Wayne was born in Kelowna BC on December 22, 1950, to Don and Alice Van Steinburg. He was the oldest of 5 children and grew up on a farm in Rutland with his parents and siblings. He shared many fond memories of the farm with his brothers and sister and all the many friends that shared their home.
Wayne was an avid truck driver. His love for driving took him to many places in BC, Alberta and parts of Washington. He did this for many years before he was diagnosed with Parkinsons and gave up the long-haul driving and began to focus on personal hobbies. This included making all sorts of projects out of wood, taking care of his yard, fixing/creating things with whatever he had on hand, painting various landscapes, and playing his guitar. He was also very social and generous with his time. If you needed a hand, he was your man. In addition, spending time with his kids and grandchildren was important to him.
In 2000, when Wayne was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, he spent many years learning and helping others who had the same disease. He was instrumental with starting the Parkinson Support group here in Kelowna and was the Chairman for many years. During these years, he made many dear friends from this group. Once the disease progressed, he had to step down but still attended the group. He then spent the last 7 years in the care of Cottonwoods where the staff were kind to him and gave him wonderful care.
He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis, of 45 years; his children, Sean (Carolyn) Van Steinburg and Sue (Sean) Guidi; his brothers, Lee Van Steinburg, Mervyn (Terri) Van Steinburg, Ian (Julie) Van Steinburg & sister Janet Kam. He had 5 grandchildren who loved their Papa/Grandpa. He will also be missed by his sister-in-law & brother-in-law, Betty & Harry Doberstein, brother-in-law, Jack Papps, sister-in-law, Elaine Papps, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his parents Don and Alice Van Steinburg.
Wayne will be deeply missed by all who loved him.
A celebration of life will be held on Friday May 23 at 1:00 p.m., located at Valleyview Funeral Home, 165 Valleyview Road, Kelowna, BC.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to Parkinson’s Society of BC.
