Recently, the Foundation received a $102,000 will bequest from Christopher Parfree, formerly of Markdale.
A regular donor to the Foundation, Chris remembered local hospitals with a bequest gift in his Will as well. As it turned out, he left 50% of his Estate to the Owen Sound Regional Hospital Foundation, and the remainder to Centre Grey Health Services Foundation in support of Markdale hospital.
“Community was important to Chris,” said Estate Trustee, Don Harris. “He was aware of the lack of government funding for medical equipment and considered his regional and local hospital to be at the heart of a strong community.”
Born in 1924 in Milford on the Sea, Lymington Haunts, UK, Chris is survived by his brother Derek, who still resides in their parents’ home. As a young man, Chris apprenticed as a Tool and Die maker with MK Electric. As World War II heated up, he joined the Royal Air Force and was stationed in Cardington, Bedfordshire England, later serving in Egypt and Sudan.
While attending the Festival of Britain after the war, Chris heard about Canada – a country where he could practice his trade and live his passion for skiing. In 1951, he immigrated.
Chris became General Manager of the Beaver Valley Ski Club in 1962. He also worked to retrofit the hydro station below Lake Eugenia. Eventually, he retired in the Beaver Valley.
“Bequest gifts are such wonderful legacies!” said Lance Thurston – President & CEO of Grey Bruce Health Services. “To all our patients, they mean faster, more accurate diagnosis, less invasive surgery, quicker healing, earlier return regular activity – so many lives are impacted.”
Chris thrived on the challenges and adventures life had to offer. He was passionate about exploring and his amazing world map documenting his adventures is displayed at the Bicycle Café in Flesherton. He loved the outdoors, poetry, music and a “proper cup of tea”.
To learn how easy it is to create your legacy of improved hospital care through a will bequest, contact the Foundation office at 519-372-3925