Van Pelt: Leo. It is with sadness we announce the passing of our dear father, Leo Van Pelt on March 8th, exactly one month after he celebrated his 84th birthday. He is predeceased by his wife Martha in 2007 and survived by his 5 children: Sharon (Hartley), Kim (Victor), Kelly (Dennis), Karen (Bearj), and Leo Jr. (Charlotte). He is also survived by 11 Grandchildren, 8 great Grandchildren, and extended family and friends. For the past 7 years, Leo had a good friend and companion Martha Friesen who provided great comfort and company to Dad during the last few years. Leo immigrated to Canada from Holland in 1951 and landed in Edmonton with his family. He eventually went to school to get his Electrician and Mechanic tickets. This led to him opening his own gas station in Edmonton. Dad was also an accomplished drummer in a band called the Diamonds in the early years. It was at one of the dances where he met Martha his bride to be and Mother of his children. They married in Edmonton on May 30, 1959 until her passing in Oct 2007 and enjoyed 48 years of marriage. Dad started working at Simpson Sears automotive in Edmonton until he was recruited by the Simpsons Sear store Manager of Kelowna in 1971, Kelowna was now home. Leo was very active in the Community always as an involved member and contributed his time and enthusiasm to whatever organization he belonged to: Kelowna Yacht Club (Life member), Canadian Power Squadron (various Board Positions), Nordic Ski Club, and the Elks, to name just a few. Dad was most proud of his family and he was a great mentor. One thing for sure, Dad liked to dance and he enjoyed a good scotch. He taught us hard work and integrity. He loved his family and we truly loved him back. We are forever grateful for the excellent care Dad received at Kelowna General Hospital. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Heart & Stroke foundation would be appreciated. No funeral service by request, however, an Open House Celebration of Life will be held at the Elks ( 1923 Kent Road) on Sunday March 17th from 1 PM to 4PM. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com . Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna. 250-762-2299
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18