Reginald Alvin Henrotte

Reg was born on April 28, 1939, in Deerhorn, Manitoba, the third youngest of four brothers. He grew up on the family farm and walked a mile each way to his one-room schoolhouse, where 4 of the school’s 14 students were members of his own family. A lifelong friend described him as a very intelligent “straight shooter,” a fitting reflection of the quiet honesty and integrity that defined him. Although farm work wasn’t his favorite pastime, it sparked a lifelong appreciation for vintage John Deere tractors.

Reg began his career working in administration at the Eriksdale Hospital, where he met the love of his life, Karol. Together they built a life filled with adventure, moving to several communities across Canada, including Inuvik in the Northwest Territories, before eventually settling in British Columbia, where the milder winters were much more to his liking.

He spent the majority of his career as an Immigration Officer at the Sumas border crossing, serving with professionalism and quiet dedication. Reg was very much the strong, silent type, content to let Karol carry most conversations. At home, however, he had his own memorable role. When Karol worked night shifts, dinner was often liver and onions, a meal that, much to everyone’s surprise, became a favorite of his youngest son.

Reg was a longtime member of the Antique Threshermen’s Association in Chilliwack, where he enjoyed collecting and restoring vintage tractors and an assortment of other treasures. His love of antique tractors became a special bond he shared with his eldest son, Steven, and the time they spent together through that shared passion became a treasured part of their relationship. He was also an avid fan of James Bond films and loved travelling the world alongside Karol. Their adventures took them to many countries, and he was always happy to help bring home artwork, keepsakes, and the occasional unexpected souvenir, including an entire bathroom sink from Mexico.

Reg is lovingly remembered by his sons, Steven (Saleena) and Danny (Mighele), and by his cherished grandchildren, Rylee, Mattisen, Kallie, Maddix, and Gavin. He was predeceased by his beloved wife, Karol Henrotte; his parents, Marcel Henrotte and Ada Elsie Smith; and his brothers, Bruce, Dennis, and Lloyd Henrotte.

A Celebration of Life for both Reg and Karol will be held at Evergreen Hall, 9291 Corbould Street, Chilliwack, British Columbia, on Sunday, August 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Family and friends are warmly invited to gather in celebration of two lives well lived and a love that endured a lifetime.

Reg will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and reunited at last with his forever love, Karol. May they rest together in peace.