GAWNE, William Sidney
William Sidney Gawne died peacefully in his home on the 21st of December, at age 75.
Born in Penticton, and raised in Naramata, Bill was predeceased by his parents, J.E. (Bud) and Kathleen (Kit) Gawne, his infant daughter Gina, wife Karen (Caruso) and brother Albert (Bud Jr.).
He will be fondly remembered by son Michael, brother Geoff (Lory), sisters Jeanne (Nigel) Lamb & Nancy (Bert) Brosseuk, sister-in-law Rita Gawne, aunts, Goldie and Mabel Gawne, Penticton… Read More » and Joyce Warrington / Nasica Avignon; in addition, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and the many folks he shared laughs with.
He apprenticed as a plumber/pipe fitter, certified with courses at BCIT. Bill never took himself too seriously, making light of life, rules and conventions, but was exacting in his work ethic, enjoying the challenge of problem solving at job sites. He appreciated his trade providing opportunities to work in the US, Australia and the UAE. His earlier sense of adventure involved being a faller and building a log home in Kaslo. Obtaining his Class 1 license prompted a move to Watson Lake, YK, delivering propane to remote locations through unspoiled wilderness, then working in construction for 5 years. His favourite vacation destinations were Mexico and Panama.
Bill’s hobbies, included hunting, fishing, gardening, wine making, Sunday crosswords and cooking, but he will be remembered most for his ability to make almost everyone he encountered laugh. In an extended family of story tellers, he more than held his own!
Bill loved reading, so when not working he was never without a book or far from a local library. In his last year, learning how to use an iPad for downloads opened a treasure trove for his curiosity.
Always ready to assist others, Bill dreaded the thought of losing his independence. Dialysis helped him exceed his “three score and ten” and returned him to Penticton for more time with relatives and friends.
Sincere thanks to all the nurses, technicians, and doctors who cared for him, first with home Peritoneal dialysis in Sicamous, then hemodialysis in Kelowna and subsequent chronic hemodialysis in the Penticton Hospital Renal Unit during his thrice weekly “runs”. Special thanks to Dr. Kooy, Dr. Forzby and PRH nurses. Bill was most appreciative of all the care provided and tried to repay with new jokes and dry humour during each visit. Memorial donations may be directed to the BC Kidney Society. A celebration of his life will take place at a the Naramata Community Church Hall, 3rd St. and Robinson, Naramata.
Nos plus sincères sympathies à la famille et aux amis de William Sydney Gawne July 18 1942 December 21 2017.source
Décès pour la Ville: Kelowna, Province: Colombie britanique
