John Degelman

It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of John Degelman on May 18, 2012 in his 88th year, at the Kelowna Hospice House. John is lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend for over 65 years Ruby, and by his two daughters, Judi Daudrich (Dave) and Sharon Roberts (Brian), his sweet little dog Chiquita, and his brother Leo (Dodie) of Winnipeg. “Oompa” will also be fondly remembered by his grandchildren Keri Vandongen (Frank), Derek Daudrich (Kerstin), Breanne Daudrich (Keith), Shawn Roberts (Shari) and one dear great-granddaughter, Avarie. John was born in Transcona, Manitoba where he lived until he joined the Canadian Armed Forces. He worked as an Air Traffic Controller and one of the highlights of his military career was moving the family to Metz, France for 4 years. Upon his first retirement in 1968 he took a position with Transport Canada at the Winnipeg International Airport pursuing the same career and finally retired for the last time in 1985. That same year he moved to Kelowna, along with Dave & Judy where he enjoyed his retirement years. John will be fondly remembered for his love of gardening, carpentry, his musical talent, his fearless embrace of new technology and his love of good food and wine. He was never without a good book to read. He had many great friends and neighbors over the years and loved to entertain in his home. He was a talented musician and played the accordion. Over the years he played in many bands and most recently was a member of the Okanagan Accordion Club which he enjoyed immensely. John was an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion, the Royal Canadian Airforce Wing, as well as a Master Mason. His mother lodge was the Black Forest Lodge of Bavaria. John and Ruby loved vacations to Hawaii, and visiting their grandchildren. He also loved playing all types of card games, and after dinner parties, the cards usually came out. He was highly respected, dearly loved and will be deeply missed. The family offers their heartfelt thanks Dr. Peter Butterworth, the Palliative Care Team especially Deanna and Kathryn, the staff at Missionwood and the volunteers and staff at Hospice House for their wonderful care. Service will be held at First Memorial Funeral Services on Thursday, May 31, 2012 at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Kelowna SPCA, 3785 Casorso Road, Kelowna, BC V1W 4M7.