Thelma, you were one of the many who made me feel at home after I arrived in Canada in the summer of 1966. At the Belleville Lab (actually, the Agriculture Canada, Institute for Biological Control) you were one of a cluster of research staff who held the Lab together as a strong research team in a convivial atmosphere. In particular, you were renowned for hosting wonderful parties with great food and fascinating guests. I was single, at the time, and I used to get a strong feeling that you were trying to get me “teamed up” with one of them. Unbeknown to you and to me, at the time, I had met my wife to be, Lyn, in Toronto.

Then, eight of us came west to the exciting challenges and lifetime experience of the new, rapidly growing Simon Fraser University. I married Lyn, and you have been a very special friend to us and our growing family over these many years.  You have been unique among the Belleville group and, happily, still are enjoying the ambiance and excellence of the University, its staff and students.

Thank you, Thelma, for being that other “light” and perspective for us all. I have benefitted from your wisdom and enjoyed your company and, particularly those fabulous deserts .

Congratulations!

From a fellow “Bug from Belleville”, John M. Webster.