The recent gathering at the East Delta Hall of "old Ladner folks" and friends, which celebrated the life of Sylvia Vietch nee (North), brought to mind the effect of the "North family" on the lifestyle of post-Second World War Ladner Village. In those years, approximately 4,500 people resided in Delta, mainly located in the Ladner area.
The economic drivers were the farming and fishing industries, which were supported by businesses located in the village. Without a permanent river crossing, Ladner offered many services no longer in existence such as car dealerships, heavy farm equipment, marine services, a movie theatre, bowling alley, etc.
George and Margaret North arrived in Ladner in the 1930s and raised three children, starting with Donald in 1938, Helen and lastly Sylvia, born in 1945. George, a Ladner businessman, managed and operated the Overwaitea grocery store on Delta Street. He was very involved in community organizations and a valued member of Ladner's volunteer fire department, as were many business owners, out of necessity.
The North family home near Ladner Elementary was typical of the times with Margaret raising three children, all socially outgoing, resulting in a houseful of likeminded friends during elementary and senior school years.
I was one of many who enjoyed the hospitality and social times in the North household. Mrs. North doubled as a songstress and music teacher, getting her children, me and others ready for church choirs, community amateur hours and school plays.
During teenage years the downstairs family room was a place to gather, party and enjoy private times, under the watchful eyes of Mrs. North. In later times, Margaret taught numerous preschool children in the same home.
Don and I journeyed through school together through Grade 12. Helen was three years behind and Sylvia in elementary school when we graduated in a class of 31 in 1956.
Don's school interests centered on the annual operetta where both he and Helen had starring roles.
Prophetically, Don was the editor of the Deltan, the school's annual, highlighting the year's activities.
He was active in public speaking and forming the United Nations Club at Delta High following a visit to the U.N. in New York.
Helen graduated from Delta High and went on to become a registered nurse. After graduation Sylvia became a dental technician and both married well and raised their families. Tragically, Helen and Sylvia both succumbed to the ravages of cancer at age 67.
Don entered the field of journalism from UBC and resides in Fairfax, Virginia with his family. He remains active as a war correspondent, starting with Vietnam in 1965, and teaches journalism at the university level. We see Don from time to time at reunions.
The brief history of the North family is an example of our ever-changing community landscape.
Those remaining are left with a bucketful of memories of a family that influenced many in the village of Ladner.
And a good night to you, Nancye.
