Rioh passed away suddenly in his home on Saturday, July 6, 2024. He was 81 years old.
Rioh is survived by his wife of 55 years, Lillian; his son, Darren; daughter-in-law, Rhonda; and grandson, Cisko. He will be fondly remembered by his brothers Hoberly Hove (Maureen), Rhico Hove (Penny), and Philo Hove (Pavaro Bhikkhu), as well as by many nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends throughout the Interior and Kootenays.
Rioh was born in Penticton, BC, to Helen Hove and Bennett Hove. He enjoyed many summers working on the family farm in Grand Forks, BC. Countless days were spent swimming and fishing with his brothers at the Kettle River. In the late ’60s, he was introduced to the love of his life, Lillian from Kamloops, and the rest, as they say, is history. Lillian and Rioh enjoyed a fulfilling life in Kamloops, where they raised their son, Darren.
Rioh was a Cub Scout leader for Darren’s troop in the ’70s and ’80s, and he loved skiing and camping with his family. He worked as a Power Line Technician throughout the region for Kootenay Power and Light and BC Hydro. During his career, he contributed to major power infrastructure projects, including Mica Creek Dam, Brenda Mines, and others.
Later in his career, his focus turned to workplace safety, a high priority for him as a Power Line Technician. Rioh was the recipient of the first-ever BC Hydro Safety Award. He enjoyed sharing his knowledge and was proud to present several workshops on safety throughout British Columbia. As a dedicated leader, he was known for being meticulous with his crew’s gear and for demanding precision on job sites.
Rioh was very proud of his Norwegian heritage and was a member of the Sons of Norway. He was also an active member of the Masonic Lodge, where he served as a Grand Master, and a Shriner, helping raise funds for various children’s charities in the area. Rioh had an artistic side and was a talented calligrapher. His works of art showed great care, detail, and creativity. A voracious reader, he was knowledgeable on many topics. In retirement, he enjoyed traveling and often went RVing with family and friends. He especially loved visiting Vernon to watch Cisko’s basketball and football games.
Most recently, Rioh was honored to celebrate his grandson Cisko’s graduation and acceptance to McGill University, where Cisko committed to playing football for the McGill Redbirds.
He will be missed by all who knew him.
A memorial will be held at a future date in Kamloops, BC
Condolences may be sent to the family from
www.kamloopsfuneralhome.com