Mary Kilbey

Mary Kilbey

Nov. 23, 1919 to Feb. 10, 2003

Mary was born in Nanaimo to Frank and Elizabeth Dybek. In 1932, Mary’s mother passed away and she was required at home to help maintain the household. In 1937, Mary married Arthur Davidson Clark and moved to Cumberland, B.C. where sons Glen Arthur Clark and Ronald David Clark were born.

In 1942, Arthur Clark died suddenly and Mary returned to her father’s household until 1948 when she married John (Chick) Albert Kilbey. Following the birth of their son William John Kilbey the couple moved to Coombs where they owned the general store and post office. Mary soon became a central figure in this small community and her many roles included being a mid-wife when the need arose.

In 1959, Mary and Chick sold the store and briefly owned and operated the first Dairy Queen in Parksville. Due to Chick’s deteriorating health they soon sold the business and moved to Nanaimo. John Albert Kilbey died in 1974.

In her 50s, Mary passed her Real Estate exam, where her high energy, integrity and vibrant personality contributed to a successful career.

In 1991, she moved to Prince George to be closer to her family. Mary passed away suddenly on Feb. 10, 2003. She will be remembered by family and friends for her generous hospitality, infectious sense of humour and kind, compassionate manner, She was quick to respond to the emotional needs of others and her friends and family will miss her greatly.

Mary is survived by her three sons; Glen (Sharon), Ron (Anne), and Bill (Val) as well as eight grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Mary’s wish was that donations be made to the Canadian Huntington’s Society in her memory. (151 Frederick St., Suite 400, Kitchener, Ont., N2H 2M2).
