Obituary of Carmel Bakstad

Carmel Muriel Bakstad, age 77 of Cecil Lake, BC, passed away at her daughter and son-in-laws home in Charlie Lake, BC on October 27, 2021.  Carmel was born in Pouce Coupe, BC on April 2, 1944 to Lala and Joseph Fleming.  She grew up on a farm in Cherry Point, AB.

In 1961 she met her lifelong best friend Robert Bakstad of whom she married on April 14, 1962. They homesteaded a farm in Cecil Lake and lived there until August 2021.

In 1977, Carmel took a job with the Cecil Lake CO-OP and worked in both the store and Post Office until 1997. She always spoke highly of her time there and made lasting friendships with her coworkers, some of which she kept in touch with until her passing.

Carmel loved farm living.  You would seldom find her indoors during summer.  She would either be in the field, in the garden, admiring and appreciating their fruit trees, or tending to and spoiling the animals. (Her gentle nature gained the trust and love of every animal that came into her presence). In winter months she enjoyed curling in the Goodlow Curling Rink League.

Carmel was not one for crowds, but thoroughly enjoyed having her time with family and friends.  She had a silent strength beyond words, never complained and never waivered in her love and support for those close to her.

Carmel is predeceased by her son Daniel, her parents Joe and Lala Fleming, her brother Bob, and sisters Etta and Wilma. She is survived by her husband Robert, son Robert, daughter Muriel (Ben), brother Fred, grandson Randy (Jena), granddaughter Lala (Jason) and great-grandchildren Jack, Ben, and Jaxson, sister in-law Agnes (Owen), brother-in-law Harold, and numerous nieces and nephews.

With respect to Carmel’s wishes, there will be no service, but a family gathering will be held at a later date.

Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium