In Loving Memory of Antonio Ramunno

September 22, 1961 – October 15, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Antonio Ramunno on October 15, 2026, at the age of 65.

Antonio was known for his honesty, generosity, and outgoing nature. He made friends wherever he went and valued the people in his life.

Born and raised in Kamloops, BC, Antonio spent much of his childhood on Clapperton Road. He attended John Todd Elementary School and MacArthur Park School before pursuing a career as an automotive mechanic. In 1996, he opened Ramunno Auto, which he owned and operated for nearly three decades. He took great pride in his work and the relationships he formed with his customers, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Outside of work, Antonio loved spending time at Shuswap Lake, especially out on his boat. He also enjoyed riding his motorcycle, hiking with his dogs, Hank, Rio, and Louie, and spending time with family and friends.

Antonio will be deeply missed by his daughters, Caitlin Ramunno and Francesca (Tony) Rome; his parents, Mario and Francesca Ramunno; his brothers, Sandro (Connie) Ramunno and Bobby (Sandy) Ramunno; his nieces and nephews, Jessica (Jordan) Bley, Mario Ramunno, Alexandra Ramunno and Vincent Ramunno; his great-nephews, Austin and Maverick Bley; and his extended family and friends in Canada, Italy, and Australia. Antonio was also soon to become a grandfather to Ellis Rome, expected in December 2026.

Also mourning his passing is Carol Ramunno, with whom he shared 38 years of marriage.

A Celebration of Antonio’s life will be held on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at Colombo Lodge, 814 Lorne Street, Kamloops.
A private interment will take place at Hillside Cemetery Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those wishing to honour Antonio’s memory to consider making a donation to the Centre for Suicide Prevention.

Condolences may be emailed to the family from
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

June 16, 1940 – October 14, 2026

It is with heavy hearts and cherished memories that we announce the unexpected passing of Jean Tash (née Lukaz) on October 14, 2026, at the age of 86.

Jean was born in Kamloops, British Columbia, to immigrant parents, Jack and Sophie Lukaz. From a very young age, she often acted as their interpreter, developing an early understanding of communication, negotiation, and business — skills that would serve her well throughout her life and career. She grew up alongside her older brother and sister on a farm in North Kamloops, where the family tended crops, raised a few cows and sheep, and grew vegetables for market. Their home also served as a boarding house, welcoming many people over the years. These early experiences helped shape Jean’s resourcefulness, independence, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

By her mid-twenties, Jean had already enjoyed the opportunity to travel, including one particular adventure with friends to Europe and Paris that she loved to talk about. We can only imagine that this trip helped spark the travel bug that stayed with her throughout her life.

Jean met the love of her life, Stan, in 1960 while working at The Kamloops Daily Sentinel, a local newspaper. Their meeting marked the beginning a new chapter filled with marriage, family, and many adventures together. Family was always at the heart of Jean’s life, but she also built a successful career and devoted countless hours to helping others in her community.

Jean enjoyed a rewarding 35-year career with the Royal Bank, where her dedication, outgoing personality, and ability to connect with others made her a valued colleague and friend. Even after retirement, she maintained close connections with a special group of retirees, meeting regularly for lunch until only recently.

Jean’s generosity extended well beyond her working life. She volunteered with organizations including the Red Cross, the Lions Club, and the BC Wildlife Park, always ready to lend a hand wherever it was needed. Thoughtful, dependable, and generous with her time, Jean was often the first person to step in and take action. Whatever needed doing, she found a way to make sure it was taken care of.

Travel remained one of Jean’s great passions. She and her late husband, Stan, explored the world together, visiting Hawaii, Mexico, Cuba, China, India, Panama, England, Greece, Poland, Russia, the Caribbean, and many other memorable destinations. Some of these adventures included two very lucky young “tag-alongs” — her grandchildren, Benjamin and Carley. Whether discovering somewhere new or revisiting an old favourite, Jean treasured the experiences, laughter, and memories they created along the way.

Jean was a woman of many talents and interests. She loved gardening, painting, skiing, and curling, and she had a special gift for crafting. In the last decade of her life, Jean made staying active a regular part of her routine. She could often be found zipping off in her car to go swim laps at the TCC and do workouts at Planet Fitness. There was also always something creative in the works, often a unique, handmade treasure that she lovingly shared with others on special occasions.

She was also a wonderful entertainer who delighted in bringing people together. Her home was always open to family and friends, and gatherings were filled with laughter, conversation, and good company.

Jean had a special place in her heart for the animals that shared her life, including dogs, cats, and even birds. Their companionship brought her great happiness. In more recent years, one of her favourite pastimes was driving to Pioneer Park with her grandson’s dog, Delilah. The two could often be found enjoying the beach together as Jean threw Delilah’s toy into the water again and again. Regular visitors to the park came to recognize this familiar duo and would happily stop to say hello.

Jean will be remembered for her tenacity, spirited nature, creativity, abundant generosity, and the love she shared so freely. She would often say, “I’ve had a good life” — one filled with love, travel, laughter, friendship, and, above all, family. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who treasured time with those she loved and was deeply appreciative of the care, support, and companionship others brought to her life.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and entire healthcare team on 7 North at Royal Inland Hospital, who did all they could to support Jean’s recovery. We are deeply grateful for their kindness, compassion, and care during this difficult time.

Jean was predeceased by her beloved husband, Stan Tash; her son, Jack; her parents, Jack and Sophie Lukaz; her brother, John Lukaz; and her sister, Fran Kopec.

She leaves behind her loving son, Michael Tash (Julie Hall); her cherished grandchildren, Benjamin (Chantelle) Tash and Carley (Izaak) Patjas; her beloved great-grandchild, Macie Lee; a large extended family; and many dear friends, too numerous to name.

Though Jean will be deeply missed, her legacy lives on in her family, the friendships she nurtured, the places she explored, the things she created, and the many lives she touched.

Prayer service will be held on Wednesday evening at 7 p.m., October 28^th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Parish, 635 Tranquille Road (north shore) Kamloops, BC.

A Memorial Funeral Mass will take place Thursday morning at 11 a.m., October 29^th at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Parish, 635 Tranquille Road (north shore) Kamloops. Immediately after, there will be a luncheon held in the hall/gym.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kamloops Wildlife Park on behalf of Jean Tash are appreciated.

Arrangements entrusted to Kamloops Funeral Home, 250-554-2577

Condolences may be emailed to the family from www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

November 19, 1957 – September 17, 2026

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Kevin John Wells, who died in Kamloops, British Columbia on Sept 17, 2026, at the age of 68.

Kevin was born in Ottawa, Ontario, to John Wells and Clare Wells (nee Ryan Baldwin) and grew up in Toronto. He earned a Bachelor of Business in Economics and worked hard to become a Chartered Professional Accountant, a career he was very proud of. Kevin’s tenacity and dedication to his work enabled him to cultivate deeply trusting and long lasting relationships with his clients.

In 1983, Kevin met Michelle Wells (nee Brissette) through the Catholic Church in Whitecourt, Alberta. Faith was an important part of his life. Together, Kevin and Michelle raised their three children, Kathleen, Frances, and Matthew.

Family was at the heart of Kevin’s life. He loved visiting his children and grandchildren in Vancouver and Calgary and treasured his visits with family in Ontario. He loved travelling and road trips and had a wonderful ability to make everything an adventure. Some of his favourite places included Disneyland, Ireland, the Rocky Mountains, Commercial Drive, and Port Stanley, Ontario. He also loved movies and live theatre.

Kevin will be remembered for his kindness, thoughtfulness, and wonderful sense of humour. He was always looking for ways to lift others up and had a gift for finding something funny in almost any situation. His warmth and laughter brought joy to the people around him.

Kevin is survived by his children, Katie Larson (Michael Larson), Frances Wells (Naimul Alam), and Matt Wells (Cate Civitarese); his grandchildren, Michaela Larson, Marley Larson, Kestrell Larson, and Noa Wells; his siblings, Colleen Wells, Angela Elliott (Brad Elliott), and Brian Wells (Jess Wells); and his mother, Claire Marie Ryan Wells (nee Ryan Baldwin). As well, he is survived by his three nieces Ryan Elliott, Kyley Elliott and Samantha Brissette.

The funeral service will be held at 11:00AM on Friday, October 23, 2026, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH), located at 635 Tranquille Road, Kamloops, BC.

Kevin leaves behind a lifetime of family, laughter, adventures, and love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

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

April 4, 1937 – September 16, 2026

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Johann Theodor “Ted” Ross on September 16, 2026, in Kamloops, British Columbia.

Ted was born on April 4, 1937, in Düsseldorf, Germany. His early years were shaped by the hardships of growing up during the Second World War and the difficult conditions that followed in post-war Germany. In 1958, at the age of 21, Ted embarked on a new chapter in his life, emigrating to Canada.

He settled first in Montreal, where he lived from 1958 to 1967 and worked for an auto body fabricator. In 1962, Ted married Blanche King, beginning a partnership that would span more than five decades.

Ted and Blanche eventually made their way west, moving to British Columbia in 1969. Over the years, they called Pitt Meadows, Prince George, and later Kamloops home. In 1969, Ted joined Wajax Industries, where he built a long and successful career, remaining with the company until his retirement in 1999.

Ted and Blanche enjoyed many happy years playing golf, raising their beloved pet poodles, travelling, and, most importantly, spending time with friends and relatives. Their life together was filled with companionship, friendship, and the simple pleasures they both enjoyed.

Ted’s life was one of resilience and determination. From a childhood in wartime Germany to building a new life in Canada, he embraced the opportunities that came his way and created a life marked by hard work, enduring relationships, and many treasured years with Blanche. Predeceased by his parents and sister Ted is fondly remembered by his extended family Florence, Ivy, Thomas, Dallas, Gilbert, Geraldine and many nieces and nephews who enjoyed his stories of growing up in Germany. Ted was predeceased by his beloved wife, Blanche, in September 2016,
after 54 years of marriage.

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

In Loving Memory of Melody Mary Isenor

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Melody Mary Isenor, who left us far too soon on October 2, 2026. A beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, Melody lived her life on her own terms—with creativity, determination, humour, and an unwavering love for her family.

Born in New Westminster, Melody grew up in Barnhartvale on a hobby farm with her parents and two sisters, Jill and Darlene. As the big sister, Melody naturally took on the responsibility of trying to keep her younger sisters in line—although that often meant finding herself caught up in their adventures right alongside them.

Life on the farm provided no shortage of stories. Animals had a habit of finding their way into places they probably didn’t belong, including a sheep that once ended up bouncing on a bed. There was also Blinkey, a favourite chicken who earned a special place in Melody’s heart. Some of Melody’s happiest early memories were spent riding her horse with her friend Laurie, learning alongside her dad, Jim, while he worked as an electrician, and attending pottery classes with her mother, Rita. These early experiences helped shape the capable, independent woman she would become.

In the spring of 1978, at 18 years old, Melody met Alan, and she knew almost immediately that he was the one. Alan took her to her graduation, and on May 7, 1983, they were married. Later that same year, they welcomed their son, Devon, followed by their daughter, Angelee, in 1985, completing the family that would always be at the centre of Melody’s world.

Of course, there was plenty of fun along the way. Melody shared many memorable nights out with her friends Judy and Debbie. The three had perfected the art of going out without paying for their drinks—some unsuspecting gentleman would pick up the tab, only for the women to eventually ditch him and head home to their boyfriends. It was the kind of harmless mischief and laughter that made for stories worth retelling for decades.

Melody and Alan spent most of their life together raising their family in Rayleigh. There, they formed a particularly special friendship with their next-door neighbour, Shelia. The two families looked out for one another, and Melody and Shelia became like aunts to each other’s children. It was much more than simply being neighbours; it was an extended family created through years of friendship, trust, and shared life.

Melody and Alan also loved the friendships and community they found in Rayleigh. They enjoyed gatherings at the Ciulka’s and many memorable Halloween parties, most of which were held at Bob and Laurie Hart’s. Melody’s remarkable creativity was always on full display in the elaborate costumes she made for herself and Alan, turning fabric, imagination, and countless hours of work into something unforgettable.

That creativity was one of Melody’s greatest gifts. She had an incredible artistic mind and was exceptionally talented with textiles, sewing, and crafts. When she became involved with the medieval society, and archery she found yet another outlet for that talent, meticulously creating period costumes for herself and Alan to wear to events. She didn’t simply make things—she poured herself into them. She also found an eternal friendship with Jeannie, within the society and these memories will stay with her forever.

Melody loved Christmas and the joy of celebrating with her family. Her collection of nutcrackers grew into an army over the years, becoming a much-loved part of her Christmas decorations. Each holiday season brought another opportunity to fill the house with her creativity, festive spirit, and love.

Melody also loved taking photographs and had a keen interest in design. Her practical skills and creativity came together when she helped design and build the family home, installing all the wood and tile floors herself. The home they shared held her handiwork as well as the memories they made together.

For 26 years, Melody worked at Sears, beginning in the sewing department and working in several other departments over the years, including electronics and appliance sales. Along the way, she built lasting friendships with many of the people she worked alongside.

Away from work, some of Melody’s favourite times were the simplest ones: camping with extended family, fishing, sitting beside a lake, and enjoying the company of the people she loved. She and Alan spent many weekends fishing with Bob and Sherri’s family and Uncle George’s family, making memories that would stay with them for years.

Later in life, Melody took enormous joy in becoming a grandmother to Ryker and Tenley. She loved spending time with them, crafting together and creating memories during family trips to Vancouver and Penticton. Being their grandmother gave Melody another generation to share her imagination, creativity, and love with.

Melody could be wonderfully headstrong. She knew her own mind, wasn’t afraid to speak it, and throughout her life carved a path that was distinctly her own. She was creative, independent, determined, and deeply devoted to the people she loved.

Her life was made up of so many things: horses and chickens, fabric and costumes, photographs and home projects, camping trips and lakeside afternoons, neighbourhood gatherings, Halloween parties, Christmas celebrations and her army of nutcrackers, nights out with friends, family vacations, crafts with her grandchildren, and a love story with Alan that began when she was 18.

But more than anything, Melody loved her family, and we loved her.

Her passing leaves an absence that cannot be filled, but it also leaves a lifetime of stories—some touching, some hilarious, and many that will be told again and again.

She will be deeply missed by her husband Alan, her son Devon, her daughter Angelee, her grandchildren Ryker and Tenley, her sisters, extended family, and the many friends whose lives became intertwined with hers.

Melody was headstrong enough to carve her own path, creative enough to make it beautiful, and loved enough that those who knew her will continue carrying pieces of her with them wherever their own paths lead.

A Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 8, at 11 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Kamloops, 635 Tranquille Rd.

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