Valerie Christine Elaine Fortey

Valerie Christine Elaine Fortey, known to family and friends as Val, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at 7:01 p.m. at The Vineyards Residence in Kelowna, British Columbia. She was 79 years old.

Val was born on June 5, 1947, in Swan River, Manitoba. At approximately four or five years of age, she became the beloved daughter of Lewis Thomas Fortey and Constance Christine Matilda Fortey. Shortly after her adoption, Lewis and Connie returned to England, taking Val with them, and it was there that she spent her school years. Although she later returned with her parents to Canada, her affection for England remained with her throughout her life. She particularly loved memories of England’s south coast and Brighton.

Val’s devotion to her parents was profound. She carefully preserved their letters, certificates, photographs and family records, and after her father’s death she became especially devoted to the care of her mother. When Connie reached 100, Val celebrated her with a trip to Hawaii and lovingly documented the years they shared. Among the many records Val left behind is a lovingly prepared account entitled Connie’s Quirks and Quarks, capturing the observations, small adventures and gentle humour of their later years together. It is a testament to the depth of the bond between mother and daughter.

Val’s own life was shaped by that same capacity for devotion and care. She was a person who stood up for the people she loved and could be counted on to protect them, advocate for them and put their needs before her own.

An artist and professional graphic designer, Val worked independently and on contract throughout much of her career, living and working in Vancouver, Kamloops and Kelowna. Her creative work encompassed graphic design, illustration, drawing, painting and mixed media. Her professional work included projects in advertising and design, while her personal art gave her the freedom to explore new ideas, mediums and subjects simply for the joy of creating.

Val returned to education as a mature student, studying in British Columbia with a particular interest in photography, fine art and computer graphics. In her own words, the values at the heart of her artistic life were “exploration, discovery, execution and commitment.”

These were more than words to Val; they were principles she lived by. She understood that art was not simply about producing a finished piece, but about the freedom to experiment, discover, take risks and enjoy the process. She was generous in sharing what she knew and enthusiastic about exploring new techniques and possibilities with others. A natural teacher, she inspired people to create more freely, trust their instincts and worry less about the end result. Through her art, she offered others not only ideas and techniques, but also encouragement to discover something of their own.

She never really stopped exploring. Even in retirement, Val continued to play with art, experiment with new mediums and find inspiration in unexpected places. In the last year of her life, while moving between hospice and long-term care, she discovered the simple pleasure of rock painting and eagerly invited others to join her. Art became a way to keep exploring, to find moments of pleasure and renewal, and to connect with the people around her. She shared her enthusiasm for colour and creativity freely, giving away her painted rocks as small, personal gifts. Some of these creations remain treasured keepsakes, continuing to bring pleasure and evoke memories of Val.

Those who spent time with Val during her stays at hospice saw how her enthusiasm and laughter could gradually return, alongside her renewed engagement with painting. Her curiosity, creative spirit and ability to connect with others left a lasting impression on those who came to know her, even over a relatively short time. Her influence extended beyond the art she made to the people she encouraged, the friendships she formed and the joy she brought into their lives.

Val shared approximately 40 years of her life with her beloved life partner, Christine (Chris) Moores. Val often said that the first time she saw Chris, she knew she had found her person. Together they travelled extensively, exploring the United States, Mexico, South America, Hawaii and the United Kingdom. They shared a zest for life, a love of travel and, no doubt, more than a little mischief along the way.

In later years, Val became Chris’s primary caregiver as Chris’s memory declined. Even while dealing with her own health challenges, Val continued to focus on making sure Chris was cared for and protected. Caring for those she loved was not simply something Val did; it was one of the defining qualities of her life. The love, respect and devotion they shared were evident to those around them throughout their years together.

Animals held a similarly special place in Val’s heart. Their cats and dogs were never merely pets; they were family. Their beloved Chihuahua, Keisha, went everywhere with them and was cherished as their daughter. When Val and Chris entered long-term care, giving Keisha up was one of the hardest things they had to do. They remained deeply grateful to their friends Wayne and Karen for opening their home and hearts to her and caring for Keisha.

Val was unmistakable. She had a presence about her—often wearing a colorful, thoughtfully coordinated outfit that she took pleasure in putting together, with a smile and a characteristic glint in her eye. She was curious and inquisitive, and a conversation with Val might begin with a thoughtful question and end with a gently humorous observation. Her humour could be subtle, sometimes so subtle that it could be missed if you weren’t paying attention. Yet there was also a delightfully irreverent side to her, an appreciation for the unexpected and a willingness to say or create something that might catch you off guard and leave you laughing. That, too, was very much Val.

She was hardworking and focused when something mattered to her, whether it was an artistic project, renovating furniture or a home, documenting family history, or caring for someone she loved. Beneath it all was a clear and honest view of life and a passionate belief that there are good and caring people in the world.

Val’s life was a reflection of that belief. She had been fortunate to receive great love from her parents, and she returned that love many times over—to her parents, to Chris, to her friends, to her animals, and to the many people whose lives she touched. She gave of herself through acts of care and devotion, but also through her curiosity, her humour, her willingness to share what she knew and her encouragement of others to explore their own creativity. She left behind more than artwork and carefully preserved records: she left memories, connections and small reminders of the difference one person can make in the lives of others.

Val is survived by her beloved life partner of approximately 40 years, Christine (Chris) Moores, and by Keisha, their cherished dog and “daughter,” who is lovingly cared for by Wayne and Karen.

She was predeceased by her adoptive parents, Lewis and Constance Fortey.

Val and Chris received exceptional care at The Vineyards Residence during their final months there. Val’s passing was peaceful and dignified, with Chris and those closest to her at her side.

Val leaves behind a life expressed through art, colour, curiosity, humour, devotion and care—and through the many records, creations and memories she so carefully preserved for those who would come after her. Her art lives on not only in the things she made, but also in the people she inspired, the connections she fostered and the joy she shared.

She will be deeply missed.

A Celebration of Life for Val will be held on Friday, October 23, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at The Vineyards Residence in Kelowna, British Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honour Val’s memory are invited to make a donation to an animal welfare charity of their choice, in recognition of her enduring love for animals.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services (Dignity Memorial) Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299