March 14, 1949 - January 21, 2021
Grant McPherson of Deroche, BC, was born March 14, 1949, and died on January 21, 2021, at the Holmberg Hospice in Abbotsford, BC.
In his final days, he was continually surrounded by family and friends. Eldest son of Milt and Betty McPherson (who predeceased him), he is survived by his eldest daughter, Mandy Graham and mother Davina Graham; daughter, Rheanna McPherson (Chris) and mother Shirley Kowalchuk; grandchildren Kiera and Riley Leeper; siblings, Mark (Brenda), Penny (Keith Lane), Barry (Marlene), Guy (Rommel) (Victoria); many adoring nieces and nephews; and his beloved pets, Arlo and Pingpong.
His generosity to the less fortunate was mostly hidden from view, but few who traveled by foot or bike from Mission to Deroche were untouched by his charity. His contributions to his community included participation in local arbor days, but he will be most remembered for delighting children and adults alike as the most "Authentic Santa" they ever met. His great-nephew was always amazed by how much Santa looked so much like his Uncle Grant and how Santa even drove the same truck and had the same dog!
For 38 years Grant visited private homes, schools, and local indigenous communities with his suit, his dog, and his bag full of goodies. Every contribution he ever received was re-gifted to families in need.
Santa? Yes! Saint? Definitely not! But those of us who knew him best saw beneath his outer defenses and saw a man, who, deep-down was always kind, honest, compassionate, and devoted. With a twinkle in his eye, he was bigger than life, his presence filled a room, and his laugh was unmistakable. He will be lovingly remembered by all of us with occasional flashes of exasperation, but mostly with joy, laughter, and love!
A special thanks to the staff at Holmberg House.
Due to Covid-19 the family is planning to arrange a Celebration of Life on the 1-year anniversary of his passing.