Born in Courtenay in 1929, Lawrence’s commitment to community began at an early age and became a defining part of his life. He served as a firefighter and ambulance attendant before becoming Courtenay’s full-time Fire Chief in 1969, a role he held until his retirement in 1995. Even then, his service continued as the department’s Chaplain. Lawrence was also a passionate local historian, working with the local museum and serving on the Courtenay Heritage Committee to help preserve the stories of a community he deeply loved.

Throughout his life, Lawrence invested in young people – through fire safety and first aid education, youth organizations, and the training and mentorship of emerging firefighters and paramedics. His family is carrying that commitment forward through the Lawrence Burns Memorial Bursary, which will support future generations in pursuing training and career development for first responders.

A gift in Lawrence’s memory is an opportunity to help build this lasting legacy and continue his lifelong investment in young people and community service.

Make a gift in memory of Lawrence to the Lawrence Burns Memorial Bursary.

The post In Memory of Lawrence Burns appeared first on Comox Valley Community Foundation.

A graduate of Simon Fraser University with a degree in history, Judy shared her passion for local stories in many ways. For 25 years, she wrote the popular Hunt for History column and hosted a local television program of the same name for 14 years. She was also an author and contributor to several books documenting the history and natural heritage of the Comox Valley. Her commitment to preserving local history extended to 30 years of service on the City of Courtenay Heritage Advisory Commission. Judy was also an early supporter of the creation of the Comox Valley Community Foundation.

Following Judy’s passing in July 2026, her family shared her wish that memorial gifts be directed to the Courtenay & District Museum Fund, held at the Comox Valley Community Foundation.

Through a gift in Judy’s memory, friends, family and community members can honour her lifelong passion for history while helping support the preservation and sharing of the stories that connect us to this place.

Make a gift in memory of Judy to the Courtenay & District Museum Fund.

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Born and raised in Switzerland, Verena’s life took her across countries and cultures before she made the Comox Valley her home. Her experiences helped shape a deep appreciation for language and the opportunities that come from being able to communicate and connect across cultures.

That passion lives on through the Deux Langues Deux Mondes Bursary Fund, held at the Comox Valley Community Foundation. Meaning Two Languages, Two Worlds, the fund reflects Verena’s belief in the value of language learning and supports students as they pursue opportunities to broaden their knowledge, experiences and understanding of the world.

Through a gift in Verena’s memory, friends, family and community members can help carry forward the values that were important to her. Contributions to the fund will help create opportunities for future students, extending Verena’s love of language and learning to a new generation.

Make a gift in memory of Verena to the Deux Langues Deux Mondes Bursary Fund.

The post In Memory of Verena Bryner appeared first on Comox Valley Community Foundation.