FRANK SQUIRES

 
For many years Squires' Jewellery was a well-known business in downtown Lloydminster, and even more well-known was the owner and manager, Frank Squires. As a jeweller, precious stones were Frank's forte, but he also had expertise in clock and watch repair.

Frank grew up in the industrial area of East Swansea in North Wales, the second of six children.  Close family ties and a strong religious faith helped the family cope with the hard times that befell Wales in the twenties but soon Frank felt he must make a move to better his condition.

Frank emigrated to Canada in 1928 on a harvest excursion with 200 other men looking for work. He worked in several communities in central Alberta. Eventually he arrived in Vegreville and obtained a position in a jewellery store.  Soon he was seriously considering a career in watch repair and jewellery.

In 1937 Frank moved to Lloydminster to open his own Store. In 1940 he married Blanche Hacket, a teacher whom he had met in Vegreville.  Blanc he became his able business partner, but unfortunately she passed away in 1969.

Frank was active in sports all his life, playing rugby and football in his youth and later enjoying curling and golf for many years.  Frank became an active member of the Kinsmen in 1939.  In 1941 he joined the Masonic Lodge where he learned the art of public speaking and in 1967 became Deputy Grand Master.

Frank inherited the Welsh love of music and was blessed with a fine tenor voice.  He started singing in a boys' choir at age ten and is still active in the community senior group, "Lloydminstrels."  Frank has sung in several church choirs in Lloydminster, often performing solo. Many people will remember the Eastern Star Carol Festivals of the 50's and 60's with Frank leading the community singing.

Frank and his present wife, Florence, are retired and live in Lloydminster.  In retirement Frank has written his memoirs in which he vividly describes his boyhood in Wales, and relates many humorous, sad and exciting episodes from his experience as a jeweller.

His strong work ethic, his faith in God, and his desire to help his fellowman have been driving forces in Frank's life.  He has set up scholarships for deserving students both here and in Wales.