Morse Family

Dr. Morse came from a large family, nine children all together. His father and grandfather were doctors and so were five brothers and one sister. Dr. David Garnet Morse graduated from McGill University in 1910, to return to Laurencetown, Nova Scotia, where his father had practised. He stayed there only for a year, then came west by train. The train he was on crashed, and being the only doctor present, he was called upon to help.

When he arrived in Port Haney in 1912, one of the first things he did was find a house for his fiancé, who was waiting for him to send for her. Their first home was on River Road near the old Brown Bros. Greenhouses. His clinic was in his home, and three of their four children were born in the house. Dr. Morse moved his office twice before settling in his fourth and final location. His final office was purchased in 1932 from Walker's on the corner of North Street and 224th.

The first baby Dr. Morse delivered in the district was Olavi N. Toika of Webster's Corners. Throughout his time here, he delivered babies in varied places such as cars, kitchen tables and boats. In the 1930's, his pay was often a chicken, a sack of vegetables, a block of cheese or other dry goods, as few people had money.

Dr. Morse very involved with the Maple Ridge community, being instrumental in the funding and building of the hospital, and for many years, he worked with the Boy Scout organization. In 1921 he joined the Masonic Lodge and the early '30s saw his entry into the world of politics running with an independent group.

Hugh Morse (Dr. Morse's son) joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1941 at the age of 21. His willingness and bravery throughout his years of service earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross on December 18th, 1944. The honour was bestowed by King George VI, and Hugh's father received a telegram while he was overseas, notifying the family of the honour. Hugh donated his entire uniform to the Royal Canadian Legion, where it's been placed in a special cabinet.

Belle Morse (nee Scott) came to Maple Ridge in 1937 with her brothers, John, David, William (Bill) and parents Cyril and Catherine Scott. She went to high school here, later obtained her degree in music, and became a teacher. Belle met Hugh Morse (March 1st, 1919 - January 5th, 2008) in Grade 10, and the high school sweethearts were married for 54 years. Following his wartime service, Hugh went on to become a dentist. Belle and Hugh had three children together; Colleen, Kathy and Garnet.

Belle was actively involved in the community, especially where music was concerned. As part of an April 26th, 1997 park dedication ceremony, a list of community contributions were named including 15 years as alderman and mayor for a three-year term beginning in 1990.

Kathy Morse, born and raised in Maple Ridge, graduated from Maple Ridge Secondary School in 1969. She sang, danced and acted with her mother in an entertainment group called the "Merry Makers" from the age of seven. One day her father told her that she had money and could either buy a car or get her flying licence. Kathy not only got her private licence but continued on to get her commercial licence and instructors rating. Kathy also followed her mother's footsteps and served as the mayor of Maple Ridge from 2002-2005.

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