Lil and Charles Carnell opened the bakery in Fort St. James in 1940. Even though there were many people situated out at the Pinchi mine, there were still enough residents in town to have made it worthwhile for them to open a bakery. The delightful aroma of their fresh baked products pervaded the area and lured customers for many years.
The bakery closed in 1956 and Lillian began teaching in Mapes School, then on to teach many years in Fort St. James. Lillian and her husband Charles, children Jim, Judy and Jan ran Carnell’s Café situated on what is still referred to by the old timers as “Carnell’s Corner.”
After the family sold the restaurant business to Fran and Charlie Butler, Lillian reopened the bakery which was situated next door to the restaurant. They also rented out apartments above the bakery.
In 1959 Lillian won the seat of Commissioner for the Village of Fort St. James, equivalent to the title of mayor. She held that position for six years, retiring from the post in 1965.
When Lillian had her fill of the cold she retired to Okanagan Falls in a little house near the lake, with full garden on all four sides and plenty of room for her to go for walks. She now resides in Cherry Park Retirement Residence in Penticton.
The family of Lillian Carnell would like to invite all of her friends to her 100th birthday celebration to be held at Cherry Park Retirement Residence, 317 Winnipeg Street, Penticton on June 30, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. If you are unable to attend and wish to send a birthday wish, a wonderful memory or special note you can mail it to Lillian Carnell, #210 317 Winnipeg Street, Penticton, BC V2L 8J9 or email to jangreenfield@shaw.ca. Any special photos may be sent to Jay Greenfield at jog73@shaw.ca