Obituary of Ian Eggertson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of David “Ian” Eggertson, a longtime resident of Dawson Creek, British Columbia. Ian passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Friday, March 22, 2024, in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, at the age of 79 years.

Ian was born on Friday, March 16, 1945, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Dave and Setta Eggertson. He was the third of four children. Ian grew up on his family’s homestead near the Icelandic-Canadian community of Siglunes, on the shores of Lake Manitoba. His childhood was spent helping on the family farm, fishing, and playing baseball.

When he was 12 years old, Ian’s family moved to Surrey, British Columbia. Ian met Harald Hansen and Don Howard, and the three became lifelong friends. They played sports together, worked together, travelled together, and got into the type of antics they didn’t fully share with their children. The trio ended up all attending UBC at the same time, and Ian received a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics.

In 1969, Ian met Myrna Gronlie, and so began a love story for the ages. After a quick courtship, they were married in 1970 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Their son Ian Jr. was born in 1971 and their first daughter Ingrid came along in 1973. Kristine completed the family in 1978.

In 1974, Ian read in the newspaper that the Hillcrest Motel in Pouce Coupe, British Columbia was for sale. He drove up from Surrey to view it, immediately took a liking to the area, and easily convinced Myrna that the opportunity and community were worth moving away from their family and friends. The motel provided them a convenient space to host visitors, some of whom ended up moving to the Peace River area. Ian and Myrna spent 17 years operating the Hillcrest and made many close friends in Pouce Coupe.

A new business venture came in 1991, when Ian and Myrna sold the motel. They moved to Dawson Creek and purchased the Hypertension Escape Bowling Lanes. Ian and Myrna owned and operated the lanes for 20 years. Ian worked a full-time job during the day and spent many evenings and most weekends at the bowling lanes.

Ian worked at the City of Dawson Creek for 30 years, retiring as Chief Financial Officer in 2004. He appreciated his staff and colleagues and would often explain that he was only able to do his job because others were so good at theirs. Ian’s lifelong friends Don and Harald, who moved up to the Peace River area with their families in the mid-1970s, also worked alongside him at the City for many years.

Ian was a natural athlete and played many sports. He was a skilled catcher, pitcher, and shortstop, and he coached his kids’ baseball teams. He also coached Ian Jr. in hockey and played hockey himself until he was 75. First with the Dawson Creek Canucks, then the Oldtimers. He enjoyed spending summers golfing with Myrna and friends. Ian also bowled a perfect game early on in his ownership of the bowling lanes (it was not rigged!). He loved watching sports, particularly the Montreal Canadiens and LA Dodgers (who he had been cheering for since they were in Brooklyn).

Most of all, Ian enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. He loved Myrna dearly and was entirely devoted to her. He curated beautiful childhoods for his children and grandchildren, who deeply felt his love and pride. Ian remained connected to family who lived far away, making a point to visit siblings. He welcomed all family into his home. Ian spent time with many close friends over the years playing bridge, drinking coffee, enjoying a glass of wine or two, and sharing meals.

Ian was predeceased by his parents Dave and Setta, and his brother Eggert.

Ian is survived by his wife Myrna; children Ian (Anastasia), Ingrid (Jeff), and Kristine (Quentin); grandchildren Josh (Emily), Jeremy, Ella, Jackson, Lionel, and Severin; sisters Margaret and Bernice; many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He will be missed by many.

Ian’s family would like to invite you to join them for a celebration of Ian’s life on Monday, May 6, 2024, from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, at the Dawson Creek Golf and Country Club. There will be an opportunity for those would like to share a story or say a few words.

Myrna would like to thank everyone who sent flowers, meals, cards, and had her in their thoughts in the immediate days after Ian’s passing. In lieu of donations, Ian’s family request that you take your family and loved ones out for a nice meal. Enjoy their company and appreciate what you have right in front of you, just like Ian did.

Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home and Crematorium