ROBERT JOSEPH GROPP

March 11, 1947 — December 11, 2025

Robert Joseph Gropp, known to most as Bob, passed away peacefully at home in Kamloops, BC, on December 11th, at the age of 78, with his devoted wife Eiko by his side. Born on March 11th in Matsqui, British Columbia, Bob was the son of Martha Eugenia (Lundstrom) Gropp (predeceased December 8, 1990) and Clifford Charles Frederick Gropp (predeceased June 17, 1986). He was also predeceased by his siblings, Margaret Josephine Lorette (September 22, 1977) and Daniel Colin Gropp (May 9, 1999).

Bob was a beloved and familiar presence in the Kamloops film and theatre community. Over the years, he managed the Sundown and Skyway Drive-Ins, the Odeon Theatre at 6th and Victoria, and the Aberdeen Mall Cineplex. His unmistakable wit, quick humour, and forever young spirit left a lasting impression on everyone who crossed his path.

Beyond his professional life, Bob was a deeply curious and hands on man, always building, fixing, or learning something new, often in service of others. He found profound peace in nature and contentment in simply being part of the world around him.

Most of all, Bob cherished the quiet, joyful life he shared with his beloved wife, Eiko. Side by side, they spent their days camping, visiting friends, and enjoying the simple rhythms of life together-a partnership marked by devotion, companionship, and enduring love.

Bob is survived by his wife, Eiko Gropp. His sons, Brent Gropp (predeceased by his wife Colleen, July 7th 2021), Darcy Gropp, and Roby Gropp. His grandchildren, Ryan Gropp, Aspen Gropp, and Hilary Gropp. He is also lovingly remembered by his niece Sherrie Lorette, Tracy Lindsay (predeceased October 3, 2025), Jennifer Yankanna (Joe). His great-niece and nephews Olivia Yankanna, Quinton Yankanna and Steven Lindsay.

In accordance with Bob’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. Bob and Eiko extend their heartfelt gratitude to his compassionate community care nurse, as well as the medical teams in Kamloops and Kelowna, for their kindness and support during his time of need. Bob’s warmth, humour, and generous spirit will be deeply missed and fondly remembered, always.

 

HOPE CECILIA HYSLOP ROGERS

November 4, 1942 – December 7, 2025

Hope was born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, and spent her early childhood in the Maritimes and Northern Ontario before her parents, Craig and Ruth Hyslop, moved with Hope, her sister Marion, and her brother Allen to Calgary in 1948, where her brothers Andrew and Mark were later born.

Gifted with a sharp mind and an early love of ideas and debate, Hope earned her BA from the University of New Brunswick in 1963 and graduated from UBC Law in 1966 as one of only three women in her class.

She moved to Kamloops to article and was called to the bar there in 1967. Specializing in family law, she quickly earned a reputation as the person you wanted on your side. In 1970, she married the love of her life, David Rogers. When David became a quadriplegic after a motorcycle accident in 1986, Hope became his strongest advocate and unwavering partner until his death in 2000.

Over the course of her career, Hope worked in several law firms before becoming a sole practitioner. Her practice expanded over time, and she mentored many young lawyers—several of whom later became judges. She was a founder of Legal Aid in Kamloops and was recognized with the designation of Queen’s Counsel. Hope was appointed to the judiciary in 2003 and later to the Supreme Court of British Columbia in 2009, serving with integrity, intellect, and a steadfast sense of justice until retiring in 2017. She then joined the Faculty of Law at Thompson Rivers University, where she continued to mentor and inspire future lawyers until stepping back in 2023.

A lifelong lover of horses—as well as dogs and cats—Hope was an avid equestrian and a cherished presence in her community. She cared deeply about wildlife and water stewardship and participated actively in the Barnhartvale Horse and Hikers Society and the Campbell Creek Water Users Community. Hope followed politics and the economy with relish and took delight in pursuits as varied as carpentry, art, and gardening.

Hope’s generosity was quiet but immense, touching countless people. Known for her open-door policy, her homes in Barnhartvale and on the Shuswap were places of warmth, laughter, great conversation, and spirited debate.

Hope was fiercely loyal to, and immensely proud of her siblings, her nieces and nephews, and her stepchildren. She will be greatly missed.

Mark, Margaret, Allen, Leslie-Anne, and longtime lawyer friend and “soup buddy,” Ken, were instrumental in supporting her during her brief illness. Hope died peacefully at home, surrounded by family.

The family extends their deepest thanks to her devoted care aides from We Kare (Vernon, BC), to Dr. Paul Farrell, and to the Interior Health palliative care team at Royal Inland Hospital. They also gratefully acknowledge the steadfast support of Linda; Jan and Ken; Gene and Joanne; Ted; Donna; Dan; Yvette; and Shirley.

A celebration of Hope’s life will be held in the spring of 2026. In lieu of flowers or cards, donations may be made to a charity of choice.

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Rogers family.

 

SHERI-LYNN BISSONNETTE

September 14, 1968 — December 1, 2025

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce Sheri-Lynn Bissonnette, née Beatty, passed away unexpectedly on December 1, 2025, near Kamloops, B.C. at the age of 57. Sheri will be lovingly remembered by her husband, Michael Bissonnette; sons Jason Purpur (wife Shynal, grandson James) and Trevor Purpur (significant other Kennedy); parents Ross and Betty Ann Beatty; brother Marvin Beatty; former spouse, Kelvin Purpur; and many other in-laws, family members and close friends.

Born on September 14, 1968 in Kamloops, B.C, Sheri was the first of two children for Ross and Betty Ann. Sheri spent her formative years in Chase, B.C. enjoying the beaches of summer and ski hills of winter, always surrounded by friends and family. After graduation from Thompson Rivers University, Sheri spent more than 30 years caring for others as a registered nurse at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops. It was perhaps the perfect job for someone with her giving nature. In her free time, she also volunteered at various organizations, including Emergency Social Services, Operation Red Nose and ushering at Sagebrush Theatre.

After retirement, Sheri kept busy with part-time work at Purity Feed, and a landscaping gig alongside her son, Trevor. Friends and former co-workers have often commented about her warm spirit and ambitious work ethic. She hosted many family dinners for birthdays, graduations and holidays, and traveled to see people she loved, often with her faithful four-legged companion, Ted. She enjoyed kayaking, biking, hiking, golfing, working out at the gym and spending time with friends and family. Sheri was often out-and-about delivering gifts of what she called “just little things” to those she cared about.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Kamloops Alliance Church on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 200 Leigh Road (off Fortune Drive) in Kamloops, B.C. at 11:00 a.m. Those who wish to pay their respects are invited to attend to share memories of Sheri. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sheri’s name to the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia, or the charity of your choice.

 

HELEN WHITE BARNETT (formerly KERR)

March 21, 1939 — December 1, 2025

Helen White Barnett (formerly Kerr), born March 21, 1939 in Edinburgh Scotland to Robert Brown and Helen (Ailie) Brown (née Sutherland), died peacefully in Kamloops Hospice on December 1, 2025 of the complications of pancreatic cancer. She died with grace and contentment at the time of her own choosing. She is survived by her beloved husband Francis, children Ian Kerr, Ailie Kerr and Paula Bridgeman (Graham), and grandchildren Elizabeth Bell, Jake Bell, Ben Manson and William Bridgeman.

Helen and her family moved in 1966 from Edinburgh to Kamloops. She quickly got involved in community organizations, and soon after that, in politics. She was elected to School Board from 1972 to 1978, to City Council from 1980 to1984, and again to School Board from 1988 to 1993. She was chair of the School Board for two terms. The School Board appointed her to the board of the Kamloops 1993 Canada Games Society, and she chaired the 1995 BC Summer Games for Athletes with a Disability.

Helen and Francis enjoyed lots of travel to various parts of the world, most often travelling with, or to see family. She also enjoyed spending time with great friends and walking and socializing with her walking group.

Heartfelt thanks to the wonderful and amazing staff at Kamloops Hospice – your concern and care for Helen and attention to her were greatly appreciated by her and the family. There will be a celebration of life for Helen, details to be advised. The family requests no flowers. Donations, if desired, to the BC Interior Community Foundation or Kamloops Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Service.

 

ROSS PHELPS

September 21, 1950 – October 16, 2025

Ross left us in the early hours of October 16, 2025, after a long and difficult battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He will be remembered fondly as a loving husband, proud father, patient coach, and sage advisor.

Ross left us in the early hours of October 16, 2025, after a long and difficult battle with Parkinson’s Disease. He will be remembered fondly as a loving husband, proud father, patient coach, and sage advisor.

Ross was born in Melville, Saskatchewan, to Herbert and Nellie (Hawley). He was the second of five boys; Starford, Kim, Kevin, and Trevor. He first made his way to Kamloops, from the Prairies, to become the Sports Editor for the Kamloops Daily Sentinel. After retiring as the managing editor, Ross pursued a course of study to become one of the first independent insurance brokers in the region, and to become a certified financial planner. This turned out to be his true calling, and he remained active in this vocation throughout the rest of his life.

Ross was, perhaps above all else, known as a community-minded individual. He frequently would join a sport, or participate in a community group, for a period of time, before invariably seeking a way to serve that organization in some way. As a patron of the arts, he served on the WCTC Board with a focus on fundraising. As a competitive softball player, he soon sought to contribute to that community by serving as the president of Kamloops Slo-Pitch, president of Kamloops Minor Fastpitch, a registered coach, a carded umpire, and frequent tournament coordinator. He was a supportive partner to his wife, Darlene, a teacher with SD73, frequently assisting with events, athletics, or officiating; or most importantly, keeping their kids occupied during report card season. He was an active father to their sons, Jeremy (Stacey) and Jordan (Kelsa). Frequently serving as a coach, referee, or driver to their various activities and sports. He was an avid fisherman, teaching Jeremy a passion he has to this day, and providing Jordan the opportunity to learn patience.

He was a gregarious man. His life was one of smiles and friendly greetings. Well known as a passionate storyteller, having the voice and flare for dramatics one would aspire to. However, he was also very practical and well respected for his counsel. As such, he was appointed by the Governor General to the Employment Insurance: Board of Referees where he served as chairperson for two terms until it was restructured.

Ross’ desired neither pomp nor circumstance and requested a wake to be remembered by his close friends and family where stories were shared cheerfully. His ashes are to be scattered at those places he loved. and with his loved ones.

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Phelps family.

Ross was born in Melville, Saskatchewan, to Herbert and Nellie (Hawley). He was the second of five boys; Starford, Kim, Kevin, and Trevor. He first made his way to Kamloops, from the Prairies, to become the Sports Editor for the Kamloops Daily Sentinel. After retiring as the managing editor, Ross pursued a course of study to become one of the first independent insurance brokers in the region, and to become a certified financial planner. This turned out to be his true calling, and he remained active in this vocation throughout the rest of his life.

Ross was, perhaps above all else, known as a community-minded individual. He frequently would join a sport, or participate in a community group, for a period of time, before invariably seeking a way to serve that organization in some way. As a patron of the arts, he served on the WCTC Board with a focus on fundraising. As a competitive softball player, he soon sought to contribute to that community by serving as the president of Kamloops Slo-Pitch, president of Kamloops Minor Fastpitch, a registered coach, a carded umpire, and frequent tournament coordinator. He was a supportive partner to his wife, Darlene, a teacher with SD73, frequently assisting with events, athletics, or officiating; or most importantly, keeping their kids occupied during report card season. He was an active father to their sons, Jeremy (Stacey) and Jordan (Kelsa). Frequently serving as a coach, referee, or driver to their various activities and sports. He was an avid fisherman, teaching Jeremy a passion he has to this day, and providing Jordan the opportunity to learn patience.

He was a gregarious man. His life was one of smiles and friendly greetings. Well known as a passionate storyteller, having the voice and flare for dramatics one would aspire to. However, he was also very practical and well respected for his counsel. As such, he was appointed by the Governor General to the Employment Insurance: Board of Referees where he served as chairperson for two terms until it was restructured.

Ross’ desired neither pomp nor circumstance and requested a wake to be remembered by his close friends and family where stories were shared cheerfully. His ashes are to be scattered at those places he loved. and with his loved ones.

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Phelps family.

 

FRED SAWADA

October 8, 2025

With great sadness, the family of Fred Sawada announces his passing on Oct 8 2025. Fred lived his 84th year to the fullest, and his family is so appreciative for those years.

Fred is survived by his loving wife, Hellen. He will be greatly missed by his daughter Brenda and son in law Scott Carson. His grandsons, Kaz and Kobe Carson were Fred’s pride and joy, and they are fortunately left with many wonderful memories of their time with “Jiich” at Little Shuswap Lake, working on cars and taking family vacations together. Fred will be also lovely remembered by his younger brother Jack (Louise) and many nieces and nephews.

Fred will be also missed by so many treasured friends. He really appreciated all the visits and laughs.

Fred was sadly predeceased by his son Sheldon in 2009 as well as his parents Kiyeji and Shige, and brothers, Kazutoshi Ogawa (Japan), Dick Sawada and George Sawada.

Dogs were always a huge part of our families’ lives; he will be welcomed by Skipper with a stick to be thrown. Fred, Dick and Jack had the Union 76 stations in Kamloops which were changed to Husky in the late 70s. So many young folks worked and had great experiences at the shop.

Celebrate with us November 9th at 1 pm at the Kamloops Curling Club.

In leu of flowers please feel free to donate to Kamloops Ruff Start Rescue Society or the Kamloops Japanese Canadian Association.

 

CHRISTOPHER DUNCAN ROSE

December 11, 1935 – September 24, 2025

Christopher (Chris) Rose was born in Muswell Hill, North London (Great Britain) along with his twin, Caroline and sister Prue Hildebrand, to Duncan Rose and Marjorie Rose (Sonnenberg). He is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Gine Rose (Tideman); his children Martin, Nicholas (Monica), and Sarah (Don); and his grandchildren Hannah, Ben (Erin, with children Bowen and Maddox), Megan (Mark, with children Jasper and Cooper), Mathew, Louis, Luciano and Cyrus.

Chris was raised in Mutare, Zimbabwe and attended Plumtree, a boys’ boarding school. He later studied at St. John’s College in York, England, where he completed his teacher training. He went on to earn a specialty qualification in teaching students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing at Manchester University, followed by a master’s degree in education from Birmingham University.

Chris then pursued a career in Education for over forty years as a teacher, vice principal and principal on three continents and teaching special education to teachers in university settings in Trinidad, Republic of Armenia, Vancouver and Kamloops.

Even after retiring from teaching, he remained deeply involved in the community, serving on numerous boards and committees, including three terms on the Kamloops Board of Education, the Social Planning Council, the Mayor’s Task Force for People with Disabilities, the United Way Cabinet, and the ASK Wellness Board of Directors. Most notably, he was asked to restart the Giant Steps program for children with Autism, later renamed in his honor – the Chris Rose Centre for Autism. He was also deeply involved in his church, St. Paul’s Cathedral, where he served as a warden, visited patients as a hospital volunteer, and contributed to the Out of the Cold program.

He was the recipient of many awards including, the Order of British Columbia, an honorary doctorate degree from Thompson Rivers University, Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal, the Owl Award from Kamloops School District and City of Kamloops Centennial Medal and Pioneer Spirit Award.

Chris loved spending time with his family, happily stepping into roles such as Easter Bunny or Santa Claus when the grandchildren were young – always ready for an excuse to play. An ardent traveller, Hornby Island became a favourite for family holidays, cousin pranks and group photographs in the sunset. Dinner parties and gatherings of friends saw many an evening spent around the dinner table in joyful fellowship, or on the walking trails in the Walkie Talkie club.

The family would like to thank everyone for their wishes and kindness and a special thank you to the medical staff at Kamloops Seniors Village, Royal Inland Hospital and Overlander Long-Term Care for their unwavering care and attention to Chris in his final chapter of life. The family asks for donations to be made the Chris Rose Centre for Autism, in lieu of flowers.

Together with loved ones, we invite you to celebrate and honor the life of Chris. (A celebration of life was held Saturday, October 25, 2025 in St. Paul’s Cathedral, with a reception in the TRU Grand Hall.)

 

GARRY WORTH

May 22, 1944 – July 25, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Garry Worth, who left us peacefully on July 25, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family after a courageous and private battle with cancer. He was 81.

Garry is survived by his loving wife Susan; daughters Lynda Worth (Ken Dyer) son Jeremy Therrien and Wendy (Tony)Tessari, Aleeza, Dino, Marco, and Sophia; sister Sharon (Wally deceased) Lorz; brother Rob (Mary) Worth and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Mona and Harry Worth.

Garry was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend — someone who loved deeply and lived fully. He met his beloved wife, Susan, in Victoria while she was attending school, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and adventure. Their nearly 60 years of marriage stand as a testament to their enduring partnership.

Garry cherished spending time with his family. Whether he was coaching softball, fixing the riding ring for the Westsyde Trail Riders, building barns for the horses, working on his never ending “Honey do” list, walking his beloved dogs, or simply enjoying quiet moments in the amazing garden Mom and Dad built together, Dad poured his heart into every experience. Later in life, he brought that same joy and devotion to his grandchildren — catching turtles in the pond, texting the family chat to see who would come hangout with him, pulling them on the tube at the lake, and even heading off to Alberta to chase dinosaurs. He was always looking for one of the kids to go catch a Blazers game or watch the mud bogs, eager to share those special moments side by side. His presence made every adventure more memorable, and his grandchildren will always remember him as a source of laughter, curiosity, and unwavering support. He was a constant on many family vacations — whether relaxing on the Beach, or driving everyone around Parksville sharing the places he loved most — the Arlington Pub that he cleaned as a boy, the bowling alley he went to with his buddies, the garage they would go to and fix their cars and especially the giant tree he and his sister Sharon used to climb in Nanoose Bay.

Born in Nanaimo and calling Parksville home, Garry was a proud Islander at heart. In the early 1970s, he moved to Kamloops to help open the Weyerhaeuser mill, beginning a lifelong career as a millwright and labour advocate. He rose to become National President of the Pulp, Paper and Woodworkers of Canada, and later, President of the Confederation of Canadian Unions. His commitment to workers’ rights, social justice and the NDP remained strong, even into retirement. His years snow birding in Mexico brought new adventures and friendships. It was there that he found and rescued Maya, Vinnie and Chuy, who became his loyal companions.

Though we will miss him deeply and love him always, we are endlessly grateful for the time we had with him. His legacy lives on in the lessons he taught, the lives he touched, and the love he gave so freely. Rest easy, Dad. We’ll see you at the lake.

A Celebration of Life We invite you to a gathering to honour the memory of Garry Date: Sunday, August 24, 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Mountain Room TRU Campus Activity Centre, Kamloops, B.C.

This celebration will be a time to share stories, laughter, and memories as we remember the incredible man Garry was. There will be a podium and microphone available for those who wish to say a few words, and a slideshow will play throughout the afternoon. All who knew and loved Garry are welcome. With love, the Worth Family.

 

LILIAN FRANCIS

August 8, 1925– June 23, 2025

With love and gratitude, we share the peaceful passing of our dear mom, Lilian Francis, on June 23, 2025, just shy of her 100th birthday.

Born in Nanaimo, she lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep love, and unwavering devotion to her family. Married for 71 years to our dad, Har, Mom and Dad built a life full of purpose, friendship, and laughter — from their early days developing the Kamloops News to their golden years golfing and spending time with those they loved most. She was the heart of our family — a loving mom, proud grandma to Alysia (Alex), Lori (Brad), Jake (Daniela), and Mark (Shal), and cherished great-grandma to eight.

Her warmth, humour, and gentle presence will be deeply missed and forever remembered. With love, Debi & Doug.

 

 

 

CRAIG COOK (Patrick Craig Cook)

July 17, 1938 – June 22, 2025

In his own words, Craig Cook “checked out” on June 22, 2025 after what he would call  “a great run.”

After a fall in June, Craig required surgery from which the recovery became too strenuous. Craig passed away three days later surrounded by his incredible network of friends and his devoted family.

Craig is survived by his niece Angie (John) Cleveland, his sister Laurel (John) Cross, and his sister-in-law Pat Shannon. He also leaves behind three nieces (Christy, Kath, and Heather) and two nephews (Rob and Michael) and eleven great nieces and nephews.

Craig was born in Regina, Saskatchewan towards the end of World War II. He often talked about his adventures with his younger sister, his uncle Russ who died in the war, his hard-working parents, and the experiences and friendships that influenced his life. The prairie boy in Craig never left. He was forever a fan of the Saskatchewan Rough Riders and anything associated with Prince Albert.

Craig graduated with a Bachelor of Commerce from UBC in 1963 and then married the love of his life, Sandy, in 1965. They made their way to Kamloops where they settled and created a vibrant community. Those first years were busy for the newlyweds. Craig and Sandy worked hard in town during the week. In the evenings and on weekends, they would spend time on their property tending to the land and the animals. Their hard work paid off with a beautiful property, well-loved horses and many students (and all their young family members) experiencing life in the country and the joy of riding. The two lived in Barnhartvale for 46 years, as they rode, competed, and treasured their horses. Craig and Sandy were proud to be part of the BC Cutting Horse Association and the horse community in the Interior.

In addition to his ranch life, Craig lived another busy life in town. He began articling in his early years in Kamloops. In 1969, he received his CA and soon began, what he called, his two careers. The first was forming a partnership beginning with Pickerham Cook to Cook Bryan Hutton McFayden and finally merging into KPMG (Thorne Riddell) in 1987. After retiring from KPMG in 1999, Craig moved to his investment career with Merrill Lynch (Midland Walwyn) and then joined the RBC Dominion Securities team in 2001 until he retired in 2017. After retirement, Craig focused all his energy and love to Sandy as she battled with dementia.

Despite their busy work life and home life, Craig and Sandy were able to fit in many amazing kayaking and camping trips over the years including the Nechako River, the Broughton Archipelago and Haidi Gwaii and enjoyed walking tours throughout Scotland and Newfoundland. After Sandy’s passing, Craig continued his travels. He spent many Christmases in Mexico, travelled to Ontario to visit his family, returned to his beloved Saskatchewan haunts and revisited his favourite southern states. His final trip was a dream come true. In May, Craig embarked on a three-week tour of Europe with his friends Traci and Dawn. They spent five days in Paris, took a train to Rome, travelled to the beaches of Normandy, visited the French Foreign Legion and took a cruise up the coasts of France, Spain, and Portugal. Craig’s bucket list was complete, and his heart was full.

Craig was known in Kamloops by his stylish clothes, his kindness, and his incredible intelligence that spanned from hockey to history, from jazz to rodeos, from football to finances, from the military to politics, the list goes on… He was a devoted Blazers fan, an RIH board member, and was always connected to what was happening in the city. You couldn’t walk down the street with him without stopping to chat with friends, colleagues, local business owners, lawyers, accountants, musicians and restauranteurs – he made time for everyone. His love and commitment to Kamloops was never questioned.

Craig was often viewed as a sophisticated businessman or a tough cowboy, but nothing brought out his soft side like an animal in need. For many years, Craig and Sandy would adopt the shyest cats at the SPCA and provide them with a quiet home. Their final addition to the family was their beautiful cat Hayley who has been spoiled ever since. After Sandy’s passing, Hayley and Craig were inseparable – providing each other the comfort they needed. Hayley is now living with relatives in a similarly quiet and loving home.

Should you wish to make a donation on Craig’s behalf, his favourite organizations were the SPCA and Royal Inland Hospital.

In addition, Craig would want to remind everyone to take care of each other and to live life fully and with gratitude.

 

ARTHUR LEO CHARBONNEAU

August 20, 1939 — April 25, 2025

“The highest forms of understanding we can achieve are laughter and human compassion.”
– R. Feynman

Arthur Leo Charbonneau, aged 85, took his final journey on April 25, 2025. Ever the pragmatist, after suffering a stroke, he mused that there was not much to be done and asked to go home, where he passed surrounded and very much loved by his family. Art was born in Regina, Saskatchewan to Mary and George Charbonneau on August 20, 1939, the second youngest of eight siblings.

He was cared for through early ill health by his older sisters, embarking on a boyhood fueled by a mix of curiosity, mischief and fierce intellect. Whether building and then testing model planes to the point of destruction, or debating religion with the unamused nuns at school, Art always questioned why things were as they were. From his father, he took an early interest in photography which became a life-long hobby.

Art earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Alberta in 1961 and pursued further studies at the University of Minnesota’s renowned St. Anthony Falls Hydraulic Laboratory, specializing in hydraulic model studies. Art returned to Edmonton in 1965 with a master’s degree and as husband to Alice (nee Busch) Charbonneau. Alice had worked briefly as a secretary at the Laboratory before moving to California to take a teaching job.  Smitten by her beauty and resourcefulness, Art courted her and convinced her to marry him. After returning to Alberta, in 1967 Art and his business partner Dick Cooper founded Northwest Hydraulic Consultants Ltd., establishing a lab in a modest warehouse bay where they built the company from the ground up into a world class consulting firm, always with a spirit of camaraderie and good humour. In 1981, Art moved to Kamloops, British Columbia, where he consulted part-time. Art’s passion for public service led him into politics in the late 1980s. In 1991, he was elected to the British Columbia legislature, where he served as Minister of Transportation and Highways, briefly as Minister of Forests, and then as Minister of Education for the NDP.

Married for 58 years before Alice’s death in 2023, Art and Alice raised two daughters and were doting grandparents to three grandchildren. Their house was filled with Grampa’s laughter and love of learning and Grandma’s collection of books and toys, and their RV was always ready to go for a camping adventure. In later years, Art and Alice made their home in Nanaimo, BC, where Art enjoyed computers, gardening, amateur astronomy, crossword puzzles and card games.

Predeceased by Alice, his parents and his siblings, Art is survived by two children, Lynne and Jennifer (Sean). He will always be in the hearts of his grandchildren Makenna, Ethan and Kristin.

We would like to thank the remarkable staff at Astoria Suites at Origin Longwood for their dedication, love and care for our father over the past three years.

The family will host a celebration of life this summer, simple and joyful as per Art’s wishes, with details to be announced.

Art, we are picturing you now, driving off in your red 240Z Datsun, with a TRS-80, bag of pretzels, deck of cards and guitar on board, going to find Alice.

 

MICHAEL EDWARD WARREN

March 25, 1945 – January 17, 2025

PAUL EDWARD YANKO

April 17, 1954 – November 15, 2024

With heavy hearts, the Yanko family announces the passing of their beloved husband, father, and grandfather, Dr. Paul Edward Yanko, who was 70 years old.

Surrounded by love, he peacefully passed away at home in Kamloops on November 15, 2024. After a courageous 10-year battle with a brain tumour, he made the brave decision to end his life with MAiD, choosing a peaceful and dignified exit as he made the great escape. It was a beautiful moment just as he had wished, with family and friends by his side. We shared a farewell tequila shot, listened to his favourite music, and watched him strum his guitar in his final moments with us.

Paul, born on April 17, 1954, at Burnaby General Hospital, was raised by his parents, June and Peter Yanko (predeceased). He spent his childhood on Elmwood Street in Burnaby, British Columbia, where he grew up alongside his older brother, David, his younger brother,Michael (predeceased), and his sister, Deborah.

Growing up, Paul was known for his kindness and for being a good student. That said, he never shied away from mischief, often accompanied by his neighbourhood best friends Dave Mackay and Mike Elder. These extraordinary friendships, aptly named “the Bro,” endured throughout Paul’s life, shaping the amazing man he became.

As a teenager, Paul worked for his father’s company “Modern Tile.” This experience led him to discover his true calling in science, particularly medicine. He embarked on his path to becoming a medical doctor after graduating from Burnaby Central Secondary School in 1972.

Paul, always driven by a “work-hard, play-hard” mentality, met his soulmate, Cindy Yanko (née Collier), at a beach party on the point of his family property in Magna Bay, Shuswap Lake. He knew Cindy was his soulmate and life partner, and they were wed on July 3, 1976 in the Chandelier Ballroom at the Sheraton Villa Inn in Burnaby.

Paul attended the University of British Columbia, where he completed his BSc in Biochemistry in 1976 and his Doctor of Medicine in 1980, followed by his family medicine residency. Later, he served as the president of the BC College of Family Physicians and was awarded an honorary merit for his contributions to the board over the years. He was also nominated to be the president of the British Columbia Medical Association (BCMA, now known as Doctors of BC), but he declined this offer shortly after discovering he had a brain tumour.

Dr. Yanko practiced medicine for 37 years (9 years in Logan Lake and 28 years in Kamloops). Though he enjoyed all areas of his practice, he had a strong aptitude for obstetrics. He always welcomed students into his office, cherishing the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with the next generation of medical professionals. Throughout his career, Dr. Yanko provided exceptional care and compassion to countless patients, earning him the respect and admiration of many. An esteemed colleague within the medical community, Dr. Yanko was known for his approachable and considerate demeanour.

His sudden retirement from practice in March 2015 due to the diagnosis of his brain tumour was a significant loss to the community. Though his medical career provided Paul with purpose, provision, and focus in life, his family was his greatest source of pride and joy.

Paul and Cindy had four children: Daniel, Alexis, Jonathan, and Jessica. Each of them grew up, married, and had children of their own, with Paul becoming a “Papa” to seven grandchildren, the apples of his eye: Daniel married Shannon Rooney (children Greyson Michael and Sienna Rose), Alexis married Noah Feist (children Fletcher Vallan and Delyla June), Jonathan married Brittany Thomson (child Sutton Monroe), and Jessica married Jonny Varga (children Lola Violet and Maverick Paul). Paul was the best Papa to his grandchildren.

Whether playing on the floor or taking them for a “walkabout,” he was always creating unforgettable memories. At the cabin, you could find Papa and the grandkids building the biggest sandcastle at the beach, constructing a mighty dam in the creek, or kicking a soccer ball around in the lawn. His goofy attitude always sparked laughter and joy, and we are deeply grateful for every moment he spent with his grandchildren. His youthful and silly spirit will forever reside within them.

The most challenging period in Paul’s life was when his parents and younger brother, Michael, tragically passed away in a motor vehicle accident in 1997. This profound loss brought lifelong difficulties for the family, yet amidst the grief, Paul discovered a way to honour his family (particularly his brother) by forming the band “The Phoenix.” Paul played Michael’s renowned red electric guitar, the sole surviving artifact from the accident. This guitar continues to be cherished by the family, and we often imagine Paul and his brother reunited, jamming together once again. Playing and mastering the electric guitar was Paul’s daily outlet. He primarily played classic rock songs but also enjoyed learning new ones.

Over the years, his musical connection led him to collaborate with numerous other musicians. Even as his health declined, he continued to host weekly jam nights in his basement. “The Phoenix” performed at various events in Kamloops, including Music in the Park and at the Blue Grotto. Paul will always be remembered as “the Doc of Rock.”

Paul, a man of many talents, was also known as “the Taz,” someone who couldn’t sit still for long, and who yearned to explore the world. Along with Cindy, they embarked on numerous adventures together. His most cherished trips were exploring South Africa, marvelling at the Pyramids of Egypt, and bungee jumping off Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe. Paul’s adventurous spirit led him to hike to the depths of the Grand Canyon, conquer the mountain biking trails of Utah, hike along the West Coast Trail, surf in Nicaragua, and motorbike to Sturges. Even in his later years, he continued cruising around the globe. Altogether, Paul and Cindy visited approximately 30 countries during their travels. Despite all these incredible experiences, Paul always said his favourite corner of the world was “the Ponderosa,” his family cabin situated on the picturesque shores of Shuswap Lake.

Paul was known for his larger-than-life personality. He was a dedicated and focused physician during the week, and carefree and fun on the weekends. Often, these weekends involved theme parties – if you know, you know.

Despite his busy schedule, Paul remained active, renovating his house and cherishing his time with family and friends. There were countless crazy parties and good times, especially at the cabin. Paul was a guide and mentor to us all, with a unique perspective on life. He was a devoted family man and a true loyal friend. He will be deeply missed by his extended family and the countless friends he made over the years. Creating a list of all the individuals who have had a significant impact on Paul’s life would be a never-ending task; please know that you all enriched Paul’s life as we know he did for you. His memory will endure in the hearts he touched, especially his wife Cindy.

You can see Paul in the faces of his children and grandchildren. You can hear him in the epic guitar riffs played by those he inspired. And if you reach out to him, he might just smile back in a rainbow.

In his last weeks, Paul said that life is all about making connections and relationships with others. That, he believed, is what truly matters. And that is exactly what he did. Cindy and family thank everyone for their love and support, showing how much Paul impacted others and how far his reach went.

Paul’s favourite poem: Do not go gentle into that good night Dylan Thomas 1914 –1953

Do not go gentle into that good night,

Old age should burn and rave at close of day;

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,

Because their words had forked no lightning they

Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright

Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,

And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,

Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,

Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.

Do not go gentle into that good night.

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks for donations in Paul’s memory to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation. Messages to the family and photos can be shared through Paul Edward Yanko’s Obituary on the Schoenings Funeral Service’s website.

A private celebration of life will be held for close family and friends. Never forgotten, forever loved.

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Yanko family.

 

On Sunday, July 21, 2024, George Guy Little passed away at 90 years of age at Royal Inland Hospital. George was a single child born on November 5, 1933, at Mrs. Phillips Nursing Home in Kamloops to parents Ellen (Burgess) and John G. (“Jack”) Little. He lived his entire life on his family’s ranch located off Goose Lake Road in the Knutsford community. He attended Stuart Wood School in Kamloops until grade 10, and when his father became blind, he left school to work on the ranch. 

George’s father immigrated to Canada in 1910 and settled in the Knutsford area in 1925. After his father passed, George lived with his mother and ranched alongside his childhood friend, Noel Michell, and his family. George was a generous neighbor, a member of the Kamloops Stock Association, and enjoyed being part of the Knutsford community. He often stayed close to home but enjoyed his trips to the Williams Lake Bull Sale with Noel and Katy Michell, and he enjoyed attending many farm shows with his good friend Frank Ebl. 

George enjoyed ranching and was eager to embrace new approaches to livestock management and infrastructure. He enthusiastically incorporated a Longhorn steer, Tex, into his herd for many years as his marker animal and appreciated the benefits of many different cattle breeds. He crossbred his Horned Hereford herd with Shorthorn, Polled Hereford, Limousin, Murray Grey, Red Angus, and Gelbvieh bulls before many of his neighbors embraced crossbreeding programs. George was always thinking of improvements he could incorporate into his corrals, as well as customizing existing farm equipment and purchasing new equipment. 

George held a natural curiosity for the world. He enjoyed his large collection of science magazines and watched a variety of TV documentaries, which he loved to share with his friends by gifting DVDs and CDs. He embraced the internet as it allowed him access to novel approaches to ranching and unique equipment. He enjoyed woodworking, and many people are still working on his puzzles that he made and gifted to them. George enjoyed people and will be remembered by many for his generosity, his exuberant gift-wrapping skills, mischievous sense of humor, and friendship. 

George enjoyed his bachelor life but also appreciated family and became a much-loved member of the Michell and Ciancone families. He enjoyed his time with friends and often started his day with a few early morning phone calls. Over the years, George appreciated the long-term advice and support he received from his good friends and advisors Mary MacGregor and Harvey Comazzetto, and the help he received from many of his neighbors. He is survived by his cousins Stuart Walker and Allister and Donald McLean. 

Many thanks to Carmen Loschiavo for her care in his later years, the staff at Chartwell Ridgepointe, his team of nurses from Nurse Next Door Home Care Services who facilitated George living independently, and his doctors and nurses at Royal Inland Hospital. George also greatly valued the care he received from Sylvia Chivers in his final years. 

A memorial service will be scheduled later in the fall to facilitate family from overseas attending. Memorial gifts may be made to the Alzheimer Society of British Columbia. Please send donations by cheque to Suite 300-828 West Eighth Ave., Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 1E2, or donate online at alzbc.org. 

You may offer a message of condolence at Schoening Funeral Service for the Little family. 

 

ALFRED (Al) PAUL LaCHANCE

August 11, 1929 — December 24, 2024

Al passed away peacefully at Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home at the age of 95.

He was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, but grew up in Haney, BC.  Al was the oldest of three boys, all of whom became barbers. He went to barber school and apprenticed with Al Clark in his shop in Haney (Maple Ridge). He took up the trumpet at a very early age, and he was a natural. He joined an all-Black jazz band in the early 50’s that played at the Harlem Nocturne and all the sleepy clubs in East Vancouver. He shared many stories of playing with Ernie King and other musicians.

He was also quite the entrepreneur. He built himself a trailer barbershop, which he would tow up into the Fraser Canyon when they had construction sites rebuilding the Canyon Highway. He would work at the job sites cutting hair from his mobile barber shop, and on the weekends, he would park the trailer behind the hotel in Boston Bar and go into Vancouver to play in the jazz band.

Al travelled as a replacement barber for those who were running a one-chair shop. He worked in Dawson Creek, Bralorne, Wells and Ocean Falls. When his youngest brother, David, wasn’t in school, his mother would make him take David with him. During those times, he taught David, who would have been 12, how to drive any vehicle he owned at the time, taught him about guns and how to use them safely, and they would gold pan together.

He and his younger brother, Albert, who was one year younger than Al, would ride the rails across Canada to Toronto. Several times they would jump a freight train, hiding in a boxcar as they made their way across the country. At one point, the brothers decided to open a little roadside cafe in Ft. Nelson Mile 300 on the Alaska Highway and called it “Al’s Steak House”. Apparently, they never sold any steaks, always saying they had just sold out of them. They flew their younger brother David up there (at their mother’s request) to help run the cafe as they also ran the barbershops on the Air Base and the Army Base, which were left over when the U.S. Army rebuilt the Alaska Highway.

In the mid 1950’s, Al and Albert closed the cafe and moved to Prince George and opened up Al’s Barbershop on George Street, which was very successful for them.  Both brothers were good golfers and competitive curlers in Prince George.

Al met the love of his life, Evelyn, in Prince George in 1958. They married in 1959 and had two children, Joseph (Joey) in 1960 and Michelle in 1962. In 1966, they moved to Kamloops, and Al opened LaChance’s Barber Shop in the Plaza Hotel, where he worked until he retired in 2014.

Al decided to try skiing with his daughter, son-in-law and granddaughters when he was 69. On the drive up to Sun Peaks, he picked up a snow boarder who was hitchhiking at Heffley Creek. By the time he arrived at the hill, he declared he wasn’t going to take up skiing – he was going to take up snowboarding!  He did just that, and within two years, he became a certified snowboard instructor teaching up at Sun Peaks.

Al simply loved life. He loved his family, his home, his relatives, friends and neighbours, loved his garden and growing his delicious tomatoes, loved driving his restored 72 Chevelle SS, loved going to work, seeing old customers and meeting new ones, hearing stories and telling stories, jokes and laughing, loved walking home from work after a long day of standing on his feet all day, loved sunny days, loved golfing in the hot sun (it was never too hot for him), loved showing everyone his “new swing” and practicing chipping in his backyard, loved competitive curling and playing pool, loved playing his trumpet with local musicians or along with Miles Davis or Chet Baker blasting from his living room speakers. Al managed to squeeze every drop out of life. He lived a full, happy, remarkable life and will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Al is predeceased by his son, Joseph (1976), and brother, Albert (2014). He is survived by his loving wife Evelyn, daughter Michelle (Mitch) and granddaughters Breanne (Braydon) and Caelan (Justin) and his brother, David LaChance.

Our family would like to thank Dr. Sarah Trudeau for her kind compassion towards Al in his last days.

A celebration of Al’s life will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, friends may wish to donate to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home.

ROBERT (Bob) BERNUFF HUNTER

August 3, 1935 — December 17, 2024

Robert (Bob) Bernulf Hunter, QC, was born in Vancouver on August 3, 1935 to Robert Hunter and Diana Hunter (Clegg). He is survived by his wife Jo-Mary, his daughters Melisa (Ian), and Judy (Rudy) and son Jamie (Jo-Anne) and by his grandchildren Gillian, Aiden, Stuart, Sophie, Ben and Esme. He is survived also by his brother Stephen Hunter (Barbara), sister Sandra Harmel (Lloyd), sister in law Virginia Hunter and sister Joanna Wilkinson.

He was predeceased by his father and mother and step mother Jessie Catherine, his dear aunt Virginia, his wonderful grandmothers Nettie Hunter and Edith Jane Clegg and by his brother Alan D Hunter, QC. He also remembers with affection his mother and father in law, Lorayne and Russell Bell as well as a favourite cousin Caroline Denoon Duncan and husband Russell.

Bob was raised mainly in the Kerrisdale area of Vancouver. He attended Kingsley School for Boys in North Vancouver, Vernon Preparatory School as well as Point Grey and Magee High Schools. He graduated from UBC in Commerce and Law in 1962 and was a member of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity at UBC.

Bob and Jo-Mary were married in Vancouver in September 1962. He articled in Vancouver and in 1963 joined the law firm of Fulton and Co in Kamloops where he practiced for many years. He was a Bencher of the Law Society of BC and in 1982 he was appointed Queen’s counsel. In 1987 he was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers.

In December of 1991 he was appointed a judge of the BC Supreme Court. He was for several years a Director of the University College of the Cariboo Foundation (now Thompson Rivers University).

Bob was a long time member of St Paul’s Cathedral in Kamloops and for many years the Registrar and then Chancellor of the Anglican Diocese. He was also a coach of the Kamloops South Shore Junior Boys Soccer Association in the 1980’s in which he loved coaching Jamie and his friends.

Bob retired as a judge in late 2002. Bob and Jo-Mary were blessed with the opportunity to travel the world: Asia, Europe (including 9 trips to Ireland!), North Africa and all over North America.

Bob and Jo-Mary’s family life was a happy experience. Kamloops was a wonderful place to live and enjoy the seasons and the great outdoors.

Bob completed his earthly journey on December 17th, 2024 surrounded and upheld by his family in love in the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice Home.

A service of celebration of Bob’s life will be held at 11am on February 17th, 2025 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Kamloops, BC.

No flowers by request, donations to Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice Home or St. Paul’s Cathedral would be graciously accepted.

 

SHEILA PARK

May 28, 1948 – August 15, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of our beloved (Aunty) Sheila Park. After a long battle with her health, Ms. Sheila Park peacefully left us on Thursday evening, August 15, 2024.

Sheila was born on May 28, 1948, in Colne, Lancashire, England. At age four, her family — father, mother, and sister — immigrated to Canada. Her father, an engineer with the Canadian Air Force, moved the family across the country, from east to west throughout her childhood.

Sheila graduated from the Sydney Academy on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and earned a teaching degree in Home Economics from the University of Manitoba. Her teaching career began in Fraser Lake, BC, but she found her true calling in kindergarten education in Kamloops, BC — a community that became her home for the next 50 years.

In 1973, Sheila began teaching kindergarten at Arthur Hatton Elementary. Her career took her to Beattie Elementary, George Hillard Elementary, and David Thompson Elementary. Her passion for education led her to work in special education and a desire to pursue a PhD in the field. In 1995, she moved to Vancouver to focus full-time on her PhD studies, but her education was suddenly interrupted when she was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Sheila faced this challenge with courage, dedicating time and resources to supporting the MS Society.

Sheila was also a committed social justice activist, spending many of her days fighting for issues she was passionate about. She played a crucial role in the Friends of Riverside, working endlessly and successfully to prevent a development that would harm the park’s beauty. She was actively involved with the Kamloops Heritage Society and the Square at Saint Andrews, often seen setting up tables of goodies for donations. She even extended her efforts beyond her community by volunteering over the years with Emergency Social Services, where she supported residents throughout BC in securing temporary housing as wildfire issues increasingly burdened the province.

Politically engaged, she was a vocal advocate within the Kamloops Teachers’ Association, lending her voice to many concerns. From 1980 to 1983, Sheila served as president, and knowingly became the go-to person for any teacher concerns. In addition, as a member of the BC Teachers’ Federation (BCTF), she was the person to contact if you had any questions, “Go ask Sheila Park!” was a commonly heard expression. Even after retirement, Sheila stayed connected with the BCTF as a member of the Retired Teachers’ Association.

Sheila was also a lifelong supporter of the NDP, backing many candidates and causes over the years. Her strong leadership led to many roles, including serving as strata president at her own residence, Manor House, and contributing to the Kamloops Heritage Society, Kamloops Antique Club, and Heart and Stroke Foundation. The list goes on and on — if you had a concern or a cause, she was the person to call. She would let you begin your story and then promptly interrupt you with, “Stop right there. Go get a pen and paper!” you knew right then you had her full attention and things were going to be alright.

Sheila had a deep passion for travel, often embarking on adventures with her closest friends. Whether exploring distant corners of the country or cruising around the globe, Sheila loved to share her experiences. She delighted in reminiscing about her travels with everyone around her. If you were planning a trip, Sheila was your go-to source for travel recommendations, safety tips, and, of course, must-try foods from around the world. Her insights and enthusiasm made her a cherished guide for all things travel-related.

More than traveling, Sheila loved her friends and family members wholeheartedly, never missing an opportunity to show her admiration and support. If you were fortunate enough to know her, you were probably on her gift list. She was known to always have something for everyone — even brand-new members to her inner (and outer) circle. Sheila was also known to crochet baby blankets for any new little one that came into her bubble; in fact, donating many to the Royal Inland Hospital for new babies so they were warm and cozy upon arrival into the world.

Sheila leaves behind her niece Leslie Smale (Dean Smale), nephew Dave Park (Cara), great-nieces Kimberly Park (Brendan) and Kelsie Smale (Earl), great-nephew Keenan Rose (Kaitlin Rose), treasured great-nephews Nash and Chet Rose and many other relatives across Canada and England that were dear to her. She loved them all dearly, as they did their Aunty Sheila. Sheila is predeceased by her father, Francis John Park, mother Jean Park, and sister Susan Park.

Sheila’s final days were surrounded by friends and family who visited her in the hospital, sharing stories, love, and respect. Her presence will be profoundly missed, but her legacy of kindness and activism will continue to inspire those who knew her.

A celebration of life for Sheila Park will be held on Sunday, November 10, 2024 from 1-3 pm at Delta Hotels by Marriott, 540 Victoria St, Kamloops. Please join us for tea and treats.

 

LEO ‘ROLF’ TIMMERMANS

February 24, 1931 – March 22, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Leo “Rolf” Timmermanns, on March 22, 2024; he passed with his daughters by his side. Rolf will be greatly missed by Hertha, his wife of 62 years, his daughters, Ula Dombrosky (Ken) and Ilsa Jessup (Brad), his grandchildren, Erin and Gibson Dombrosky and Leah and Adam Jessup, as well as his family overseas.

Rolf was a true self-made man. He was born in Augsburg, Germany, on February 24, 1931. As a child living through WWII, he learned resilience. His motto was “never, never, never give up.” After the war, Rolf attended agricultural college, but was unable to work his dream job as a forester because he was deemed too short. With few options available in post-war Germany, Rolf chose to immigrate to Canada. He arrived in Halifax with $50 in his pocket and limited English skills, but he proved himself with his hardworking nature.

After a year working on a dairy farm in Perth, Ontario, Rolf and a friend drove across Canada in pursuit of new opportunities. Their journey came to an end in Merritt, BC, when their car broke down. Rolf found a job at Douglas Lake Ranch, and over the years, he advanced from farmhand to bookkeeper. During this time, he convinced his long-time penpal, Hertha, to come to Canada.

They met in person for the first time at the Kamloops train station, as Rolf was to drive Hertha to Vancouver for her new job. Instead, much to the surprise of their families, Rolf and Hertha got married upon reaching the coast, ultimately settling down at Douglas Lake.

Living at the ranch provided many great opportunities for a growing family, but eventually, it was time for Rolf to reinvent himself again. The family moved to Kamloops and after a year, Rolf was working at the Kamloops News Advertiser as their bookkeeper. He was subsequently offered a position with the newspaper’s ownership group; always one to trust in his own abilities, he accepted. The group would later sell to Southam Newspapers, with Rolf staying on as the publisher of the Kamloops News.

Meanwhile, Rolf was thinking about a new future: in 1987, he decided to take early retirement which gave him more time for fishing and his newfound hobby, golfing. Hertha and Rolf enjoyed travelling to Palm Springs with friends, and to Europe to visit relatives. During retirement, Rolf continued to keep up with current affairs, the stock market, and technology. Right to the end, he was interested in computers and how things worked. He never thought anything was too difficult to try.

Rolf was an opinionated and generous man, quick to anger and quick to laughter. Throughout his life, he did things his way, but family always came first. If a family member asked for a favour, his answer was invariably “absolutely.” He will be dearly missed.

We extend our sincerest gratitude to the Interior Health Palliative Home Care team (especially Tara) and to the staff at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home. We would also like to acknowledge the compassionate care shown to Rolf over the years by Dr. Wiltshire and his office assistants. As per Rolf’s request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations to the BC Children’s Hospital would be appreciated.

 

GIOVANNI ‘JOHN’ DeCICCO

December 7, 1944 – January 23, 2024

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Giovanni (John) DeCicco on January 23, 2024 at 79 years of age. He was predeceased by his father and mother Lorenzo and Carmela DeCicco and his brother Domenic DeCicco.

He will be lovingly remembered and deeply missed by his wife Darlene and their children Deborah (Trevor) Bonderud, Lorenzo (Dana) and Michael (Deanna) DeCicco. John will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren Veronica, Cole and Matthew Bonderud, Fiorella, Francesca, Madalena, Santino, Cristiano and Mia DeCicco, his brother Nick (Linda) DeCicco and sisters Dora (Ralph) Sherbo, Mary (Jim) Marchuk, nephews, nieces, many other relatives and special friends.

John was born in Sannicandro (Bari) Italy, immigrated to Canada in 1959 and arrived in Kamloops with his mother, sisters, and brothers to join their father who was already in Kamloops. John attended St. Ann’s Academy in Kamloops, Hamilton High School in North Vancouver, and then apprenticed as a barber at the Continental Barber Shop on Commercial Drive in Vancouver. He received his barbering license in 1962 in Vancouver and then returned to Kamloops in 1963 where he met Darlene. In October of 1965 they married and John opened up his own barber shop the Continental Barber Shop.

John was very involved in the community over the years volunteering for numerous organizations and fundraisers. In the mid-sixties John was President and a founding member of the Thompson Valley Kiwanis Club. He was a Life Member, Past President, Treasurer and Director of the Colombo Lodge for over 40 years. He was also a Level 4 Amateur Soccer Referee and Coach for many years, as well as being President of the Nor Brock Youth Soccer Association and very involved with Kamloops youth soccer. John was a faithful Purser and Knight for the 4th Degree Assembly 0033 Knights of Columbus. He was also Parish Council Chair for Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish and finance committee member for Sacred Heart Cathedral. John was also very involved with Our Lady of Perpetual Help School and Parish fundraisers. In 1999 John was elected a Councilor for the City of Kamloops and served until 2011. He was a Director of the Thompson Nicola Regional District, Vice-chair of the Royal Inland Hospital Board and on various committees.

A Memorial Mass will be held and celebrated by Bishop Joseph Phuong Nguyen, Monsignor Gerry Desmond, Father Andrzej Wasylinko and Reverend Father Derrick on January 31, 2024 at 11:00 am at Sacred Heart Cathedral with a reception to follow at the Colombo Hall.

Condolences can be sent to the family by visiting http://www.schoeningfuneral service.com

Schoening Funeral Services is entrusted with arrangements.

 

 

Bill is survived by his 3 children Shelley St. Pierre, Suzanne (Peter) Lys, Bill Jr. (Dori) Bilton, grandchildren Lindsay (Nando) Santos, Brad St. Pierre, Alex Lys, Branden Lys, Julia Bilton, and Josie Bilton. As well as two great-grandchildren Damian & Cecilia Santos. Also surviving him are his sisters Nonie (Don) Porrier, Glenis (Dave) Beaubier and Lorelei (Greg) Thorp.

He was predeceased by his sister Lynn (Al) Niles and brother James (Heather) Nelson.

Bill lost his high school sweetheart and love of his life Bev in 2015.

Bill will be sadly missed by many.

“A Dad, A Friend, A Mentor!”

A Celebration of Bill’s Life will take place on Saturday, April 27th, 2024, at 1:00pm at The Dunes Clubhouse in Kamloops, BC.

You may offer a message of condolence at Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services for the Bilton family.

 

OGDEN (NEE KULLMAN), Barrie Jacqueline

January 5, 2024

Barrie Ogden, nee Kullman, was born in Vancouver but the years of her life were in Wynyard, Saskatchewan, where her sister Avril Leigh was born. The family moved to Langley in the mid 50’s, where mother Avril was a nurse at the Langley Hospital and her father Rudy opened Langley Menswear.

Barrie completed her formal education at the University of BC, earning a degree in Library Science. She worked as a Librarian in London, Ontario, where she met her first husband Dana Campbell. They moved to Kamloops for the mayors Cliff Branchflower and Kenna Cartwright.

After retirement, she moved to Logan Lake, where she lived with her partner Bill Cook. These were some of the happiest years, until Bill passed in 2016. Barrie remained in Logan Lake with her dogs as her main companions, maintaining contact with her sister Leigh. Barrie passed in her sleep at her sister’s home on January 5, 2024. She is survived by her sister, Avril Leigh Moore, and 6 nieces and nephews.

A Funeral Service will be held January 25, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Kamloops United Church, 421 St Paul St, Kamloops, BC V2C 2J7.

 

JUDITH CHRISTINE NAYLOR

February 9, 1937 – January 10, 2024

Sadly, Dr. Judith Naylor, a highly respected Pediatrician, in Kamloops, passed away suddenly on January 10, 2024, with a good friend at her bedside. She was predeceased by her parents, William and Ethel Naylor and her brother, Derek Naylor. She leaves behind many close friends.

Judith was born February 9, 1937, in Banbury North, County of Oxford, England. She graduated from high school and went into medical school in England. After completing her medical degree at the University of London, she went on to complete an internship at Kings College. Before leaving England, she did several diplomas relating to Child Health.

Being eager to become a pediatrician, she emigrated to Canada and started a residency program in Pediatrics at Vancouver General Hospital.  Her 5-year residency training also took her to Ontario, Saskatchewan and Ohio.

After completing her residency, she moved to Kamloops where she spent her entire medical career caring for children and their families. Once as head of the department of Pediatrics, she was instrumental in starting a Neonatal Intensive Care program at Royal Inland Hospital.

In her early years she was a competitive swimmer. She lived for her dogs and over the years she enjoyed the company of many female black Labrador Retrievers.  She was always interested in everything to do with her homeland.

She loved the outdoors.  In her spare time, she enjoyed cross country skiing, hiking, fishing and grouse hunting. Her favorite vacation was an annual getaway to the Chilcotin to camp and hunt grouse.

At her request, there will be no service. In lieu of flowers, donations to one of the following: BCSPCA, Food Bank, RIH Foundation would be appreciated in memory of Judith Naylor.

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Naylor family.

 

PETER GEORGE NETHERWAY

April 17, 1942 — January 3, 2024

Born April 17, 1942, in Windsor, Ontario, and passed away on January 3, 2024, in Kamloops, BC. It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Peter George Netherway on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, at Royal Inland Hospital, Kamloops, British Columbia. Pete was born in Windsor, Ontario, the beloved son of the late George & Simone (Lacas) Netherway.

Pete is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Gina (Dawn Higgins) Netherway, of Kamloops, BC. He is also survived by his daughter Tobi (Monty) and granddaughter Kodi, son Chad, son Paul and granddaughter Chloe from Shorts Lake, Nova Scotia. Additionally, Pete is survived by his beloved sister and brother-in-law, Suzanne and Bill Lancaster, along with nephews Ross (deceased), Brian (Lori Ann), John (Patricia), Peter (Jodie), Garner (Lyndsay), Parker (Kim), nieces Rhonda (Bob), Donna (Michael), Laura (Steven), and many grandnieces and nephews. He is also survived by brother-in-law Jim Higgins, nephews Troy (Wendy), Drew (Heather), nieces Tracy and Courtney (Shaun), and grandnieces and nephews.

Pete graduated from RCMP Depot in Regina, Saskatchewan, at age 19 and was posted in Truro, Nova Scotia. He traveled extensively with transfers across Canada, finally settling in Kamloops, BC. He earned his Bachelor of Arts with Honors remotely through the University of Manitoba while running the Detachment in The Pas, Manitoba. Pete worked for Migratory Birds and, along with Bob Teather, started the Manitoba RCMP Underwater Dive Team. After 35 years with the RCMP, he retired as an Inspector and served as the CEO of Kamloops Crimestoppers for 10 years.

He was an avid fisherman, hunter, diver, golfer, skier, snowmobiler, baseball enthusiast, motorcyclist, and swimmer. He was affiliated with the local Masonic Lodge, a Rotarian, drove the Cancer Car, worked as a logging truck driver, and loved singing with a beautiful voice. Pete was larger than life and

enriched the lives of everyone he touched. He and Gina enjoyed weekly drives, dining out, admiring views, and sharing pictures until his mobility declined.

They spent winters in Palm Desert and part of summers at the family cottage in Nova Scotia until Covid restricted their activities. The family acknowledges all the doctors, nurses, and care aides at Overlander, Ponderosa, and RIH who provided exceptional care and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held on April 17, 2024 (Pete’s 82nd Birthday) from 2 – 4 pm at a location to be determined. The event will be streamed so those unable to attend can view the webcast and archive it for delayed viewing. There will also be an option to download the event to DVD for a permanent keepsake.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com.

 

FRANK ERNEST ENDERSBY

January 15, 1934 – December 24, 2023

We regret to announce the passing of Frank Ernest Endersby Jr., on December 24, 2023. Born as Jack Gillespie on January 15, 1934, in Port Arthur Ontario, and adopted at birth by two of the best parents in Canada, Ruth and Frank Endersby Sr.

Frank is survived by his daughters, Susan and Patricia Endersby. He is also survived by many relatives and many close friends in Canada, USA, and Britain. Frank was pre-deceased by his loving wife of 65 years Doreen Ada (nee Hutchinson) Endersby, mom, Ruth Endersby, dad Frank Endersby Sr., in 1963 and more recently by his very special black lab friend Abby.

He graduated from Senior Matric at KamHigh in 1952 and entered an apprenticeship at BC Tel where he was employed until he retired in 1988. Frank was always musically inclined and played bass in the high school, rube band, City of Kamloops, Elks bands, and also piano. He loved gardening, building, fishing, and enjoyed many years at the family cabin at Lac Le Jeune. Many fishermen and tourists enjoyed his accordion music from the front deck. Frank and Doreen were very fortunate to spend close to 30 winters in Palm Springs, California. Frank spent several years active in coming and scouting for the Kamloops United church. He was also a past master of Kamloops, Masonic Lodge, No. 10.

I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown. And he replied, go out into the darkness and put your hand in the hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than any unknown.

No service by request. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation in memory of Frank Endersby would be appreciated.

You may offer a message of condolence at Kamloops Funeral Home for the Endersby family.

 

OWYN BENJAMIN McINNIS

January 11, 2001 – November 29, 2023

We are absolutely heartbroken to tell you that on November 29, 2023 our incredible boy Owyn Benjamin McInnis was killed in a horrific fatal multi vehicle crash in Kamloops, B.C.

Owyn was just shy of his 23rd birthday, born January 11, 2001, in Guelph, Ontario. He came into this world full force and never stopped. As an adventurous kid and full of curiosity he wanted to always be on the go. Owyn fell in love with sports, playing hockey and lacrosse at a very young age and moving through the ranks. Road trips, tournaments and arenas were so much a part of his life.

From the Guelph Jr Storm, Guelph Regals, J.F.Ross high school teams to Hamilton Smash volleyball, Mohawk College Men’s Mountaineers Volleyball and landing at TRU Men’s Varsity Volleyball team in Kamloops, B.C. Owyn was a vibrant fun loving, inspiring young man with Incredible dreams to play university varsity volleyball out west, which he accomplished. Owyn’s life experiences created the young man of today. His summer adventures on the Thom farm in Almonte had him appreciating life on a much grander scale. Oh, those stories. Summers landscaping taught him about hard work and then he would escape to a beach volleyball court with his dad and friends.

Owyn had beautiful athletic talents and man, was he smart. Drove us nuts how brilliant he was. As parents, we were so proud how he conducted himself in life and how he showed so much compassion for others. His quick wit, sense of humour and dancing on the side had everyone smiling. His family affectionately called him “Oj” a sweet nickname his sister gave him very early on and it stuck. He loved to banter with his big sister Brielle they would both be in stitches for hours about their music, chats about sports and their selective adulting skills. As parents, we wanted Owyn to enjoy whatever brought him joy. He started to become creative in the kitchen the last few years and even set up an Instagram page dedicated to his creations. As well, along with his fiancé Amber they would read children’s’ stories on YouTube for their niece Josie for her to enjoy when they were not close by.

Owyn was head over heels in love with Amber. They worked together the last two summers, had multiple daily conversations to keep connected during a long-distance relationship and attending school. Their bond will never be broken, as they were completely intertwined.

He was attending Thompson River University in Kamloops, B.C., taking an undergrad in psychology, and recently decided to enter into the teaching field to educate at the high school level. Owyn was a 3rd year varsity team member with the TRU Varsity Men’s volleyball team. This team was a brotherhood, a family, a bond that only the boys on this team could describe. He loved sharing their road trips, their dedication to being part of the community and team bonding stories with his family.

Owyn dearly loved his parents Sheldon McInnis and Erin Walter, his beautiful sister Brielle and her fiancé Matt Michael and adored with his whole heart his fiancé Amber Wingenbach and family dog Callie/Fish. Grieving as well, Uncle Andy McInnis(Heather) and Aunt and Uncle Karina and Brad Zimmerman with cousin Susie. Future in laws, Dean and Angela Wingenbach, Rachel, Dustin and Josie Daniels, Evan and Fatima Wingenbach. Predeceased by grandparents Michael McInnis and Susan and Derek Walter. Many close dear friends and extended family are mourning as well too many to name.

He knew how much he was loved by family, close dear friends and his team. Owyn lived full out. He loved life. Anyone he knew smiled because they knew him. It is extremely important to us as a family that his legacy lives on. A scholarship program has been established at TRU in his name, Owyn McInnis Memorial Men’s Volleyball Athletic Award. Please consider donating to https://www.tru.ca/giving/give-now.html

We would like to acknowledge and truly say thank you the first responders who swiftly took action at the scene, to transporting Owyn to the ER, the incredibly skilled medical professionals who worked on him. Dr Brandi Read and Coroner Jenni, we can not express our gratitude enough knowing Owyn was in the best hands and truly taking the time to meet with us. We are blown away by the outpouring from TRU. From Head Coach Pat, AD Curtis and all departments, teammates, trainers and their families that have been involved in handling this tragic situation with the great compassion and dignity. Thank you for all the texts, calls, notes and reach out across the nation, our family is in incredible shock however can feel all love that is being sent our way.

Resting at Gilbert MacIntyre and Son Funeral Home, Hart Chapel, 1099 Gordon St., Guelph (519-821-5077). Cremation has taken place. Family would like to invite friends and relatives to a visitation on Saturday, December 9, 2023, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. followed by a Memorial Service in the funeral home’s Hart Chapel at 2:30 p.m. Those who are unable to attend in person can watch the Memorial Service via a livestream link. Click on the “Join Livestream” button below.

You may offer a message of condolence at Gilbert MacIntyre & Son Hart Chapel for the McInnis family.

 

KEN GILLIS

November 10, 1943 – September 13, 2023

Kenneth Warren James Gillis died on Wednesday, September 13, 2023, at Sechelt Hospital. He was born on November 10, 1943 in New Westminster, B.C., to Margaret and Warren Gillis. The family lived in Surrey. Ken graduated in 1962 from Queen Elizabeth Secondary School, and in 1982 received an L.L.B. from the University of Victoria. He married Rosemary Riley in 1964; they had two children, Carole and Charlie. His second marriage, to Shelly Lindsey, ended in 2002.

Ken led a varied and enterprising life, driving a concrete mixer, launching a successful towing business and selling Mack trucks. He practised law in Kamloops before purchasing and developing a marine landing on the B.C. coast. Ken returned to the Interior in the early 2000s and won a seat on the Thompson-Nicola Regional District board, where he later served as chair. He championed numerous initiatives, including volunteer fire services, agricultural and rodeo groups and branches of the Royal Canadian Legion, an organization to which he belonged. He was vocal, sentimental, opinionated, fun-loving and unafraid.

Ken is survived by his wife of three years, Linda Brown; children, Carole, and partner David Comrie; and, Charlie, and wife Judy; and grandchildren, Tavish, Portia, Isabel and Cameron. He is predeceased by sisters, Donalda and Joan.

There will be a service of remembrance at the Hilltop Room of the Coast Hotel and Conference Centre, 1250 Rogers Way, Kamloops, on Saturday, October 14, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. A reception will follow.

Those wishing to contribute in Ken’s memory could donate to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Canada.

 

DOROTHY PATRICIA ‘PAT’ RICHMOND

1936 – 2023

It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Dorothy Patricia (Pat) Richmond. She is survived by her husband, Claude, children Valerie, Craig and Jeffrey, grandchildren Carl and Taylor, and brother Bruce.

Pat was born in Winnipeg in 1936, where she met Claude, her husband of 65 years. Claude was in the RCAF and, after he left the air force, they made their home in Kamloops.

As well as raising an active family, Pat was also involved in charity work. She was a graduate of a business college in Winnipeg which was a natural fit for the volunteer work she did for the Canadian Cancer Society for 25 years. She also volunteered with the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts and in the office of AE Perry School.

Pat was also intensely involved in her husband’s various political campaigns and accompanied him during his many duties both in BC, as well as around the world. She loved meeting people from all walks of life and always charmed those lucky enough to interact with her.

Those who met Pat were instantly drawn to her warmth and wonderful sense of humour. She was a marvelous cook and was always elegant, whether she was having dinner with the Queen or hotdogs at a campout.

We want to especially thank all the staff at Pinegrove Care Centre for their gentle and loving care of our beloved Mother and wife during the last of her life. She also expressed to us her gratitude to those who looked after her.

A memorial service will be held on September 16th at 2PM, in the West Highlands Community Centre. 1185 Links Way, in Aberdeen.

 

CLIFFORD GORDON BRANCHFLOWER

January 29, 1932 – February 11, 2023

On 11 February 2023, freeman of the city Clifford Gordon Branchflower passed away at the age of 91 with his family surrounding him.

Cliff was born January 29, 1932 in a small cottage hospital in Simpson, Saskatchewan. He was the youngest of nine children of Norman and Mary (Hunter) Branchflower, eight of which lived to maturity.

Unable to harvest a crop for seven years, Cliff’s parents moved the family to Wainwright, Alberta, where they lived until 1943, and Cliff attended school in Wainwright. In that year the family relocated to the Ardrossan area east of Edmonton. After completing Grade 9 in a one-room school two miles from the family farm, Cliff attended Fort Saskatchewan High School, achieving Junior Matriculation in two years.

After working for the summer of 1949 as a lifeguard/steam room attendant at Miette Hot Springs near Jasper, Cliff became an apprentice at a weekly newspaper in Edson, moving the next year to Yellowknife, NWT. In 1950, he joined the Canadian Army and undertook training at Camp Borden, Ont., as an Officer Cadet. After coming to a mutual belief with Cliff that he was “unlikely to become an efficient officer,” the army released him, and he began work at a weekly paper in Streetsville, Ont., a community later swallowed up by Mississauga.

After two years in Streetsville, Cliff returned to Edson, Alberta, where he met the love of his life, Ruth Smillie. The couple were married October 23, 1955, and spent several months in Kitimat. In 1956, they came to Kamloops, where Cliff spent the next 31 years in the composing room of the Kamloops Sentinel, which went out of business in 1987, and Ruth taught school for a few years before taking up a career as a music teacher out of their home.

Cliff began a career in public life when, in 1961, he became a trustee on the board of what was then School District 24. After 15 non-consecutive years as a trustee, five as board chairman, in 1980, he was elected to Kamloops City Council as an Alderman, serving eleven years in that capacity. In 1991, he was elected Mayor in a by-election following the death of Mayor Kenna Cartwright. He was re-elected Mayor in 1993 and 1996. After retiring from City Hall, Cliff and Ruth served an 18-month mission in Thailand for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, after which the couple became full-time grandparents to their nine grandchildren.

After Ruth’s death in 2021, Cliff spent his time visiting with his family and caring for his pet cat, Lucky.

Cliff will be remembered by his family as a man of integrity that was dedicated to serving his fellow men and women both publicly and privately. Never one to seek the limelight, he rendered assistance to those in need without wanting any credit for his good deeds. He was crystal clear in his devotion to the love of his life, Ruth, and since her passing has been eagerly awaiting their reunion in heaven. We take comfort in knowing that they are together again, and knowing that we will see them again as well.

Cliff is survived by his daughter Alison (Rick) Steffler and their two sons, Ty and Cole of Kamloops, by his son Wally (Shaunna) of Kamloops, their daughter Melissa of Lethbridge; daughter Kelsey (Brock) Olsen of Kamloops; son Ben (Brooke) of Saratoga Springs, Utah; daughter Riley of Lethbridge; daughter Denae (Tyler) Platts of Rexburg, Idaho; daughter Kara (Preston) Nicholas of Provo, Utah and daughter Hayley of Rexburg, Idaho. He is also survived by great-grandchildren Olivia and David Branchflower of Saratoga Springs, Utah, and Isaac and Makenna Olsen of Kamloops. He is also survived by an older sister Cora, who will turn 101 in a few weeks.

Service will be held Saturday, February 18, 11:00 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 2165 Parkcrest Avenue.

Messages for the family can be left at the Kamloops Funeral Home website.

 

BERNARD (Bernie) MILL ROTHENBURGER

May 12, 1940 – August 12, 2022

Bernie left us last summer after a brief illness and a life full of accomplishment.

Born in Vancouver, he grew up in Oliver in the South Okanagan, where he excelled in sports including basketball, golf and curling, and became an excellent horseman as well. He had a strong social conscience, and many a dinner, while enjoying his mom’s fine cooking, was spent debating politics, philosophy and religion with his dad, who had grown up during the Great Depression.

After graduation from high school in 1958, Bernie obtained a B.Ed. degree at the University of B.C. He was the first one in his family — which included almost two dozen aunts and uncles — to graduate from university.

He began his career in Lytton, teaching English and History, then became a school vice principal and principal in Logan Lake, Westsyde secondary, Sahali and KamHigh. He was a respected and beloved educator, with many students and colleagues benefitting from his knowledge, compassion and wisdom.

In a principal’s address to a graduating class, he once told his students, “Education is a personal journey, we all take it, and it presents itself in many forms and in all walks of life…. It has everything to do with the passion you bring to your life, and what you learn as you go.”

Bernie never lost his love of education or his willingness to listen and learn.

After a time as a faculty associate at Simon Fraser University, he met and married Jo-Ellen Faulkner in 1972. He then became a childcare worker for the Ministry of Resources but soon went back to the classroom. He, Jo and the kids lived in Australia in 1985-86 when Bernie took on an exchange teacher assignment.

In addition to his many other interests, he was an avid outdoorsman, and, at one point, he and Jo took over the operation of the Wendego Lodge fishing and hunting resort on Tranquille Lake from his parents.

Throughout his life he endured many illnesses and chronic health problems, yet he courageously faced them all and retained his subtle sense of humour and continued to curl, golf and train and ride horses. He had a soft spot for cats and dogs of all sizes, and named all his chickens. He was also quite the movie buff.

Bernie is predeceased by parents Ben and Nora, and is survived by Jo, daughter Bobbi (Shane Sytnyk), son Jess, brother Mel (Sydney), grand-kids and lots of nieces and nephews.

We miss him. At his request, there was no service.

 

LOIS JACQUELINE CUTLER (nee GILL)

We would like to formally announce the December 17, 2022 passing of Lois Jacqueline Cutler (nee Gill), formerly of North Vancouver, BC and latterly of Kamloops, BC, at the age of 87 years.

Lois leaves behind two daughters: Leslie Thomas (North Vancouver, BC), son-in-law Graham, grandchildren Jennifer (Michael), Tara and Jordan, great-grandchildren Samuel, Charlotte and Paige; and Laura Cutler (Calgary, AB). Lois is also survived by her devoted friend, Dale Merrett.

Lois’s career and community accomplishments are innumerable and multifarious. She parlayed humble beginnings from participating in North Vancouver musical reviews and teaching hat-making into commentating fashion shows and voice-overs for CFJC radio in Kamloops. This ability to engage an audience morphed into securing a host position for the long-running CFJC-TV talk show “Let’s Visit A While,” the ever-popular “Carefree Cooking” and the seniors’-focused “Plus Generation.” Simultaneously, Lois was a keen volunteer for the Canadian Cancer Research Society and rose to the title of Interior Regional President. Furthermore, she recruited, coached, and chaperoned Miss Kamloops pageant contestants for 10 years and served on the Kamloops Bid Committee to host the inaugural BC Winter Games (1979), subsequently leading the hostess team of volunteers to execute the event. Her civic involvement also included becoming the first woman president of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce (1979-80). This position aligned with years of work for the Status of Women at local and national government forums. Also, her culinary experience resulted in Lois becoming a member of the exclusive La Chaine des Rostisseurs gastronomy association, positions on the BC Food and Restaurant Association and documenting Culinary Olympics in her favourite country, Germany.

Following the above broadcasting and public persona roles, Lois took her penchant for commentating and travel to Wells Gray Tours, eventually helping it branch into international destinations. One of her final organizational feats was bringing a chapter of the Professional and Business (PROBUS) Society to Kamloops and instigating sub-arms like its Page Turners Book Club and Tea Connoisseurs, all of which continue to flourish today.

From her youth, Lois was very active in the United Church of Canada. She consistently served on United Church Women committees including starting the Prayer Shawl (knitting) Club in her home church of Kamloops United. She loved gardening, sewing, home decorating and sharing her cooking and entertainment talents (evenings always had a delightful theme!) with friends and family. Lois was grateful to vacation for 46 years at the beloved family cabin on Denman Island, BC and satisfying an insatiable “wanderlust.” Most importantly, Lois was happiest building family traditions that are practiced to this day.

Leslie and Laura wish to thank Lois’s plethora of career, volunteer, peer and treasured-friend contacts, as well as the staff of her final home, Kamloops Seniors Village and the Royal Inland Hospital 5 South Ward.

Lois’s Celebration of Life will take place April 8, 2023 at 2 pm at the Kamloops United Church, 421 St. Paul Street, Kamloops. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Cancer Research Society or the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

 

RICHARD MARCROFT LATTA BLAIR

March 7, 1945 – December 21, 2022

We regret to announce the death of Richard Blair on December 21, 2022.

Richard was born to David and Vivienne Blair in Glasgow, Scotland, joining his only sibling Michael, on March 7, 1945. The family immigrated to Canada by ship in 1952. His first memory of Canada was the taste of fresh strawberries in Ottawa – a taste he never tired of.

The family settled in Vancouver where Richard attended Magee High School, where he played rugby (his knees never forgave him), became a Queen’s Scout, took up skydiving (over 100 jumps!) and followed his big brother into the journalism field as a copy boy. This evolved into his first career as a journalist at the Vancouver Sun.

He entered UBC in 1963 where he spent the majority of his time at The Ubyssey newspaper, rising to the rank of City Editor by the time he met Fearon in August 1965. He had barely scraped through his final year of a BA, thanks to working too many hours at that paper, when he and Fearon tied the knot. But for some reason he was admitted to law school – on the day after their wedding.

In spite of continuing to work two nights a week as a journalist he completed his law degree and articled with Clarke Wilson in Vancouver. The day after being admitted to the bar, they left to see the world, which they did in 19 months of travel, making many memories and friends along the way. They then settled in Kamloops, where Richard worked with Meikle Shupe Blair, then with Mair Jenson Blair, while managing to make time for hiking, skiing, cycling, canoeing, mountaineering, travelling, driving expensive, interesting and at times unpractical vehicles, as well as some back room involvement in provincial and federal politics. He also served on the Overlander Extended Care Hospital board as member and chair, and was involved in the establishment of the Kamloops Foundation, now known as the BC Interior Community Foundation.

In 1989 he joined the BC Randonner Club, a long distance non-competitive cycling club which led him to cycle around 6000 km per year for many years, including a number of 1200 km rides through the Rockies. In 1985 he and Fearon did another year long grand tour around the world, focusing on South America for the first 6 months, then cycling thousands of km in Europe, and stopping in various other countries in Africa, Asia and the Pacific enroute home.

In 1992 he was appointed to the Supreme Court of BC, where he worked until retirement in 2013. He then became the first ‘judge in residence’, a voluntary position, at the TRU law school for 3 years.

Richard succumbed to dementia and spent the last 3 years of his life in the care of the wonderful staff at the Kamloops Seniors Village. He leaves behind his wife Fearon, brother Michael and his family, cousins and their families in Scotland, his in-laws and their extended families across Canada, many long time friends which is a reflection of his many interests and pursuits, and Itsy, the last of a long line of dogs. He was a good man who loved his family, served his community, enjoyed his chosen work, and lived his life to the fullest. He will be missed by many.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held in the spring.

 

GEORGE EDWARD BROWN

November 23, 1924 – September 27, 2021

George Edward Brown passed away on September 27, 2021 at Overlander Extended Care with his son Dale at his side. He would have been 97 in November.

He was predeceased by his wife Winnifred, 3 babies, his parents, five brothers and sister. He is survived by his son Dale (Sandra), his seven grandchildren, seventeen great- grandchildren and one great great-grandchild, Chris (Miranda), Austin (Myra, Emery), Zachary, Natalie (Ruben), Presley, Rachael, Jude, Hannah, Henry, Seamus, Meredith, Philip (Jenna) Eli, Iver, Heather (Peter) Tristan, Everett, Marlena, Janessa, Dominic, Julie, Kimberly (Travis) Parker, Marissa.

George was born in Kamloops on November 23, 1924, served as a wireless telegrapher with the Navy 1942 – 1945 on the HMCS Transcona and HMCS Hespeler. Married Winnifred in Kamloops on June 3, 1950.

He and Winnifred ran a General Store in Kitwanga and George moved to various CNR locations where he was employed as Operator, Agent and Dispatcher, retiring in Kamloops as Dispatcher in 1985. They spent a good retirement in Kamloops, then eleven winters in Yuma, AZ. During their retirement many exciting trips in their camper van from Mexico to Yukon Territory, Manitoba and many spots out west as both enjoyed camping and fishing. He received his pilot’s licence at 55 and flew more than 500 hours with Winnifred.

He loved oil painting and loved teaching his grandchildren, and left many prints to be remembered by. He also tended his yard and garden with great care. At eighty years old he could be seen in the backyard building an ice rink for his grandchildren. He was so thankful to have Heather and Tristan stay with him after Winn passed.

He enjoyed family so much and seeing family even through the window constantly lifted his spirits after Covid lockdowns. His caring warmth, his humour, quick wit, his smile touched so many lives. Even his time at Overlander Extended Care allowed him to leave his fingerprints and heart with many of the caregivers.

His family is very grateful for the caring hearts at Overlander during extremely stressful times and boundaries that did not dissuade them from caring and thank you Dr. Howie.

George Edward Brown’s family needs to announce that due to unforeseen family circumstances the Memorial Service that was to be held at Cornerstone Baptist Church in Kamloops on November 4, 2021 @ 2:30pm needs to be postponed until further notice.

 

TERRANCE GEORGE PILE

January 8, 1960 – September 26, 2021

Terry passed away suddenly and unexpectedly on 26 September 2021 at Victoria, BC.

 

KATHERINE ELIZABETH McPARLAND

May 8, 1987 – December 5, 2020

 

WALTER WINTER

December 31, 1923 – July 4, 2020

After celebrating 96 birthdays, Walter Ernest Winter died peacefully on July 4, 2020, with his family near. His curiosity in others and the world, sense of fairness, integrity and graciousness will be remembered by all who knew, loved and respected him. 

Walter is survived by his four children Lorraine, Joyan (Dirk), Katrine and Sam (Gail); grandchildren Jade, Dane (Isabel), Cas (Mai), Heidi (Chad), Caitlyn, Dallas (Ryan) and Wayne; seven great grandchildren, lots of nieces & nephews and many close friends of the family.

He is predeceased by his loving wife Joan of 60 years, his brother Gordon, parents Harry and Edith, all his brothers-and-sisters in law, grandson Dillon and almost all of his long-time friends.

Walter was born in Ft. McLeod, Alberta on Dec. 31, 1923, but spent most of his childhood and teenage years growing up in Port Alberni on Vancouver Island where he went fishing, mastered yo-yo tricks, played tennis and spent inordinate amounts of time at the local pool hall. He attended UBC, won the university’s table tennis championship, hung out at the Cave with his pals, spent his summers surveying up BC’s coast and graduated with a degree in education.

Off to new adventures? Not just yet. He spent several unexciting years teaching in remote hamlets in Alberta before becoming principal for the grade 1-12 school in Hazelton, BC. His cabin beside the Skeena River soon became a hangout for other young bachelors. But while walking down the street one day, a friend introduced him to a pretty young public health nurse. She was new to town. When he turned back to take a second look, she was looking back at him . . .

Walter and Joan married in 1952 and greeted their first child, Lorraine, in 1953. After Hazelton, the family of three moved to Yellowknife where Walter served, via pontoon plane, as the superintendent of schools for the Western Arctic. During his tenure, he drew attention to the plight of Inuit children in the isolated Catholic/Anglican residential schools he was responsible for supervising. He wrote chilling reports to Ottawa about the injustices the children of the Western Arctic were experiencing.

A second daughter, Joyan, was welcomed in Yellowknife before the family of four moved to Fort Smith where Walter served as the K-12 principal of the school for several years. It was here their third daughter, Katrine, was born, delightfully completing the trio.

When Walter was hired in 1958 as principal of North Kamloops Junior-Senior Secondary in Kamloops, the family moved to the south central Interior of the province. Walter and Joan renovated an old chicken house in Brocklehurst to become the family home.

During his eight years as principal of the school — later to become known as NorKam Secondary — he was instrumental in removing corporal punishment from the school district’s code of acceptable practices and initiated other progressive changes within the school. He then became director of secondary instruction for the school district. The family enjoyed a romping good time in Brocklehurst and during this time, a baby boy, Sam, was welcomed into the fold.

Walter and Joan were always plotting, scheming and dreaming well into the night. On one such occasion, they decided to purchase a small, private lake near Little Fort, BC.  With a lot of resourcefulness and ingenuity, they developed a Kamloops rainbow trout hatchery. At Campbell Lake, they raised a young son and three teenage daughters in an old two-bedroom log house well off the grid, 25 miles away from the nearest high school. During this time Walter served as a TNRD director for several years and as chair of the TNRD for 13 more.

After 20 years of fun stories, trials and hard work at Campbell Lake, Walter and Joan sold the lake property and moved to Gibsons on the Sunshine Coast in their mid-60s. They worked at a salmon farm up the coast for a season before officially retiring. They later returned to Kamloops and lived in a beautiful riverfront home on Ridgeview Terrace before moving to Park Place where they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary in 2012. Sadly, Joan died just three weeks later. Walter moved to Riverbend in Brocklehurst and later to a suite in a family home after more of his good friends had passed.

He lived the last few years of his life with family close by and his little dog Skip for companionship. Walter had many dogs throughout his life and loved them all.

Due to Covid, the family is not able to hold the warm-hearted service at St. Andrews on the Square they had imagined to honour this remarkable man.

Our gratitude to Dr. Paul Dickinson, home care assistants Jenn, Joy and Maggie and the staff at Kamloops Hospice House for making Walter’s last few weeks, and his children’s, the best they could possibly be.

Our heartfelt thanks to Drake Cremation Services for their compassion at this time. Condolences may be sent to the family at drakecremation.com.

 

CYNTHIA (Cindy) FRIEDMAN, PhD, FRSA

August 19, 1971 – December 24, 2018

Tragically and unexpectedly, Cindy died due to an aortic dissection on Christmas Eve morning while visiting her family in Penticton. She was 47 years old.

Mourning her are her husband, Tom, her stepsons, Nathan and Benjamin, her mother, Rose Anne Ross, her sister Kelly Ross, her brother-in-law Alex Lafreniere and her extended family in BC, Manitoba and Ontario. Cindy was predeceased by her father Paul.

Cindy was born in Winnipeg and educated at the University of Manitoba which awarded her a PhD in Biological Sciences in 2002.  She taught at U. of M. and then moved to Kamloops in 2004.  She and Tom married in 2007.

Her distinguished academic career included awards for teaching, research and service and many publications on Arceuthobium—dwarf mistletoe—including in the prestigious Nature Communications.  She twice appeared on CBC Radio’s Quirks & Quarkswith Bob McDonald to discuss her research.  Cindy was inducted into the inaugural cohort of the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists in 2014, and was made a Fellow of the Royal Society of the Arts (U.K.) in 2016 in recognition of her commitment to social and environmental justice.

She appreciated the respect of her peers in the scientific community but was most proud of her role in mentoring and inspiring students.  Most recently, Cindy taught at the University of Alberta and Concordia University of Edmonton.

Cindy was an early opponent of the proposed Ajax mine and was instrumental in organizing community forums and rallying opposition to the mine through her work with the Kamloops Area Preservation Association.  She was an active member of the Kamloops & District Labour Council and the TRU Faculty Association and advocated tenaciously for workers’ rights.  Cindy strongly believed that scientists have a duty to effect change through public engagement, an undertaking she embraced fearlessly throughout her life.

Outside of her academic and community involvement, Cindy was an accomplished keyboardist and vocalist, performing both solo and with the Latin band Caliente.  Her interest in genetics early in her career led to a love of sphynx cats and she was a strong supporter of the SPCA.

Our world is significantly diminished by her death.

A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held on Saturday, January 12^that 2 pm at the Kamloops United Church, 421 St. Paul Street.

 

ANGELO IACOBUCCI

December 31, 1957 – December 14, 2018

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Angelo “Bootch” Iacobucci.

Angelo is survived by his loving wife Silvana, of 34 years, his cat Scout and his brother-in-law Tony (“Stan” to Angelo) DeBartolo.

He also leaves behind one brother Mario (Deanne) Iacobucci and his twin nieces Daniella and Marissa and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

Angelo will be greatly missed by his many, many friends he crossed paths with, all who met and dealt with him in his 39 years of broadcasting and investigative journalism and mostly by his Radio NL family!

No service request.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Kamloops SPCA or charity of your choice in Angelo’s name.

 

PAUL JONES

March 2, 1921 – December 12, 2018

 ‘I contemplate the short years

From atop a pillar of time.

From that vantage,

The future holds no threat.’

— Paul Jones

Artist, author, golfer and gardener Paul Jones left us on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2018 after a brief illness, as he held the hand of his daughter Sydney. He was only 97.

Paul will be lovingly remembered by his son Stephen (Leslie), grandson Ryan (Destin) and great-granddaughter Marlowe, granddaughter Dayna (Rob), daughter Sydney (Mel) and grandson Jacob, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Every single year of Paul’s distinguished life was filled with adventure and achievement. As described in his book Pembina Country, he grew up poorest of poor in the poorest of times.

After the family farm went bust and was auctioned off, he moved with his parents and siblings from rural Alberta to B.C., where he got his first paying job at Ocean Falls. That was interrupted by the second world war and three years in the navy but he returned there until 1949, when he began working with B.C. Power Commission at a small hydro plant on the Barriere River in the Upper Louis Creek Valley.

There he met a young school teacher named Doreen Kozub. She must have been impressed because when Paul transferred to Needles on Lower Arrow Lake, Doreen took a teaching job at nearby Fauquier. They were married in Vernon on Christmas Eve in 1951.

On August 11, 1953 Paul was on the graveyard shift at the Whatshan power house when a huge rock slide destroyed the plant. Paul barely escaped.

During these years, Paul took up an interest in painting, a talent he would hone over the rest of his life. He also got involved in amateur theatre after he and Doreen moved to Vernon with son Stephen and daughter Sydney.

Following the creation of BC Hydro, Paul travelled to the far reaches of the province as a radio technician but he had time to join the Community Concert Association.

With a move to a new home above Kin Beach in 1970 came a new interest — wines and wine making. He planted a vineyard and, as Paul put it, “made wine, much wine. Drank same.” He also taught a winemaking class at Okanagan University College.

His interest in painting became what he called “serious,” and he studied with Vernon artist Holly Middleton and at the Banff Centre for the arts. His work was exhibited throughout the Okanagan. A collection of his paintings is in the permanent collection of the Vernon Art Gallery.

Paul retired from BC Hydro in 1983, allowing him time to serve as president of the Vernon Art Gallery board and as preparator for many shows and for the B.C. Festival of the Performing Arts. Later, he became a director and vice president of the Performing Arts Society, and would become a driving force in the successful campaign to build the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre.

Paul also began writing, publishing his first book in 1998 at the age of 77, and soon publishing a second. His writing reflected a rare talent that can’t be taught, wonderfully descriptive and tinged with humour.

He was athletic, too, among his favourite sports and activities being tennis, scuba diving, sailing (he built and sailed two boats), hiking, cycling and downhill and cross-country skiing. He became an official and coach for cross-country ski racing.

At 78, he took up golf and spent the rest of his life perfecting his game. In his “spare time,” he was an avid gardener and landscaper. Paul and Doreen travelled extensively in Canada and Europe. After Doreen passed away in 2015, Paul moved to Canterbury Court.

Until his recent brief illness, he regularly worked out in the gym.

The life of Paul Jones was one of kindness, generosity and accomplishment far beyond the ordinary. It was a full life, continuing unabated to its very end.

A suitable event celebrating the life of Paul Jones will be held at a later date. Condolences may be offered at http://www.vernonfuneralhome.com.

 

RODERICK KENT DUNCAN

March 31, 1951 – November 3, 2018

We lost our larger-than-life father, brother and friend on November 3, 2018.

Roderick Kent Duncan was born on March 31, 1951, almost an April’s fool, he used to joke. He died suddenly, leaving us all shocked and saddened by the loss of this passionate, colourful, opinionated individual.

Rod is survived by his son Shea, his sisters Shelley (Jim) and Tracey (Rob), and his brother Jeff (Val). He was also dearly loved by his partner Maria, his ex-wife Susan and her daughters Alex and Olivia to whom he was a second dad. His long-time friends Ken (Dorian) Smedley and Alexander Watt will also miss their pal.

He was predeceased by Sharon “Comfy” Duncan, who enriched his life immeasurably after their marriage in 1991 until her death in 2004. He never quite recovered from the void she left in his world.

He was also predeceased by his father Clarence “Dunc” Duncan and his mother Vivian Duncan Davison. He was an awesome son to his mother after both Dunc and then her second husband Henry died unexpectedly. He was there for her in every crisis and was also her great friend.

As well, Rod is missed by many nieces, nephews and a myriad of friends. Making and losing friends and then making more friends was a constant throughout Rod’s vibrant life. He lived large and he loved to engage loudly in political debate, often to the chagrin of others.

If you wish to honour Rod, boycott Trump by avoiding a trip into the United States. Now that would make him happy.

Rod loved to philosophize, sing, play guitar, and write, but he also had an amazing grasp of numbers and science. He was a brilliant guy. He loved Macintosh computers and had no patience with anyone who preferred PCs. He spent many hours finding the best deals when friends and family were in the market for a computer. He also loaded the software and persisted in teaching even the least technical of us. This was not fun for him, but he never gave up trying.

He was incredibly generous and happiest when he was giving someone a gift. He hated capitalism, but never quit buying.

In recent years, Rod greatly enjoyed his RV oasis on Kamloops Lake in the summers and then in the winters, heading off with Maria for travelling adventures.

The family would like to thank Craig Arduini who diligently performed CPR after finding Rod unresponsive on the roadside. Thanks as well to the emergency personnel who endured the pouring rain as they worked to save Rod’s life.

A Memorial Service took place on November 17, 2018 at Schoening Funeral Service, 514 Seymour St., Kamloops.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

 

AL (ARCHIBALD) D. KEMP

April 2, 1935 – August 2, 2018

With great sadness the family of Al Kemp announce his peaceful passing at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice in Kamloops after a short battle with cancer.

He is predeceased by his loving wife, Pat Kemp in 2012. Survived by his 3 daughters, Terri, Tracey (Mark) and Shelley (Andy). Grandchildren Braedy (Noelle), Kara (Darnell), Tasia (Rob) and Nick – as well as 5 great grandchildren.

Al arrived in Logan Lake in 1972 after spending time in England, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. He worked at Lornex/Highland Valley Copper as a Machinist for 25 years and spent many of those years as the President of Steel Workers Union 7619.

Al was elected as a Councillor at the District of Logan Lake in 1985. His commitment to the community led to 9 years as a Councillor and 12 years as the Mayor of Logan Lake. In addition to serving on the Logan Lake Council, he was appointed the Director of the Okanagan Mainline Association for 9 years and Director of the Thompson Nicola Regional District for 12 years. In January of 2013 he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for his outstanding achievements in public service.

Al and his family created many memories while camping, fishing and golfing on our numerous road trips to explore the province.

The family would like to send immense gratitude to just a few of the many people who supported Al in his final months; Dr. Saeed and team at the Logan Lake Health Centre, His personal angels – Theo & Ayla, Drake Smith at Drake Cremation and Funeral Services and the Staff and Volunteers at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice. Thank you also to the community of Logan Lake for the love and support during this difficult time.

A celebration of Al’s life will be held on Saturday, August 11th from 1:00 p.m. – 4 p.m. (eulogy and tributes to Al at 2:00 p.m.) at the Logan Lake Recreation Centre. In lieu of flowers, should you desire, donations can be made in Al’s memory at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice House.

Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com.

 

EDWARD GEORGE JOSLIN

May 15, 1920 – June 24, 2018

Ted died peacefully in the company of family on June 24th, 2018 at the age of 98. Born in London, England to George Alfred and Violet Beatrice Joslin on May 15th, 1920, Ted was predeceased by his sister Mollie.

He is survived by his former wife and friend Patricia (Sally) Tupholme and their four children, Dominic (Mary) of Southport, Australia, Simon (Dalyce) of Victoria, BC, Jolyon and Nicolette Eadie (Vic Hamm) both of Kamloops, BC, together with their respective children and grandchildren: Noel, Jessica, Joel, Dustin, Simon, Marianna, Gabrielle, Katherine, Jakob, Madison, Joe and Edward.

Ted grew up in London, England where he left school at age 15 to join his father’s estate and property management firm as, in his words, “a stamp licking errand runner at a pittance wage.” He quickly earned a Certificate of Membership in the Auctioneers and Estate Agent’s Institute laying the foundation for his future real estate career in Canada.

Serving with the British forces in WWII, initially with the Royal Armoured (tank) Corps and later with the Allied forces in Egypt negotiating and securing use of lands and buildings for the war effort, Ted returned to London from his final posting in the Suez to once again take up civilian life. In 1948, he met and married Sally with whom he celebrated the birth of four children in the short span of 5 years, purchased and struggled to salvage a rundown hotel in London’s post-war economy, and ultimately made the courageous and fortuitous decision to emigrate to Canada in search of adventure and a better life.

The family arrived by boat in Montreal in 1956 and immediately boarded a train for Vancouver, BC. After a brief stay in the lower mainland, Ted found steady employment in Kamloops, first as the Deputy City Assessor and then as City Assessor. Always a risk taker, Ted soon found himself yearning to be his own boss and left municipal employment to start up Wescan (Real Estate) Appraisals. He later partnered with business colleagues to start up Dome Developments Ltd. His final business venture was Project Development Services.

Ted worked into his early 80’s before becoming a reluctant retiree. Ted invariably treated life as a grand adventure. Whether purchasing and moving onto a rustic old ranch on Barnhartvale Road, fly fishing for rainbow trout on local lakes or participating in the now defunct annual Clearwater to Kamloops Overlander Raft Race, Ted was nothing if not endlessly enthusiastic. Over the years, he was an active member in a variety of organizations including Rotary International, the Kamloops Players, the Appraisal Institute of Canada, the Kamloops Tennis Club, the Interior Authors’ Group and more recently the Thompson Valley Community Orchestral Society.

Ted had an abiding passion for politics and was an early supporter of Preston Manning’s Reform Party. If you wanted to know his politics, you only had to follow his many letters to the editor in both local and national newspapers. Ted expressed his artistic side in numerous ways. He created a lovely garden of roses and whimsy, and enjoyed watercolour and oil painting.

After retirement, he wrote and self-published a memoir, a novel, a children’s story and a book of poetry. Ted also took great pleasure in golf, his “cottage” on Arbutus Street, the friendship of a loyal group of bridge players, and a renewal of his faith through The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Throughout his life, Ted was ever the restless soul, always searching. Whether or not his move from staid old England to Canada satisfied his quest or fulfilled his inner hunger, only Ted would know. What is certain, however, is that his leap of faith in uprooting his young family and moving to Canada afforded his four children an immensely rich life changing opportunity.

Ted’s willingness to brace the unknown is a gift for which his family will forever be grateful. An oft’ heard refrain from those who met him was, “Ted is ever so charming.” And indeed he relished the opportunity to engage others during his every adventure, be it a creative endeavor or a calamity.

Sometimes it was hard to keep up as he lived by the motto ‘out with the old and in with the new’ but, regardless of his choices, he always embraced life with unbounded optimism and enthusiasm. Above all, Ted lived his life according to his own agenda, sometimes for the better and occasionally not so much, but always on his own terms. Ted’s family thank the staff and residents of Kamloops Seniors’ Village for welcoming Ted into their community in his years, and Dr. Harold Stefanyk and the Village staff for the outstanding care Ted received at the end of his life.

A Celebration of Ted’s life will be held on Saturday, July 7th, 2018 at 1:00 pm at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 2165 Parkcrest Ave, Kamloops. Family and friends are welcome.

Condolences may be expressed at www.schoeningfuneralservice.com.

 

JOHN SKELLY

December 21, 1928 – June 8, 2018

We are very sad to announce the passing of our Dad, John Skelly. He died peacefully on June 8, 2018 at Marjorie Willoughby Snowden hospice at the age of 89.

Predeceased by parents Jim and Eva, brothers Frank and Pat, sister Irene Wilson, daughter Marilynne, and wives Jeanne and Ann. He is survived by his children Jim (Lynn), Matt (Alison Slater) and Nevada (Jack Mendes) along with his grandchildren Christina, Jennifer, Julieanne, James, Brandyn, Taylor, Kianna, step-grandchildren Christopher Mendes and Alexander Mendes, and great grandsons Morgan, Ryker and Jackson.

Born in Calgary on December 21, 1928, John moved with his parents Jim and Eva to Kamloops in 1939, on a parcel of property known as Jimeva Farms, now called Orchard’s Walk. John attended Kamloops High and spent a few years in the family business of farming with the Skelly Tomato Cannery before embarking in 1952 on a long radio broadcasting career. Ownership and management positions in radio stations took John and his family to Edmonton, Peace River, Fort St. John and Kamloops.

John was the founder of Radio NL and served as President and GM from 1970 to 1982.

John had his own radio show called Sunday Showcase which allowed him to indulge in his love of jazz, swing and big band music and play homage to his god, Frank Sinatra.

Before retirement in the late 90’s, John spent 8 years in real estate sales and served as an Alderman on the Kamloops City Council from 1984 to 1988. While on council, John was very proud to be an integral part of bringing Sunday shopping to Kamloops.

John loved to fly and earned his private pilot`s license at a young age. One of his great pleasures was taking family and friends up in the air and flying to the Abbotsford Airshow for the day. Another one of John`s passions was boating on Shuswap Lake and showing his family the joys of life on the Shuswap.

The family would like to thank the health care professionals at RIH for their care of Dad and Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice for their exceptional care and emotional support during our Dad`s last days.

Donations in John’s memory can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice or to Diabetes Canada.

And now, the end is near

And so I face the final curtain

My friend, I’ll say it clear, I’ll state my case, of which I’m certain

I’ve lived a life that’s full I traveled each and every highway

And more, much more than this

I did it my way

A celebration of John’s life will be held on:

Friday, June 22, 2018 @ 2PM

The Coast Hotel & Conference Centre

1250 Rogers Way, Kamloops

Condolences may be sent to the family at DrakeCremation.com.

 

EDYN CATE BELLA ROTHENBURGER

April 24, 1979 – March 7, 2018

In the early morning hours of March 7, 2018, our daughter, sister, aunt, grand-daughter and friend Edyn left us, anxious to join her son Mykel.

Edyn was kind, compassionate, fun-loving. She was a friend to animals and a dire enemy of garden slugs and aphids.

She loved to laugh. It came out in a low, slow rumble, like a pickup truck trying to start on a low battery.

One of the things her brothers and sisters remember most about her was her refusal to back down, whether in defense of clients of the Y women’s shelter where she worked, or of Mykel as he made his way through life. Another phrase that comes to mind is, “finding a way.”

She was adventurous, too, not hesitating to climb up a 60-ft. mast on a sailboat, jump off a high rock cliff into the ocean, or sky dive just to see what it was like.

Born in Kamloops, Edyn attended R.L. Clemitson elementary school in Barnhartvale, graduating from Kamloops secondary school in 1997. After a year in Winnipeg, she returned home to obtain certification at the University College of the Cariboo (now Thompson Rivers University) as a human services worker.

For the past 10 years she worked as staff resources coordinator at the Y women’s shelter.

Life wasn’t always kind to Edyn. She struggled at times in her earlier years, and in later years suffered from ill health.

But pure joy arrived on Oct. 4, 2000 in the form of Mykel Leslie Fritz Frank-Rothenburger. Never has there been a stronger bond between a parent and child, maybe in part because Mykel wasn’t even a year old when it became just the two of them at home.

They often reassured each other that it was “Mum and Bub” against the world.

But let’s back up a bit. As a little kid, ‘Boo’ (a nickname that stuck with her throughout life) fell head over heels in love with an older man — her grandfather, Les Alaric — during frequent visits to Les and Kay’s home in Oliver, sometimes spending part of summer vacation with them. Les died when she was five, but she stayed in touch by going outside and talking to him as she gazed up at the stars.

During her school years, Edyn played soccer and took part in the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts. At 16, she fell in love again. This time it was with Bradley, a six-year-old Quarter Horse-Tennessee Walker cross with attitude. Edyn and Bradley drifted apart over the years, but they were happily re-united this past Christmas.

In recent years, Edyn loved more sedate past-times such as camping trips with extended family, sailing, crafting, reading, celebrating Christmas, gardening (that’s where the slugs and aphids come in), painting, watching The Walking Dead with Mykel, eating “Raspberry 4 Lucie” crêpes at Cora restaurant, searching for sand dollars, and taking a 10-lb. package of canine dynamite named Willy for walks.

Not to mention Monday night TV dance shows and a 24-hour online auction where she recently sold a pair of worse-for-wear running shoes for more than the asking price.

Most of all, though, she loved family. Loved being with them and loved seeing them together. She and Mykel loved family camping trips and vacations on Jon and Rene’s sailboat. She and her ‘Daddio’ Mel volunteered together during last summer’s wildfires, caring for evacuated horses.

Her relationship with her brothers and sisters operated under strict laws of nature: every storm will pass; love and forgiveness must always prevail.

And she was a good aunt.

Edyn served on the board of the Kamloops and District Elizabeth Fry Society and as a server at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where she was baptized last November.

After Mykel took his own life March 31, 2017, at just 16, we tried very, very hard to hold onto her, but he was waiting for her to come home.

Missing her are her mom Irene (Jon) Buckle, dad Mel (Sydney) Rothenburger, sisters Sunnie (Mark), Kelly (Graham), and Aija (Danny), brothers Ryan (Carman), Jacob, and Matthew (Elise), grandmother Kay Alaric, nieces Jordan (Jeremy), Amy, Marcella, Deina, Harper, Leila, Kaitlyn and Nora, nephews Kyle, Coby, Carter, Del, Tai, Robert, Lucas and Ben, great nieces Paetyn and Oakley, great nephew Greyson, Mykel’s cat Leo, Edyn’s dog Willy, and her horse Bradley.

In lieu of flowers, donations to the Mykel Frank-Rothenburger Bursary, c/o the B.C. Interior Community Foundation, would be gratefully accepted.

A celebration of Edyn’s life will be held at 1 p.m., Wednesday, March 14 in St. Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, 360 Nicola St., Kamloops.

“Mumpus loves, loves, LOVES her Bumpus!”

 

SHIRLEY DIANE McCAFFREY (née CLARK)

 

MARGARET LOUISE SPINA

November 17, 1951 – December 15, 2017

Margaret Spina, age 66, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2017 surrounded by the love and comfort of her dear family.

Born to Andy and Dorothy Carswell on November 17,1951 in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Devoted wife and friend to Ross for 39 years. Mother of three loving children Peter (Joanne), Christina (Riley) and Vincent. Proud Grandmother and Nanna to Andrew, Alex and Emily.

She is survived by her parents Andy and Dorothy , her brothers Jim (Marika), John (Kim) and Tim and one sister Anne (Ian). Ross’s sisters Maria (Joe) and Fran (Dave) and her loving and supportive mother-in-law Fortunata.

Marg will always be remembered by her nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins and friends.

Marg was an exceptional and gifted human being. She was a remarkable inspiration to her family and the many people she influenced at so many different levels.

Her legacy to her family, friends and community she loved is profound and will last with us forever.

The family wishes to thank the community and many friends for the tributes, kind and comforting words and great food that was dropped off at Ross and Marg’s home.

We would also like to thank the many nurses and doctors from Kamloops and Kelowna who were there for Marg throughout her difficult, one year journey with cancer. In particular Dr. Bosman, Dr. Proctor, Dr. Brownlee and Dr. Leia-Steven. The staff and volunteers at the Rotary Lodge in Kelowna and Kamloops Hospice also deserve our heartfelt appreciation.

A Public Memorial Service to pay tribute to Marg will be held on January 20, 2018. The time and location of the service will be announced once an appropriate venue is booked.

Should friends desire, in lieu of flowers, please donate to Kamloops Hospice or to BC. Interior Community Foundation, specifying your donation to the Marg Spina Community Enhancement Fund.

One of Marg’s favorite quotes by Haruki Murakami:
“Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional.”

On-line condolences may be expressed at http://www.schoeningfuneralservice.com

 

CHRISTOPHER WAYNE SEGUIN

1977-2017

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Christopher Wayne Séguin on September 22, 2017.  Christopher was born October 20, 1977 in Pinawa, Manitoba.  Christopher is survived by his wife Melissa, sons Logan and Harrison, parents Deb & Joe, sister Jennifer, father Patrick and his wife Shirley, many uncles, aunts and cousins.

Chris spent his early years in Lac du Bonnet Manitoba, where he arrived as the youngest member to a fairly large extended family.  His love for travel began with trips in his rumble seat on the back of his father’s bicycle while visiting with friends and family.  Most of all he loved the farm. This would usually include a tractor ride or a spin on the dirt bike with Uncles Mark or Bruce.

Being of a mining family he moved to BC at an early age and soon became acquainted with many of BC’s mining communities.  He began his pre-schooling in Granisle BC, elementary in Chetwynd, Greenwood and Kamloops to finish up his secondary education as a “Golden K” recipient of Kamloops Senior Secondary.

Christopher was very active in athletics and enjoyed basketball, rugby and football.  His academic standing and football carried him over to Simon Fraser University (SFU) with a scholarship to play for the university’s varsity team, the Clan.  He graduated with a BA (Honours) in linguistics and made the Dean’s list for his work related to the Fijian Culture.

At an early age in life Christopher set his sights on world travel.  While a student at SFU he made several trips to Fiji, with his linguistics professor and students, to document the Fijian language.  He found himself in Prague in following years learning about the Czech language.  Other trips included Egypt, Jordan, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Australia, China, and Central America to name a few.  His travels gave him an appreciation of this world’s cultural diversity, the values of others and the strength gained by embracing the diversity of people.  From this he learned what is truly important in life which was giving back to his community.

Christopher began his career with SFU as cultural liaison in the International Education department.  Over the next twelve years, he established his expertise in a number of development positions at SFU, including statistician, development officer, and account manager.  In July 2007 Christopher made the move back to his home town as Vice-President Advancement at Thompson Rivers University (TRU).  Under his leadership, TRU set new fundraising records virtually every year of the last decade, generating millions of dollars for student awards, groundbreaking research and major buildings, notably the House of Learning, the renovation of Old Main for the Law Faculty, the Trades and Technology building and the soon to be constructed Nursing and Population Health building.

Christopher’s energies and passions went beyond the university with participation and support for the Kamloops community at large.  Maintaining his athletic nature, Christopher completed various triathlons, 5-10 km runs for a cause and awareness, and his first Ironman competition in 2011 while continuing to put his energies into community involvement.  Through his contributions in Rotary, Developing World Connections, TRUly United, the Kamloops Marathon and the North Kamloops Family Dinner, to name a few, he gave back to Kamloops with the many initiatives he championed and internationally with his climb of Kilimanjaro to raise funds for a school project in Sierra Leone for example.  Christopher’s accomplishments as a community change maker were recognized in 2015, when he received the BC Community Achievement award.

Christopher was a very passionate bigger than life guy, a giving man with a huge heart, a wide smile and big laugh.  We choose to remember Christopher for who he was, husband, father, brother, son, champion for causes, a passionate community leader and an accomplished VP of TRU who gave so much so others may succeed.

We welcome you to attend his Celebration of Life which will take place on Saturday, October 14, 2017 at the Calvary Temple, 1205 Rogers Way, at 1:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, honoring Christopher and his memory would be best expressed by donating to a trust fund for his children through any Kamloops CIBC branch.

 

JOHN LARRY DORMER

May 6, 1944 – April 14, 2017

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of John L. Dormer, a lover husband, father and grandfather. Known for his infectious smile and boundless energy, John passed away on April 14, 2017, at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops surrounded by family and holding the hand of Marjorie, his loving wife of 48 years, after suffering a stroke earlier in the day.

Born in Arcola, Sask. on May 6, 1944, John was raised in Pincher Creek, Alta. by his adoptive parents Wellington and Maxine Dormer. He moved to Calgary as a teenager where he joined the Royal Canadian Navy. Following training near Halifax, N.S., John met his wife Marjorie while stationed at CFB Esquimalt, near Victoria, in 1966. They were married in 1968 and were together for 48 years, having four children John Jr., Stephen (deceased), David and Julie, along with one grandchild, Emily. He is also survived by his two sisters as well as numerous nieces and nephews and a large, extended family in Saskatchewan.

After completing his service in the navy, including a posting at NRS Aldergrove, John worked for BC Tel (Telus) as a warehouse supervisor in New Westminster, Prince George, Dawson Creek and Cranbrook, before coming to Kamloops in 1979, where he worked in public relations. He transitioned to the British Columbia Lottery Corporation for a short time and in 1986, John was elected mayor of Kamloops, serving one term.

His time as mayor will be remembered for a successful referendum to construct Riverside Coliseum (now Sandman Centre), helping solidify Kamloops as a provincial and national sporting hub. He also served as director of the Thompson-Nicola Regional District as well as on the executives of the Union of B.C. Municipalities and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. In 1988, John went to work for himself, creating his own businesses, first Dormer Consulting, focusing on business development, then Pacific Bentonite, a mining operation near Hat Creek. He was also vice-president of the Kamloops Exploration Group and served as president of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce for a time.

John believed strongly in volunteerism and giving back to the community, serving on a number of boards and advisory committees and was a longtime member of the K-40 (Kinsmen) service club. He also continued his involvement in politics through the B.C. Liberal Party and served as campaign manager for Kevin Krueger’s successful run in the 2009 provincial election. He was also a longtime regional director for the party, travelling to Vancouver monthly for meetings.

Family meant everything to John and being a father and grandfather was something he truly cherished. His final morning was a happy one, spent making breakfast and smiling with his granddaughter, Emily.

Outside work (John didn’t have spare time as he didn’t consider time to be spare), John was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying fishing, hiking, hunting and camping. He also loved animals, Harley the dog being one of his favourites. He was an exceptional, one-of-a-kind person who was loved dearly and will be missed.

A public Celebration of Life will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 29, 2017 at the Coast Kamloops Hotel and Conference Centre in Kamloops. All are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home, an organization he supported strongly.

 

GARY MARINO CANDIDO

July 1, 1937 – April 1, 2017

Gary passed away peacefully surrounded by the love of his family on a beautiful sunny day in Palm Springs, California, from complications of a stroke. Gary will be loved and forever missed by his wife, Edna, Son Delano, Daughter-in-law Dawn and Granddaughter Paige. His memory will also be cherished by his brothers Carman (Linda) and Ken, Sister-in-law Hazel MacDonald and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. Gary was predeceased by his son Cory, Brother Vern MacDonald, Sister-in-law Ruby Candido and his Parents, Len and Fran.

Gary was born in Merritt and raised in Kamloops. Sports were an integral part of his life. As a young man Gary played hockey in Grimshaw Alberta and Williams Lake where he won his most treasured trophy, his wife Edna. Together they shared 58 years and were truly partners in life.

Gary was an avid curler enjoying many happy times and triumphs at the Kamloops Curling Club. Summers were spent on the golf course. Gary started golfing at the Kamloops Golf Course and was a life-long member of Rivershore Golf Club. Gary and Edna spent the last 20 years wintering in Palm Springs enjoying year round golfing. Gary’s sporting accomplishments also included softball spending many hours on the baseball diamonds of Riverside Park.

Gary spent many years in the automotive industry. He was a partner at Dearborn Motors before realizing his dream as the owner of Kamloops Ford Lincoln.

Above all Gary was a man of honesty and integrity. He was a devoted husband and father and a most beloved Papa to Paige. Gary was a true friend with many life-long friends. Throughout the years Gary would treat his friends to steelhead fishing excursions on the Dean River.

Prayers will be held in the Schoening Funeral Chapel on Monday, April 17th at 6:00 pm. Following Gary’s wishes a private entombment will take place in the Evergreen Mausoleum on Tuesday, April 18th.
In lieu of flowers donations to the Heart and Stroke Foundation or the BC Cancer Agency would be greatly appreciated. A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date to be announced.

 

MYKEL LESLIE FRITZ FRANK-ROTHENBURGER

October 4, 2000 – March 31, 2017

Mykel Frank-Rothenburger began life with a passion that never let up. When he was three years old, he picked up his first medical book. It was a sign that this was a kid who was going to be above the ordinary.

He was shy, funny, kind, artistic in his own way and intensely inquisitive. He was, as his mom Edyn calls him, “the most beautiful soul this world had to offer.”

And, as an early friend describes him, “a little weird, a little wacky and so full of love, that’s what made Mykel, Mykel.”

Edyn and Mykel would agree that he provided some challenging moments. “One of his greatest skills was testing the limits of his mother,” Edyn says, smiling as she remembers the joy of him.

As Mykel grew up, his interests were, to say the least, diverse. He loved trying new things. At five, he took up karate, a sport he remained devoted to his entire life, earning a third-degree black belt.

At Beattie School of the Arts, he began playing the alto saxophone, and kept at it. He even composed his own songs. And while it’s unlikely he was going to win a Juno or an Oscar (he “accidentally” got into drama in school), he liked to sing and act.

And from an early age he loved the water, whether it be in the pool or, for the past several years, on the sailboat owned by his ‘Nan’ Irene and ‘Pop’ Jon Buckle.

Oh, yeah, and there was snowboarding, and Rubik’s cubes, and video games and, of course, he knew much more about how computers work than most software developers and technicians. Seemed like it, anyway. By Grade 6 he was carting his laptop to school with him.

After Beattie, he attended Sa-Hali secondary, SKSS and the KOOL School. His shyness began to fade and self-confidence took root.

Mykel liked his hot chocolate with whole milk, not pre-mixed; he enjoyed posting funny videos, quoting random facts, almost anything to do with science, working with hand tools, researching his family history, spending time with his girlfriend Jasmine, hanging out with friends and volunteering at the SPCA. He grew his hair a foot long to donate to the Wigs for Kids program for kids with cancer. That’s the kind of guy he was.

One day last October, right after his 16^th birthday, he proudly stuck his ‘L’ on his Nan’s car and began working towards his driver’s license. He was already looking forward to getting his own car and souping it up. “Watch out people of Kamloops!” he posted on Facebook.

As for those medical books, well, he decided early on he’d become a doctor, later adjusting that ambition to becoming a medical researcher.

We lost Mykel last Friday. We lost the complicated joy he brought to his friends, his family and most of all his loving mother Edyn Rothenburger.

His mom is joined by dad Mike Frank, gramma Laurie Frank, Aunt Beth, ‘Nan’ Irene (and Jon ‘Pop’) Buckle, grand-dad Mel (Syd) Rothenburger, great-grandma Kay Alaric, aunts Sunnie, Kelly and Aija, uncles Ryan, Jacob and Matthew and lots of cousins, his cat Leo and girlfriend ‘Little Egg’ Jasmine Bidwell in mourning him and missing him.

A service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, April 7 at St. Paul’s Cathedral, 360 Nicola St., Kamloops. In lieu of flowers, donations to the SPCA would be much appreciated. A scholarship will be established in Mykel’s name to benefit children with ADHD and mental health challenges.

 

IDA E. DEKELVER (ARNOLD)

September 30, 1923 – March 7, 2017 (93 years old)

After spending 4-1/2 months in hospital, Ida passed away peacefully with a long-time family friend and hospice volunteer, Ella Greffard by her side in Forest View Place, Clearwater, B.C. Ida was an inspirational, courageous role model for everyone who met her. She leaves a huge void in all our hearts. RIP, Ida.

Ida Dekelver is survived by her sons, Carl (Diane), Joseph (Diane) Richard (Cathy) all from Clearwater, and daughter, Tina (Laurie) Brewer from Mcleese Lake, as well as several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Emil Dekelver in 1996, daughter Diane Leighton, and her son, Justin Frye in 1989, son George Dekelver in 2008, granddaughter Courtney, and husband Sky Buck, and Baby Buck in 2012, and brothers Steve and Bud Arnold.

Ida and Emil were married on Oct. 14, 1944 in Kuroki, Saskatchewan. Ida and Emil had four sons and two daughters. The family grew big vegetable gardens on the home property and provided vegetables for sale at Pratt’s General Store (near the old Thompson River Bridge) and Greenwood’s General Store (at the bottom of Stegg’s Hill).

During the summer, Ida was a shepherd on the Trophy Mountain with their herd of sheep; in the winter she trapped, often with her son, George. In the 1960’s, Ida worked for Mac and Cecile McDiarmid at their Royalite/Gulf Service Station, where Jim’s Market is now, and in later years, became care-givers to her long-time friends. Ida and Mac enjoyed berry picking which Ida turned into wonderful preserves, as well as collecting wild mushrooms.

In 1967, Ida, and her two donkeys, Jack and Bill, followed the route of the Overlanders to her home town in Wadena, Saskatchewan. The trip took 40 days, and covered 1,000 miles. She camped by the roadside, and in the evenings she would show home movies of the Clearwater area and the Trophy Mountains to interested visitors. This, perhaps, was the start of her serious interest in preserving the history of the North Thompson Valley, and her never ending quest to preserve nature for future generations.

Mrs. Dekelver volunteered countless hours in School District 26 classrooms, teaching the children about their local heritage. The children learned how the pioneers lived, from making soap, preserving hides, raising crops, picking wild berries, making bread, churning butter, building shelters, to how volcanoes shaped the landscape. She helped the children with their heritage displays. The children always loved when Mrs. D came to visit. Ida often had displays at the local library, She worked hard to preserve the history of the local First Nations Heritage by documenting local sites through the B.C. Archaeology Society, and she and Mac found, documented and photographed one undiscovered site on Adams Lake.

Ida tirelessly campaigned to have the Trophy Mountain included in Wells Gray Park to preserve and protect it. She also protested the damming of the Clearwater River for hydro electricity. For many years Ida was a step-on tour guide on buses for different tour companies. The tourists always enjoyed and appreciated her knowledge of the area. For many years Ida had a museum on her property. It drew hundreds of visitors each year. It was filled with old pictures, maps, equipment, traps, and articles of interest, She and daughter, Diane, spent countless hours on back roads, locating historical places such as the Japanese Tea House near Blue River.

Ida was quite small in stature, but big and strong in character!, whether logging, farming, shepherding, being alone on the trap line, taking snow measurements or. . . in one case, delivering her own baby, by herself (while her other babies were sleeping! Her biggest fear was them waking up!) in September, 1961 giving birth to her youngest daughter, Tina without a phone, hydro, or vehicle and her husband was away!

She was also artistic! She created charming pictures from nature – cones, birch bark, moss, pebbles etc. She also had a poet’s ear for words, and her cards and notes would often have a poetic line. Ida was a very busy lady with all her interests. In between times, she was a member of the Women’s Institute, Chamber of Commerce, B.C. Naturalists, B.C. Archeology Society, Friends of Wells Grey and many more. She also took courses on Museums in Victoria too.

Celebration of Life will be held on:

April 15, 2017 at Clearwater ski hill, 566 Dunn Lake Road, Clearwater, BC. @ 1:00 PM

Refreshments will be available but potluck finger food is also appreciated.

Get your thinking caps on and maybe get up and share some of your special memories.

In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to

Dr Helmcken Memorial Hospital Auxiliary
640 park Drive, Clearwater, BC V0E 1N1

In Memory of Ida Dekelver for a Portable Suction Machine for Forest View Place.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to Drake Cremation and Funeral Services –Clearwater, B.C.

 

RICHARD ALLEN WAGAMESE (1955-2017)

Richard Allen Wagamese of Kamloops, B.C., passed away on March 10, 2017 at 61 years of age.

Richard is survived by his loving life partner Yvette, his sons Jason (Jeneen) and Joshua, his ten grandchildren Dustyn, Jordan, Dee, Zoey, Koda, Chase, Erik, Montana, Torrie and Wyatt, his brother Charles (Lori) and many nieces, nephews, extended family, friends and legions of readers.

Richard is predeceased by his father Stanley, mother Marjorie, brother Jack, sister Jane, niece Jackie, as well as his spiritual father Jack Kakakaway.

Richard was an Ojibway from the Wabaseemoong First Nation in Northwestern Ontario. Richard’s traditional clan was the Sturgeon clan and his name was Buffalo Cloud. He was an inspiring storyteller, an award-winning writer, an accomplished broadcaster, reporter and journalist. Through his writing, many Canadians gained an awareness of the experience of First Nations people and the intergenerational legacy of residential schools.

Richard will be honoured in private ceremonies. A public Celebration of his Life will be held at the Tk’emlúps te Secwepemc powwow grounds on Saturday, March 25 at 11:00 am. Those unable to attend are encouraged to honour and celebrate his life as he would – by having living room gatherings where close friends come together.

We would like to thank the many friends and family members who have offered support and love at this difficult time.

In lieu of cards or flowers, donations can be made to your local homelessness shelter or children’s education program.

“We are story. All of us. What comes to matter then is the creation of the best possible story we can while we’re here; you, me, us, together.” – Richard Wagamese