PASSING – Hundreds attend celebration of life for former Mayor John Dormer

Family, friends and citizens paid tribute today (April 29, 2017) to former Kamloops Mayor John Dormer, describing him as a devoted family man and hard-working community volunteer.

Close to 300 people attended a celebration of life for the man who sat in the mayor’s chair from 1986-1988 but who also served in many other capacities in the community. Dormer died April 14.

Stories were told of a life well lived — they were sometimes sad, sometimes funny, always admiring.

His constant positive attitude and willingness to help others were enduring themes.

“Never did he have a bad word to say about anyone,” said long-time friend Phil Rickard, who told humorous stories of their times together, including one when a poorly aimed shot from Dormer peppered him with buckshot during a hunting trip.

Cousin Murray Smith said, “He was fiercely loyal to his family and fiercely loyal to his friends… and fiercely loyal to his party,” the latter a reference to Dormer’s allegiance to the BC Liberals.

“He was a very proud Canadian.”

His children, John Jr., Dave and Julie, recounted numerous stories of Dormer’s generosity to others, and his devotion as a father and grandfather.

Dave told of his father’s advice that “You are the captain of your own ship,” while Julie said he possessed “incredible skills as a father.”

“My dad was big on ‘get involved’,” said John Jr.

Mayor Peter Milobar presented Dormer’s wife Marjorie with a City of Kamloops flag, and MP Cathy McLeod presented her with a Canadian flag.

Jim Reynolds emceed the event, held in the Coast Kamloops Hotel and Conference Centre.