With profound sadness we announce the passing of Ernie on Friday, February 19, 2021 in Kamloops after a brief battle with cancer. Ernie was born  November 9, 1954 in Mission, BC and grew up there, developing many lasting friendships. In 1974, he moved to Kamloops to work at Lornex Miines, which later became Highland Valley Copper. During his 40 years at the mine, he made many lasting friendships. Starting in the Mill, he soon transferred to Pit Operations, where he excelled as an equipment operator, mainly running graders.

Ernie married the love of his life, Twila, on July 28, 1990, and they spent 30 wonderful years together. They loved their home on Dairy Road where they entertained many family and friends. Often just sitting on the deck having good conversation, enjoying the view and drinking a coffee. Ernie and Twila loved to travel and enjoyed many memorable trips together.

Ernie was predeceased by his wife Twila, his parents John and Margaret Unrau, and brother Andre. He is survived by his daughter Cindy Wassvik of Kamloops, his son James (Anna) Turnbull of Ontario,  grandson Milo (Cindy) and god son Michael Slater,  brother  Victor (Gerda) sister Lena (Chuck), Aunt Lena, numerous cousins ,nieces ,nephews and many friends.

On behalf of Ernie’s family we would like to send our sincere gratitude for the excellent care he received. The doctors, nurses and staff of 6 South at RIH as well as the staff at Overlander Trinity Hospice. Mostly, we would like to thank Dr. Howie, the nurse and staff of Trinity for their incredible care of Ernie these past months. Due to covid, a gathering will be held later in the year as allowed.

Arrangements entrusted to Kamloops Funeral Home 250-554-2577

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

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Dave on February 10, 2021 after a brief battle with cancer.  He was born on March 6, 1953 in North Bay, Ontario.  Dave moved to Kamloops with his family in 1967, where he has resided since.

He was a member of the IBEW Local 993 for 40 years. He was involved with KYSA and spent many years coaching his sons’ soccer teams. He enjoyed, curling, fishing, golfing, and camping with family and friends. Dave loved a good party, good scotch, good conversation and always had a joke to tell.

Dave is survived by his wife of 41 years, his high school sweetheart – affectionaly known as Luscious Linda (Lestage), sons Adam (Jessica), Jordan, his special daughter Arlean Galbraith, grandchildren Maddi and Austin, his four legged buddies Luca and Tucker (AKA little shit), sister Lynda (Bill) McLevin & family, brother Wayne (Karen)Rabidoux & family, brother in-law and sister in-law Wayne(Shelley)Lestage & family, sister in-law and brother in-law Rhonda(Murray) Leonew & family, father in-law Raymond Lestage, his best buddies Jim, Lorne and Mike as well as many more friends and family. Dave was predeceased by his mother Lois Zart, father Aldedge Rabidoux, step father Dennis Dawson, sister and brother in-law Marilyn and Brian Ens, mother-in-law Dorothy Lestage and sister-in-law Donna Meeley (Lestage).

Much gratitude to all the doctors and nurses on 7 North and Emergency who cared for Dave during his final weeks. 

Dave’s wishes were to be cremated. A celebration of Dave’s life will take place at a later time when friends and family can gather safely.  

Condolences may be sent to the family from

www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

December 27, 1938 – January 24, 2021

Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we say goodbye to our loved one.

Arlene was born in Edmonton, AB and raised in Tiger Lily, Camp Creek and Barrhead AB. She is survived by her children Linda (Dave) Maartman; Allen Gascon; Donna Gascon (Mike Malm); Grandchildren Tana (Colton) Hunt; Jerrid (Kelsey) Robinson; Taylor (Kylie) Robinson; Rochelle Gascon; Janel Maartman (Brant Philcox); and Bryce Maartman. Great-Grand children Adria Hunt; Ezra and Nora Robinson and her sisters Janice (Bruce) Lee and Geri (Ray) Talma.
Arlene was predeceased by her grandson Jesse Gordon Gerald Gascon (1994), her husband of 55 years Gerald Gascon (2015), her son Gordon Gascon (2017), her sister Marie (Jim) Slator and her parents Bill and Lena Mitton.
Mom met dad in Edmonton through mutual friends, and it was love at first sight. Arlene and Gerry were married July 9th, 1960, and moved Lac La Biche, AB. 
Ten years and 4 kids later, Arlene and Gerry left Lac La Biche, making the move to Sherwood Park in 1970, and Edmonton in 1971. A decision was made, and in February 1973, they packed up the family and headed to Kamloops, BC. Kamloops was still home to mom when she passed,
Mom was, for the most part, a stay-at-home mom. Family was very important to Mom, and she always made sure her husband and children were taken care of. Mom worked at K-mart in the late 70’s to the mid 80’s.

Mom and Dad provided the family with many fun-packed summers at the lake, horseback riding, snowmobiling, boating and many family road trips. Arlene and Gerry enjoyed extensive traveling throughout parts of BC, AB and the States; there was always another great Casino just around the corner!
Mom was still very active up until her passing. She loved meeting her friends at Bingo on Tuesday nights; weekly wine night with Vi Maartman, and lunch dates with her long-time friend of 80 years Darlene Spychka. She especially enjoyed bus trips to the Casinos in Washington and the Lower Mainland, traveling to Alberta to visit with family and friends, and did so right up until Covid closed everything down.

She also enjoyed spending time out at Shuswap Lake with the Maartman Family; playing board games with family, reading, and putting together puzzles. Arlene was incredibly patient, kindhearted and caring; she loved dancing and did so whenever and where ever possible. Mom was lovingly referred to as “The Dancing Grandma.” Mom brought so much love, joy and happiness to our family which will live on forever. The beautiful memories she has left us with will always be cherished.

A graveside service will be held with family in late Spring, 2021. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to a charity of your choice.

Mom’s favorite song was ‘Pack up Your Troubles in Your Old Kit-Bag and Smile, Smile, Smile’, take a listen to it, we know she’ll be dancing in the sky.

Condolences may be sent to the family fromwww.kamloopsfuneralhome.com

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Diana on February 4, 2021 at the age of 64, after a long battle with MSA, which she was diagnosed with in 2012. Diana is lovingly remembered by her spouse of over 35 years, Ken Shaw, her daughter Ashley (Ryan), her daughter Braelyn (Leon), and new granddaughter Averie. Also left to cherish her memory are her mother Judy; siblings John, Becky, Lorna, Dawn, and Lomma; along with many very dear friends and extended family. Diana worked for many years as a medical office assistant for family physicians in Chase and then for the Chase Optometric Center, before having to retire early due to her illness. Her strength, positive attitude, and grace in dealing with her condition were an inspiration to those who knew her. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to www.multiplesystematrophy.org

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

We regret to announce the passing of our beloved “Beans” – Gregory Stewart Sylvester on January 18th, 2021, due to complications of COVID-19.  The family will be respecting his last wishes of being cremated and buried next to his father in Tappen. Gregory Stuart Sylvester aka Beans: 28 Aug 1950 -18 Jan. 2021 age 70. Just a few shares of a cousin who was the last to carry the Sylvester name in My Kinbasket tree I work on. He is from the Casimer, Moses, and Elizabeth Moses Kinbasket line. Elizabeth Moses Kinbasket married John Sylvester. their son Pete married Eva Arnouse. they Had 3 children Gregory, Hazel and Gordon.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions the family will be having a private ceremony, but will be hosting a Memorial Service at a later date (TBA).  At this time we would like to invite everyone to join the “Gregory Stewart Sylvester “Beans” – Memorial” Facebook page, where you are welcome to post pictures and share stories.

Arrangements entrusted to Kamloops Funeral Home 250-554-2577

Condolences may be sent to the family from

www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com