Albert Franson

March 4, 1934 – May 10, 2014

Albert Edward Franson, an 80-year resident of the Windermere Valley, in his own notable style, quietly, peacefully and without complaint left his body, family and friends to explore the great unknown. Needless to say he will be greatly missed by all those that knew this very original character.

Albert was born in a CPR section house which at the time was his Mom and Dad’s home back in 1934. His Dad, Charles, worked for the CPR at that point. This was a time and life far removed from the

comforts this Valley now gets to enjoy. Albert was the second youngest of six children in the family. He will no doubt be looking forward to meeting up once again with his Mom, Evelyn; his Dad, Charles; his two brothers Ronnie and Norman; and his sister Gladys Sivorot.

Albert will be dearly missed by his other two sisters, Hilda Byman and Shirley Mackey, along with all his nieces, nephews and those that knew him well.

Albert went to school in Radium up until the Radium School closed down. His parents then bought a house in Wilmer and moved there. Albert then continued his schooling in Wilmer.

After leaving school Albert worked for some time in the logging industry and then later got into construction. A severely broken arm during that time led to a one-month hospital stay and one month of physiotherapy. Shortly following this some serious health issues meant Albert was no longer able to do construction, logging or most other work for that matter. It was at this point, when things looked the bleakest, that he decided to start the

antique shop, Log Cabin Antiques. For twenty-five years he ran that business slowly growing it year-after-year. The first few years were pretty tough to say the least but he never gave up. Eventually he grew the business to the point where it became a memorable valley attraction, loved and visited by

thousands of tourists yearly.

Albert never rested on his accomplishments though and was always striving to learn more about antiques and his business. He was deemed by many to be a master antiques dealer who was also known for his fairness and honesty. He loved to share his enthusiasm and knowledge for antiques and the valley’s history with everyone.

For someone who had so much that he could have complained about, Albert complained the least. He radiated gratitude, persistence, and determination. He was always compassionate but never for show. His super sharp memory would enable him to re-run CBC talk shows word for word. He also said what he thought and was thoughtful about what he said. His magic, uniqueness and originality will be missed by many.

Tea Service will be held at 2 p.m. on May 24th, 2014 at the Mackey Residence, Green Acres Mobile Home Park, 8628 Eacrett Road, Dry Gulch, B.C.