Elmer Joseph Desroche

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Elmer Joseph DesRoche on February 21, 2019 in his 92nd year. Elmer was born in Summerside PEI in 1927 to Frank and Julia DesRoche. He made his way to British Columbia where he eventually met Helen, his beloved wife, constant companion and best friend of 53 years. Loving father of Bob DesRoches (Chris), Wayne DesRoches, and Tony DesRoches (Meggie) and predeceased by his daughter Teresa DesRoches and stepson Christopher Rathbone. Grandfather to Shawn DesRoches (Janine), Judith DesRoches (Dave), Annette Lindie (Jason), Randy DesRoches, T.J. DesRoches, Carren Runge, Charles Rathbone and Kimberley Rathbone. Great-grandfather to 13 great-grandkids. Elmer worked for the Kelowna Lumber Division of Crown Forest Industries from 1966 to 1988 when he retired. He was a master “boom man” and made walking on logs on Okanagan Lake look easy! Elmer and Helen travelled the world over the years and created many special memories. Elmer was an active member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, serving in various callings including Elders Quorum President. He and Helen also served a two-year mission in the South Dakota Rapid City Mission. He held offices with the Fraternal Order of Rebekah’s and Oddfellows. Our family expresses our sincere appreciation to special friends of Elmer and Helen – Shelley, Sheila, Else, Jean and so many others, and our heartfelt thank-you to the staff at the Village at Mill Creek for their wonderful loving care of Elmer. A celebration of Elmer’s life will be held at The Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, 696 Glenmore Road, Kelowna, at 4:30 pm on Friday March 1, 2019. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Canadian Cancer Society, the Alzheimers Society or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com . Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299