails to you, till we meet again. Dad you’ll be in our hearts forever.
Funeral service was held on Saturday, November 29, 2003 at 1:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Valley Funeral Home with Pastor Sean Wong officiating. Interment followed in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery. Those friends wishing to make memorial contributions in memory of Smokey may do so to the charity of their choice.