Obituary of Eunice Ione Dilworth

Eunice Ione Allen was born on September 8, 1937 in Irma, Alberta, to Maynard and Arla Jo Allen. At birth Eunice weighed two pounds and was kept warm in a wooden box on the open door of their wood stove. From Day one she was tiny, but incredibly tough. Eunice was the oldest of five children and spent her early years in and around Strome, Alberta. She excelled in sports and was known throughout her school years as a star runner. The family eventually moved to Violet Grove, where they opened a general store and post office. When Eunice was about 16, her brothers Lee and Lanny contracted polio, and she had to take time off school to help take care of them and help out in the store. In 1955 Eunice met the love of her life, David John Dilworth, known to everybody as "Jack", except for all of Eunice's family. For some unknown reason, they decided to call him "Dave", and still do after 60 years. Jack wanted to ask Eunice on a date but was shy, so he had a friend of his ask, and she said sure, if he comes and asks me himself. She said "Yes", and the rest was history. Eunice and Jack were married in 1956 and soon after moved to Dawson Creek, where their first daughter, Arla, was born. At a mere 2 pounds and 10 ounces, Arla was little but tough, just like her mom. Daughters Shelley and Colleen followed within the next 6 years, completing their family. Eunice became a farmer's wife after moving out to Sunrise Valley. While on the farm she was an active member in the Women's Institute and active in all of the community activities. In addition to being a wife and mother, Eunice was also a career woman. Once the girls were in school, she started working in McDermot's Resturant for a few years and ended up being the manager. After McDermot's, Eunice went to work at the Bank of Nova Scotia, and finished off her career as personnel manager at K-Mart. In 1972 the family moved from the farm into Dawson Creek. Eunice enjoyed many hobbies such as bowling, gardening, and camping with family. She was also a very active member of the hospital auxiliary, which she enjoyed very much. One of Eunice's greatest joys was cooking for her family. And what a cook she was! Shelley and Colleen's favorite was the cinnamon buns, Arla's favorite was the peach pie, and Mandy always enjoyed melted cheese Tuesdays. Her gravy was unbeatable. Olaf remembers her cooking pepper steak on a Coleman stove on the banks of the Pine River. No one ever went hungry while mom was cooking. Eunice and Jack enjoyed many years of travelling throughout the States with their good friends Ed and Nita Graham. They had a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to Alaska, as well as trips to Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Cuba with their family. Eunice's health started failing in the last couple of years. She spent the last seven months of her amazing life in Rotary Manor, where they gave her wonderful care and compassion. She will be forever loved and missed. Eunice passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, December 4, 2016 in Dawson Creek, B.C. at the age of 79 years. Eunice is survived by her loving Husband Jack of 60 Years, Daughters; Arla (Olaf), Shelley (Nolan), Colleen (Micky), and their families. Eunice was predeceased by her loving Parents; Maynard & Arla-Joe Allen, and Brother; Lanny Allen. A memorial service was held on Friday, December 9, 2016 at 1:00 pm from Reynars Funeral Chapel, Reverend Marilyn Carroll officiated, interment will be held at a later date. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Eunice to the Step Up 'N' Ride Society 105-10419-10 Street, Dawson Creek, B.C. V1G-3T8 Very Respectfully Reynars Funeral Home and Crematorium Memorial Service 1:00 pm Friday, December 9, 2016 Reynars Funeral Chapel 1300 102nd Avenue Dawson Creek, British Columbia, Canada V1G 2C6