It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of Orin Virgol Jonat. Orin passed suddenly, while doing what he loved with the one he loved – mountain biking with his wife of 43 years in the beautiful trails of Rossland, BC.
Orin led a full life, immersing himself completely, and quickly becoming an expert in everything he did- whether that be mountaineering, breeding and showing dogs, photography or any of the numerous other activities he enjoyed. He was relentless in his drive to understand and master every aspect of any endeavor he or his children undertook. This entailed not only teaching himself and his family to ski, snowboard, backpack, rock climb and weight lift, but also spending countless hours ensuring their sports equipment was immaculately maintained. When not exploring the mountains with his family he dedicated himself to his work as an Executive Director with the Fraser Health Authority and volunteered with local organizations including the Central Fraser Valley Search and Rescue, White Rock Community Football Organization, Semiahmoo Soccer Club and the Black Jacks Nordic Ski Club, to name a few.
Orin is survived by his wife, Nancy, his three children, Barry (and Megan), Corey (and Tasha) and Brittany (and Daniel), three grandchildren and their dog, Griffin.
His family will fondly remember him for his sense of humour, positive outlook and sound advice.
As an expression of sympathy, the family asks that donations be made to your local Search and Rescue to honour Orin’s love of exploring the great outdoors.
Kole Roth of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
You are invited to leave a personal message of condolence.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Orin Virgol Jonat July 5th 2022..
Death notice for the town of: Trail, Province: Colombie britanique
I joined Fraser Health in 2003 and Orin was one of the first people I met. Since that time and until I left in 2016, we worked closely together on a variety of innovative initiatives – some successful, some not…but always with best intentions. I was truly saddened to hear of his passing – he was far too young and gave so much to this world. I will always remember his sense of humour and his wisdom, integrity, and commitment. Orin was a trusted advisor to me, a mentor to many, and someone I could always rely on no matter what the circumstances. He had a big heart, cared deeply about his family, and loved the outdoors. He always gave his utmost at work to improve the healthcare system and had a penchant for taking complex ideas/problems and simplifying them into manageable components. I will miss him deeply and regret that I have not been in touch over the past few years. Now it is too late – but his memory will stay with me forever. Rest in peace my friend – you were a good soul and we were all fortunate to have known you! Peter Goldthorpe
My deepest sympathies to Jonat Family, I worked with Orin directly and reported him for many years, he was the kindest soul and the best manager one could have. He was a visionary person and a great leader and he was my mentor in many things.
We will all deeply miss his leadership and guidance.
Tahir Joseph