A sudden death. Unexpected. He always seemed so indestructible.

Born in Trail, he developed a love for the outdoors, particularly fishing and hunting.

He worked in logging camps and house construction before he responded to his true calling.

He was a family doctor in the real sense and for 45 years was involved in the lives of many people, from deliveries to terminal care and everything in between.

He was knowledgeable about many things and enjoyed teaching. He was a wise counselor and a big man in every sense—strong, gentle, and comfortable to be around.

He was passionate about his work and could not contemplate retiring.

He was respected by his colleagues, loved by his patients, and at ease with his friends.

A strong family man, he leaves behind his wife, Irene; son, Julian (Shannon); daughter, Mary (Paul), and two grandchildren as well as his five sisters and a large extended family. Some 500 people came from far and near to pay their respects at the celebration of his life.

He is missed.

—Eric Paetkau, MD
Sechelt