On Monday, January 28th we met with Fernie City Council during a Committee of the Whole to present the findings we’d compiled through 12 years of research. Both of us have family roots in the Elk Valley going back as far as the late 1800’s. This project is something we have both become passionate about; truly a project from our hearts.
We thank Nicole for her article in the Free Press, “Fernie May Have Additional Burials Outside of St. Margaret’s Cemetery”. We would just like to clarify that it is not specifically the developers of the Silver Ridge Estates that we have an issue with. To the contrary; Cherished Memories has worked with the developer and will continue to do so as they handle the delicate situation set before them in a professional manner. While our research does indicate possible burial sites in the area of Silver Ridge Estates, our concern relates to lots that presently remain undeveloped as well as additional areas outside of the Silver Ridge development.
Many people have approached us with questions and have taken the opportunity to view our information firsthand. The data we’ve collected includes death records, obituary notices and maps. Anyone is welcome to phone Cherished Memories at 250-423-7944; we are more than willing to share our findings.
John Gawryluk & Corlyn Haarstad
Cherished Memories Funeral Services Ltd.