Herbert McIlveen

It is with great sadness that the family of Herbert McIlveen announces his passing at the age of 89 years at the Langley Memorial Hospital on March 7, 2012 following a brief illness. Herb was predeceased by his parents, Kathleen and George McIlveen and brother Charles in Belfast, Ireland. Herb is survived by his loving wife Lisa; his dear sister Kay Estell; nieces: Pat Sorochan (Wayne)  and Shauna Boden (John); nephews: Paul Estell (Gail), Glenn Estell (Lorraine), Ross Estell (Paulette), Sean Estell (Caroline) and stepsons: Rick (Ilze) and Klaus (Janice) and grandchildren: Krista, Meridith, Mackenzie and Michael. In Ireland, nephews and nieces: Yvonne Sterling (Richard), James McIlveen (Viola), Fiona (Thomas) and Corrine (George). Herb was born in Belfast, Ireland and took all his schooling in Belfast. After graduation Herb was employed by the Belfast Transportation Company in various capacities and as a busman. During the war, Herb faithfully carried out his voluntary duties as an Air Raid Warden. Interested in promoting neighbourhood youth activities, he and his best friend Gunnar became leaders in the Manors Street Boys Club.

Herb always dreamed of coming to Canada and after his sister’s visit to Ireland from Canada, he followed and emigrated to Mirror, Alberta in 1951. Employed by Honeyboy Bread, Herb quickly rose through the ranks of the company and became the production manager for Northern Alberta. In 1983 McGavins Toastmaster Bread transferred him to Langley, BC to become production manager where he retired in 1986 after a loyal and distinguished career. His faith in the Lord was never wavering, neither was his beautiful Irish tenor voice. A member of the Westmount Presbyterian Church in the mid 1950’s (Edmonton), Herb’s initiative led to the creation of Braeside Presbyterian Church (St. Albert) of which he remained active until his move to BC. Since coming to BC, Herb was a member of Langley Presbyterian Church and was again active in the choir, as a soloist and in the production of plays and musicals. In 2007 Herb celebrated 50 years of Eldership with the Presbyterian church, a dedication he loved very much.

Herb was a Freemason, a member of PROBUS (Langley) and was also involved with many other community organizations. Herb touched all he met and made many lasting friends. He will be remembered for his sincerity, honesty, politeness and that he always welcomed people into his heart without conditions. Herb’s beautiful tenor voice, his kindness to others and his gentle presence will be missed by all. Memorial service, Saturday, March 24 at 11:00 am at the Langley Presbyterian Church 20867 – 44 Ave., Langley with a reception to follow. The family requests that donations be made to the Canadian Diabetes Association in lieu of flowers.