Malcolm Oliver

(Francis) Malcolm Harold Oliver passed away on October 21, 2025. A celebration of his life will be held at the hall of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), Local 115, located at 4333 Ledger Avenue, Burnaby, BC, on Saturday, January 10 at 1:00 p.m.

Malcolm was deeply loved by so many and will be missed beyond measure. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Darlene (née Wise); his daughters, Lisa (Brad) Newby and Kim (Scott) Welton; his grandchildren, Aidan, Conor and Colette Newby, and Tanner and Koler Welton; as well as his siblings, Nancy (Meredith), Heather (Murray), Allison (Zazula), and Donny.

Family was everything to Malcolm. He was the storyteller of the extensive Oliver and Wise clans—the one who kept the memories alive and the laughter flowing. You could always count on Malcolm to be there if you needed a kind word or a funny joke to lighten the mood.

Malcolm was a guiding light and steady hand for so many—especially among the working men and women he proudly called his brothers and sisters. He led by quiet example: humble, hardworking, and loyal to the core. Whether in the shop, on the job site, or around the union hall, people sought him out for his calm wisdom and good humour. He had a gift for making others feel seen and supported, whether they were seasoned tradespeople or young workers just starting out. His honesty, compassion, and strength earned him deep respect, and his legacy lives on in the countless lives he steadied and inspired.

Malcolm understood the hardships of life—the long days, the setbacks, and the losses that inevitably come with living—but he never let them darken his outlook. He was the kind of man who could always find the silver lining, the lesson, or the laugh in any situation. He carried a deep sense of nostalgia for the people and places that shaped him, often recalling the past with warmth and gratitude. For many family and friends, he was the one they turned to for understanding and perspective. His quiet empathy and grounded wisdom provided comfort through hard times, and his belief in the goodness of people lifted spirits and restored hope.

A proud member of the International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 115 since 1969, Malcolm served in many roles over the years, but most meaningfully as a heavy-duty mechanic and, beginning in 2001, as dispatcher. In that role, he found his life’s calling—as a teacher, helper, and champion of others, especially with young people beginning their careers.

Malcolm’s hands were strong, his heart was generous, and his presence was a comfort to all who knew him. His stories, humour, and integrity will continue to guide the family, friends, and co-workers who were lucky enough to share in his life.

He made the world lighter just by being in it.