Merritt Herald January 8, 2026

BACK PAGES

PAGE 11-30

REAL ESTATE REVIEW

A TRIBUTE TO LIVES REMEMBERED

See inside for all the latest real estate opportunities in the Herald’s brand-new section.

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2025

The Herald pays tribute to those that we lost in the last calendar year with the annual Tribute To Lives Remembered special section.

E S T. 1 9 0 5

FREE

ute teored b i r T A ememb v i L es R

r acy of ou ing the leg ects In honour special feature refl this ies of , or ity em un m m com and s, rie sto , es on the liv we lost in 2025. those s, we pay r these page Through ed members of ou erish ch impact to te tribu ving their ns. er es pr , community for future generatio ory and mem

2025 ies of

Legac

CHILL SEEKERS

LL-OUT

PU -PAGE

URE:

FEAT

?

PAGE

-?

IAL 20

SPEC

PHOTO/MERRITT CENTENNIALS

AN ICY PLUNGE – It was a cold New Year’s Day in the waters of Nicola Lake for the Merritt Centennials and a few others at the annual Polar Bear Swim.

#122 - 1700 Garcia Street Railyard Mall Merritt, BC

250-378-5147

2 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate BC LTD. Don Gossoo

Doug Beech 250-378-7392

movingrealestate.c21.ca

250-378-6166 |1-877-841-2100 Brad Yakimchuk

Bailee Allen 250-315-9648

Managing Broker

(Owner)

®

#102, 2840 Voght Street, Box 236 Merritt, B.C. V1K 1B8

Personal Real Estate Corporation

SCAN ME

250-315-3043 2960 MCLEAN PLACE

4116 WALTERS STREET

1313 SPRUCE AVENUE

1837 MILLER ROAD

NEW Spacious 5 bedrm 3 bath family home on quiet cul de sac. Home is bright & inviting with dozy gas F/P in living room, kitchen overlooks the back yard, complete with gardens & chicken coop. Fully fin. bsmt.

Spacious 2 storey home in desirable Bench area.

Has 4 bedrms, 4 baths, spacious family rm & a rec. room & more. Enjoy the private, landscaped back yard. Has double garage, RV parking. New HW tank, roof & A/C.

In great location close to park, this 3 bedrm basement entry home on a quiet street. Hardwood & ceramic floors, huge oak country kitchen with open dining rm, 5 bedrms 4 baths, 2 gas F/P’s & 2 bedrm suite.

Country living at its finest, set on 9.91 acres with views of Sunshine Valley. This spacious family home has 4 bedrms, 3 baths, spacious living & dining areas with sprawling deck. The walkout basement has an inlaw suite. Has detached outbldgs for storage.

MLS#10368851

MLS#10371310

MLS#10370326

LS#10365078

$512,000

923 MIDDAY VALLEY RD

$689,000

3104 PANORAMA DRIVE

$555,000

2099 CASTILLOU CRESCENT

$1,075,000

LOT 1, MIDDAY VALLEY RD

NEW Approx. 272 acres of land with great potential for many possibilities. Current zoning is for a development of min. 2 acre lot, within city limits.

Rural living within close proximity of city amenities.

Fantastic views of the valley.

Expansive home of over 3700 sq.ft. on 5 acres with panoramic views. Home has 1730 sq.ft. on the main with an unfin. bsmt of 1130 sq.ft., 3 bedrms & 2 baths. Being sold “as is where is”. Call for more details.

Fantastic 4 bedrm, 2 bath family home on quiet backside of Bench in desirable area. Spacious living area & functional layout for everyone to enjoy.

Features covered front porch, Attached single car garage, large fully useable back yard, ideal for kids & pets. RV parking in back. Close to school.

A development property of approx.. 5 acres with fantastic views of the valley, with R-3 zoning.

Services at road side. A great opportunity. Call for more details.

MLS#10371288

MLS#10370637

MLS#10366834

MLS#10371361

$3,200,000

1305 SPRUCE AVENUE

$568,900

2438 JACKSON AVENUE

1304 SPRUCE AVENUE

$644,000

$500,000

1675 CANFORD AVENUE

1561 BANN STREET

3311S COLDWATER RD

D

SOL New full side by side duplex, under construction.

Live in one side & rent the other. Each unit has 3 bedrms, 2.5 baths, den, large great room, kitchen & dining room. 2 car garage. Comes with A/C, landscaping & New Home Warranty. GST applies

A delightful blend of vintage charm and modern updates, set on a 9,000 sq.ft. lot, in central location.

Home has 2 bedrms, 1 bath, and a partial bsmt with rec.room & storage. Has had many reno’s including electrical, flooring & paint.

House under construction – New rancher with open concept style kitchen with quartz counters, spacious living room, central A/C, 2 bedrms & 2 full baths. 2 car garage & covered patio in back. GST applies. Call for full details.

5 bedrm, 3 bath home, close to schools & shopping.

Features large kitchen that opens to dining room, large living room on main with a family room on the upper level. Has lane access and lots of parking plus a double garage.

Spacious family home with 5 bedrms, 5 baths, granite counters in kitchen with island. Many recent upgrades of new flooring, paint, light fixtures, solar roof panels & Generac generator. Private back yard is a gardeners paradise.

Semi custom home of 3942 sq.ft. on 5.6 acres along the Coldwater River. Home has 3 bedrms, 3 baths, open Mill Creek kitchen with granite counters, huge centre island, custom ceiling in formal dining room, large family rm, den & a wine cellar.

MLS#10371233

MLS#10369537

MLS#10361090

MLS#10367656

MLS#10361682

MLS#10369656

$950,000

2564 COUTLEE AVENUE

$389,900

1661 BANN STREET

$545,000

$545,000

$839,000

$1,625,000

3020 PROSPECT CREEK

2498 CHAPMAN STREET

#305, 1703 MENZIES ST

1407 FIR AVENUE

D

SOL Charming updated rancher with 3 bedrooms, a bright & welcoming kitchen that opens to living room, perfect for both relaxing & entertaining. The large backyard provide plenty of room to garden.

Quick possession.

Spacious 5 bedrm, 3 bath family home with office & family room plus 2 bedroom suite mortgage helper with privat entrance. On large 10,208 sq.ft. lot, with beautiful back yard, valley views & double garage.

9.8 acres, fully usable, along Spius Creek, just 20 mins. from Merritt. 2021 modular home has 3 bedrms 2 baths, vaulted ceilings, large windows, gourmet kitchen with island & pantry, plus a large family room. 2 large sheds.

Charming 2 bedrm, 1 bath rancher on quiet cul de sac, on 0.3 acre lot near Nicola River, with views of the mountains & golf course. Has detached 2 car garage, ideal for parking, storage or hobbies.

Subject to Probate.

Great investment in Nicola Apartments! This 1 bedrm unit on the 3rd floor with freshened up kitchen cabinet doors and counter, upgraded bathrm vanity and a full wall unit for TV & books.

Currently tenanted.

Approx. 3000 sq.ft. home in good area. Has 3 bedrms up, 2 baths, kitchen has oak cabinets & open design and a large family. Basement has 2 bedrm suite with new flooring & 5 pce bath. Large deck in fenced yard.

MLS#10364934

MLS#10368753

MLS#10366909

MLS#10364819

MLS#10370706

MLS#10371125

$399,900

2138 CLARKE AVENUE

$665,900

#24, 1749 MENZIES ST

$1,090,000

$349,000

#33, 254 HIGHWAY 8

1964 PARKER DRIVE

$165,000

2638 JACKSON AVENUE

D

SOL

$549,000

2301 CLAPPERTON AVENUE

D

SOL

Spacious 4 bedrm home on 8250 sq.ft. lot with room for gardering or future expansion. Has large living area that flows into the kitchen & dining space. Has fully finished bsmt. Central A/C, newer HW tank & furnace. Close to school & shopping.

Bright & inviting 3 bedrm, 2 bath unit in sun Valley Court, a well maintained strata complex. Has recent updates of new vinyl plank flooring & carpeted bedrms, modern appliances & refresh countertops. Fenced backyard.

Impressive 3,000+ sq.ft. family home in prime location with views over the Nicola Valley. This spacious home has 4 bedrms, 3 bath, recent modern upgrades, updated furnace& a kitchen island. Fenced yard with inground pool.

Spacious corner unit in Lower Nicola MH Park. Home offers 2 bedrms plus den. Enjoy the extra outdoor space the corner lot comes with including large covered deck & 2 sheds. Pad rent $474 per month.

Large half duplex featuring 3 bedrms, 2 baths, large living room, plus a spacious family room in the basement. Fully fenced back yard, RV parking. A fantastic opportunity you won’t want to miss!

Great rancher for retirees or first time buyers, close to shopping & schools. Features 3 bedrms, 2 baths, and comes with appliances. Has fenced back yard with access to yard for RV parking. Has patio, shed & kennel.

MLS#10356374

MLS#10366741

MLS#10370509

MLS#10366178

MLS#10361280

MLS#10370320

$420,000

$369,000

movingrealestate.c21.ca

•

$739,000

378-6166

$149,900

•

$345,000

$399,900

movingrealestate.c21.ca

NEWS HOME VALUES SEE SLIGHT NICOLA VALLEY

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 3

GOT NEWS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

DROP IN NEW ASSESSMENT The 2026 BC Assessment values are out, with Merritt properties seeing numbers on par with most of the Southern Interior.

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

BC Assessments has released its 2026 values report for properties across the province, with those in the Southern Interior remaining mostly steady across its nearly 450,000 properties.

“For 2026, most homeowners can expect generally modest property assessment value changes in the -5 per cent to +5 per cent range for many Thompson Okanagan communities while homeowners in Kootenay Columbia areas may see a slightly higher rate of change in the -5 per cent to +10 per cent range,” said BC Assessment Deputy Assessor Boris Warkentin.

City of Merritt properties saw a slight 2 per cent decrease in average property values, with single family residential homes dropping from $458,000 to $450,000 as of July 2025 when the valuations were completed.

Overall, the Southern Interior’s total assessments saw a slight increase from about $323 billion in 2025 to almost $330 billion this year.

Elsewhere nearby, the City of Kamloops saw no change in its average valuation of $693,000, while Lake Country valuations saw quite a negligible decrease from $450,000 to $449,000.

Lytton saw by far the largest gap in valuation changes at a 30 per cent increase from $233,000 to $303,000, thanks to continuing recovery efforts after the village burnt down in 2021.

The largest decrease in the Thompson-Okanagan was seen

in Ashcroft, where valuations dropped five per cent from $416,000 to $396,000.

Updated property values are now available at bcassessment. ca. There property owners can find information regarding their assessment, and those who feel that their property assessment does not reflect market value as of July 1, 2025 or see incorrect information on their notice should contact BC Assessment as soon as possible.

“If a property owner is still concerned about their assessment after speaking to one of our appraisers, they may submit a Notice of Complaint (Appeal) by January 31st, for an independent review by a Property Assessment Review Panel,” said Warkentin.

Effect on property tax How your new property value aligns with the average change in value in Merritt can have a effect on your property taxes.

A lower-than-average change in your property value means your taxes will likely decrease, while the opposite rings true if your new valuation is higher than the average.

“It is important to understand that changes in property assessments do not automatically translate into a corresponding change in property taxes,” said Warkentin.

“As noted on your assessment notice, how your assessment changes relative to the average change in your community is what may affect your property taxes.” ​​​

PHOTO/UNSPLASH

Property values for 2025 have been released by BC Assessment, which assesses property values based on their worth on July 1 of the previous year.

4 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

HEAT PUMP & INVESTIGATION ACC GAS FITTING LTD. OPENED IN LEADUP TO DEATH Plumbing

HVAC

A watchdog group has prompted an independent investigation on the domestic issues and police response that led to a second-degree murder charge of Christopher Jarvis in the death of his wife, Pamela Jarvis.

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

An advocacy group for victims of domestic violence is calling for action after the death of a Merritt woman.

Pamela Jarvis, 45, was found in her home by emergency medical services on Dec. 15, 2025 with significant injuries, later dying in hospital. Accused of second-degree murder is her husband, Christopher Jarvis.

“Another woman has been killed in British Columbia while governments continue to promote a public safety narrative that claims progress,” reads a statement from Battered Women’s Support Services (BWSS), who have prompted an investigation to be opened with the Independent Investigations Office (IIO) of BC into alleged intimate partner violence that took place prior to the death.

Merritt RCMP have provided the IIO office with information that their last contact with Jarvis occurred just several days before her death, with local police’s investigation having already occurred “over a period of time”.

There are two factors that the IIO considers at the beginning of each investigation: - If there has been an injury that meets the threshold of serious harm, as defined by the Police Act, or a death; and - If there is a connection between the serious harm/death and officer action or inaction.

If both conditions are met, the investigation will continue to examine all available evidence to determine what occurred. At the conclusion of the investigation, the chief civilian director will consider whether there are reasonable grounds to believe that there may have been an

• • • • • • • •

Heat Pump, Wall Mounted Mini Splits Air Conditioning Dual Fuel System/Hybrid System Air Ducts & Sheet Metal Commercial Refrigeration Walk-in Cooler & Freezer Commercial Ventilation Exhaust Fan

Gas Fitting-Gas Permit & Inspection • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Kitchen, Dishwasher, Garburator Shower, Bathtub, Faucet Drainage Water Pump Tankless Gas Fired/Electric Hot Water Tank Combi, Boiler, Floor Heating Leaking Detection Washing Machine Installation/ Replacement

Furnace Fireplace Roof Top Unit Make-up Air Unit

Whatever you need We’ve got it covered!

778-893-2222 The Nicola Valley Shelter and Support Society would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the following organizations. It is because of you that 2025 became a year of connection, community and hope.

Funding Sponsors

PHOTO/FACEBOOK

Pam Jarvis was killed on Dec. 16, 2025.

offence.

Marie MacDougall, executive director of BWSS, says that this form of intimate partner violence often follows documented patterns of escalating risk.

“This is not a contradiction, it is a choice to frame this form of violence in this way,” said MacDougall. “Women are being killed while governments point to indicators that do not measure their safety.”

Christopher Jarvis appeared briefly in Merritt court via video conference on Jan. 6, before being adjourned to Jan. 20.

“Pamela Jarvis’s death is not an anomaly,” said MacDougall. “It is part of a known and growing pattern of femicide in British Columbia.”

BC Housing Interior Health Canadian Red Cross PGNAETA- RHF United Way Province of BC Nlaka'pamux Health Services Teck HVC

Volunteer Support by Organization Merritt Baptist Church Motion Church Crossroads Community Church Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church Citizens on Patrol St. Michaels Anglican Church

Community Partners & Local Businesses The City of Merritt ASK Wellness Conayt Friendship Society First Nations Health Authority Merritt Bread Basket and Soup Bowl Society WorkBC Coldwater Indian Band The Merritt RCMP Detachment Merritt Fire Department

Boston Pizza Kekuli Cafe Mughal Gardens The Merritt Herald Hello Pharmacy Breathe Bikes 378 Skate Shop Nicola Valley Food Bank

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 5

A GROWING CITY Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz spoke with the Herald on infrastructure, development, and other issues facing Merritt in 2026. hjoshi@kentem.ca

What can the people of Merritt expect in 2026?

We should see more employment, which we need. And hopefully that brings some of the kids in, resolving the enrollment issues with the school.

We’re still courting many businesses down on the coast that can’t afford to be there anymore. So, one of my jobs is to call all the time to see if somebody is interested in moving.

So, that will be the focus of this Council for the next year. The idea is to continue to grow our city. If we don’t grow our city, then we become complacent, the growth stops, investment stops.

We don’t want to become a retirement city in the community. There’s nothing wrong with that to a certain degree if you have the the proper balance of retired people to those who are working and new people coming.

New blood is always needed in our community.

So, as a council, we’ll continue to push forward with that and bring people to the community. But we’ll also be very careful that we don’t go overboard and grow so quickly that our infrastructure can’t cover what we’re doing.

A classic example (of that) is Kelowna when they had their boom. You couldn’t move in Kelowna because the roads only have two lanes each way.

Now there are four, but at one point in time, it was

Merritt Mayor Mike Goetz hard just to get from one end of the city to the other.

So, you must have your infrastructure grow at the same rate that your city is.

You also must be mindful of the water and the power.

So, we’re being very careful that way that we don’t outgrow our city too quickly.

With such kind of development on the horizon, what are your plans for the housing and hospital infrastructure?

There’s a huge apartment going behind Snake Oil (Voght Street). At the City of Merritt, we have a housing development director. We also have a housing needs situation that we’re all well aware of.

We have 30 trailers that were brought in. We’re trying to get those sold so we can turn that into housing in the community.

We’re looking at attainable housing where we want people to be based on their pay where they live, not on

LOOKING FOR SECURE EMPLOYMENT?

the open market. We realize that we have to get our housing into affordability, so people will come here. Right now, our commercial land is the cheapest in probably BC or Canada.

Our development cost charges are very low as well. That’s why we have so many people coming here.

Housing prices are a lot cheaper here than it is just about anywhere else in BC, but that time is fading.

What are your plans to upgrade the hospital?

The hospital will continue to always be something that myself and the Council will always strive for. I have a director that I work with at Interior Health to see where we are, where the shortfalls are, where the weaknesses might be, and how we can shore them up.

I’ll be sending out a third bill in the New Year.

We do have doctors that have come to town; they are working on the nurse situation. I’m still pushing for a local hospital administrator to return this hospital back to an actual operating hospital as it was when I moved here in 1977.

We need to have the local flavour back in our hospitals. People will not bring a factory or something here and hire 100 people if they don’t have a hospital. This community is making sure this hospital is always open, and we can get some of our services back.

WorkBC provides funded Skills Training for jobs in demand if you’re unemployed or have unsustainable (casual, part time or seasonable) employment.

Construction Trades Equipment Operator Class 3 Driver Find out if you’re eligible.

Call us today!

250-378-5151 WorkBC Centre - Merritt tel: 250-378-5151 email: info-merrittt@workbc.ca

CANNABIS STORE UNITYCANNABIS.CA

OPEN

EVERYDAY 9 AM TO 10 PM

19+

Must be

HARIT JOSHI

#104 - 2101 Quilchena Avenue

250-378-0450

We Deliver

6 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA VALLEY

VIEWPOINT

ARTS COUNCIL ROUNDUP: HAPPY NEW YEAR! Rediscovered Treasures 2.0 - January 7-31 Join us for the first Art Show of 2026 - Rediscovered Treasures 2.0, at the Nicola Valley Arts Centre from January 7 - 31, 2026. This show will be a fundraiser/ silent auction for the Art Gallery. During the first show in early 2025 we were able to raise enough money to have new track lighting installed.

Step into a world where forgotten beauty finds new life. Rediscovered Treasures is more than an art show it’s a celebration of transformation, of seeing the extraordinary in what others may have overlooked.

Every piece in this collection has been generously donated, carrying with it a story, a past, and now, a chance for renewal.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

What speaks to you may surprise you. A frame that once hung in a quiet hallway could become the centerpiece of your living room. A sculpture that gathered dust can now spark conversation and admiration. This is your opportunity to embrace the unexpected. What’s old is new again.

attention is diverted. I am a magpie where learning crafts is concerned – one video, one workshop, and the next week my house will be further filled with the new ideas required, raw product and equipment!

Creative play - free drop-in art sessions Our free drop-in community art session in January will be on Tuesday, January 13th and Thursday, January 22, from 6:30 to 8 pm at the Arts Centre.

Bring a project you’re working on or try something new with our supplies - no registration or membership required.

PHOTO/NICOLA VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL

Drop-in art sessions are available throughout January at the Nicola Valley Arts Centre.

Creative process - Ruth Tolerton My name is Ruth Tolerton, and you will find my work in the NVCAC shop posted with a Sweetpea Creations label. Herbal teas all year round, and then other types of crafts as the seasons change and my

Donate your empties to the NVCAC PHOTO/NICOLA VALLEY ARTS COUNCIL

Ruth Tolerton’s Sweetpea Creations can be found at the NVCAC shop.

Did you know? You can donate your empties at the Return It Depot on

Clapperton Avenue to the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council! Thank you for your support, every dollar goes towards our mission of Connecting Community Through The Arts.

2090 GRANITE AVE., P.O. BOX 9, MERRITT, B.C. Phone: 250-378-4241 The Merritt Herald is a Canadian-owned, locally operated community newspaper, proudly owned by K’en T’em Limited Partnership — 100% Indigenous owned — and distributed every Thursday throughout the Nicola Valley.

Copyright subsists in all display advertising in this edition of the Merritt Herald. Permission to reproduce in any form must be obtained in writing from the publisher.

PUBLISHER Theresa Arnold publisher@ merrittherald.com

SALES REPRESENTATIVE/ OFFICE ADMINISTRATOR Michele Siddall admin@merrittherald.com

EDITOR Jake Courtepatte newsroom@ merrittherald.com

This Merritt Herald is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour.

If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact newsroom@merrittherald.com or call (250) 378-4241.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at www.mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 7

VIEWPOINT

The Merritt Herald welcomes your letters, on any subject, addressed to the editor. Letters may be edited for length, taste and clarity.

Please keep letters to 300 words or less.

Email letters to: newsroom@merrittherald.com.

OF THE WEEK DIXON: HEALTHY NEW YEARS QUESTION Are you happy with your property’s BC Assessment value?

RESOLUTIONS TO KEEP BONNIE DIXON Healthy Conversations Every January, we’re encouraged to set New Year’s resolutions - often lofty, sometimes overwhelming, and frequently forgotten by February.

What if this year, instead of aiming for perfection, you chose a handful of simple habits that truly support your health and can be sustained all year long?

Start by writing down just five realistic intentions. Mine are refreshingly doable: hydrate consistently throughout the day; walk for at least 15 minutes daily; stretch for 5 minutes every morning; mindfully add vegetables and fruit to meals each day; and meditate for 5 to 10 minutes. None of these require special equipment, a gym membership, or hours of extra

time, just intention and consistency.

The secret to keeping resolutions isn’t willpower; it’s simplicity. Small actions done daily create powerful results over time. For example, increasing water intake while decreasing soda and energy drink intake can dramatically improve energy levels, digestion, and sleep.

Adding movement - even gentle walking - all of which supports heart health, joint mobility, and mental well-being.

If quitting smoking or vaping is on your list, remember: every step toward reducing is a win.

Consider pairing that goal with support - such as an accountability partner, a coach, or a healthcare professional.

ART-TASTIC!

Accountability turns good intentions into follow-through.

Sleep is another cornerstone of health, often overlooked. Creating space for better sleep - by turning off screens earlier, establishing a calming bedtime routine, or prioritizing rest—can improve mood, focus, and immune function.

The new year is also a perfect time to check in with your healthcare team. Seeing your primary care provider for baseline measurements, such as blood pressure and lab tests, provides valuable insight into your current health. Don’t forget your dentist - oral health plays a surprising role in overall wellness.

As you step into the New Year, ask yourself: What resolutions do I want to keep going all year long?

Choose progress over perfection, kindness over criticism, and habits that truly nourish you.

Your future self will thank you.

Community members, teachers and students...

Submit your artwork to newsroom@merrittherald.com for a chance to be featured in print each week!

Submissions are printed on a first come, first serve basis.

MERRITT IS BRILLIANT FOR SOLAR

Have your say at merrittherald.com

LAST WEEK’S QUESTION OF THE WEEK

What area of town needs revitalization the most?

QUILCHENA AVE. SPIRIT SQUARE PARKS OTHER

55% 36 17% 11 12% 8 17% 11

AFromLOOK BACK the Herald archives JANUARY 4, 1989

GILLIS HOUSE TOPS $100,000 Donations continue to flood in for Gillis House, the extended care facility to be constructed this summer, and generous donations from individuals this past week has brought the total to more than $100,000 raised locally for the project.

In the past week, Nicola Valley General Hospital administrator Ted Kampa has received two individual contributions amounting to nearly $10,000.

A large donation was presented to Kampa on Thursday when long-time Merritt resident Bill Pooley and his wife Barb signed over a cheque for a 4-bed ward.

“The Pooleys are pioneers of this valley and they have always done so much for this community,” said Kampa.

Let the experts help you with rebate & funding applications

3YEAR0S

SERVING BC

Learn more by booking your no obligation quote today www.riversideenergy.ca sales@riversideenergy.ca • 250-578-0620

8 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

Recycling CURBSIDE

ALL RECYCLABLE MATERIALS MUST BE EMPTY & CLEANED/RINSED

PAPER

P R O D U C T S

CARDBOARD P R O D U C T S

DO NOT PUT THESE RECYLABLE MATERIALS IN YOUR CURBSIDE BIN

NO GLASS +

+

PAPER CUPS & PLATES

-

+

CARDBOARD BOXES CONTAINERS + CANDY BOXES

-

PAPER BAGS + CARDS WRAPPING PAPER

-

NEWSPAPERS + MAGAZINES

+

-

+

-

+

-

-

-

+

+

NO SOFT PLASTIC OR FLEXIBLE PACKAGING +

+

-

-

-

+

+

-

CLEAN PIZZA BOXES + MILK CARTONS

NO FOAM

METAL P R O D U C T S

+ -

+

-

+

PLASTIC PAC K AG I N G

MOULDED PAPER LIKE EGG CARTONS

+

* PHONE BOOKS ACCEPTED | NO HARD/SOFT COVERED BOOKS * REMOVE FOIL, GLITTER OR PLASTIC WINDOW FILM

-

HOUSEHOLD PAPER + ENVELOPES

-

SHREDDED PAPER (CONTAINED)

NO HAZARDOUS MATERIALS +

+

-

-

-

+

+

-

PLASTIC CONTAINERS + LIDS, CAPS & PUMPS

SPRAY CONTAINERS

* BUT NO HAZARDOUS MATERIALS LIKE PAINT

NO APPLIANCES OR ELECTRONICS

CANS & METAL LIDS + -

+

-

-

-

+

+

PLASTIC BOTTLES & JUGS TUBS (LESS THAN 25L)

PLASTIC GARDEN POTS & SEEDING TRAYS

CLEANED PLASTIC FOOD CONTAINERS

* DURABLE PACKAGING ONLY. NO FLEXIBLE PACKAGING OR SOFT OVERWRAP. * SEPARATE PLASTICS FROM OTHER RECYCLABLES LIKE CARDBOARD.

ATTACH THIS SHEET TO YOUR KITCHEN BIN

FOIL CONTAINERS

TIN CONTAINERS

* NO POTS, PANS, HANGERS OR SCRAP METAL * NO FOIL BAGS, WRAPPERS, OR STAND-UP POUCHES

NO BOOKS (HARD OR SOFT) BRING THESE ITEMS TO COMMUNITY RECYCLING DEPOTS LIKE THE LOWERNICOLA ECO-DEPOT

4MERRITT.CA/RECYCLING

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 9

SIX MONTHS 4-H CLUB LOOKING FOR MEMBERS FOR REPEAT OFFENDER

FRIENDS & Neighbours

Dwight Chillihitzia’s rap sheet includes assault, harrassment, threats and an indecent act.

TIM PETRUK Castanet

A Merritt-area man with a severe alcohol addiction has been ordered to spend six months in prison for a string of violent and frightening incidents that threatened “every sector of the community.”

Dwight Chillihitzia, 35, was sentenced in Kamloops provincial court after pleading guilty to eight charges covering a 2.5-year window between March of 2023 and October of this year.

Among the offences were an unprovoked

assault, criminal harassment, threats, an indecent act, causing disturbances and multiple breaches of court orders.

Chillihitzia targeted family members, police, a probation worker, shelter residents and strangers in the community.

In one case, a drunk Chillihitzia hurled a number of large rocks at the back of the head of his cousin’s husband, and in another he stormed into an A&W, jumped on top of a table and started yelling, JAKE COURTEPATTE THIS BEHAVIOUR: continued on page 10

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The Grasslands 4-H Club is bringing its love for animals and agriculture into 2026, with regular meetings resuming on Jan. 13 at the Quilchena clubhouse.

Anyone with a child between 9-19 as of Dec. 31, 2025 who may be interested in raising livestock are welcome to join. Members raise beef, sheep, and goat projects, while learning animal husbandry, showmanship, judging, grooming, record-keeping and public speaking skills.

Anyone interested is asked to reach out to Erica Martindale at 250-378-0242.

“Friendly, professional service, from people who care.”

Serving the community for over 50 years.

√ Pharmacy Service √ Medication Consults & Reviews √ Compliance Packaging √ Ostomy & Incontinence Supplies √ Home Health Care

√ Giftware & Souvenirs √ Travel Vaccinations √ Mobility Aids & Compression Therapy √ Asthma & Diabetic Supplies

FREE Delivery for Seniors & Those With Restricted Mobility

2037 Quilchena Avenue, Merritt, BC

250-378-2155

10 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

‘THIS BEHAVIOUR HAS GOT TO STOP’

SIX MONTHS: continued from page 9 clearing the restaurant out.

Two of his offences involved wives of Merritt RCMP officers.

In August of 2023, Chillihitzia threatened to rape and kill his probation officer, who he knew to be married to a Merritt Mountie. He conveyed the threat through another RCMP constable, who Chillihitzia mistakenly believed was the husband of the victim.

On Sept. 27, 2025, he menaced the wife of a Merritt RCMP officer in the parking lot outside Nicola Valley Memorial Arena.

Court heard the woman was getting her young child out of a car seat when Chillihitzia showed up and stood very close to her, refusing to move.

The complainant was described as “hyperventilating and extremely upset” when reporting the incident to police.

It is not clear whether Chillihitzia knew she was married to a Mountie.

“This behaviour

has got to stop,” Kamloops provincial court Judge Michelle Stanford said in court.

“Every sector of the community is at risk — partners, officers, community corrections, his own family members and members of the public, whether in restaurants or standing on the street or in parking lots.”

Stanford said the impact on the public in Merritt

“Every sector of the community is at risk.”

— Judge Michelle Stanford has been “significant and long-lasting.”

Chillihitzia is Indigenous and has been diagnosed as having severe alcohol use disorder. He has completed live-in treatment multiple times, only to relapse after returning home.

He was described in court as generally good-natured, but that changes when he’s been drinking. He’s sobered up behind bars since his arrest in October, and he told court he intends to keep it that way.

He told court he has been “scared straight” by his time in jail, and he outlined a plan to move through a series of live-in treatment programs away from Merritt.

“This is an opportunity to continue on the path that you’ve already started on while you’ve been in custody,” Stanford said.

“But the community needs a break from your alcohol-fuelled behaviour while you do that work.”

Stanford sentenced Chillihitzia to six months in prison — his first significant jail sentence.

He has about three months remaining after being given credit for time served.

When he gets out, Chillihitzia will spend two years on probation with conditions requiring he stay away from a long

list of victims, abstain from drugs and alcohol and attend mandatory counselling for

substance use and anger management.

He will also be required to attend psychiatric

treatment as directed and prohibited from possessing weapons.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Tuesday January 27th Interior Savings Community Room 6pm Everyone Welcome

Join us for our 2026 Soccer Season. We are looking for new members to volunteer, various positions include: Board of Directors, Head & Assistant Coaches, Division Reps, Referees, and Registrar.

For more information email us: info@merrittyouthsoccer.com https://www.facebook.com/MerrittYouthSoccer http://merrittyouthsoccer.com/

Notice of Intent to Treat The Ministry of Forests, Thompson Okanagan Region, is planning to aerially treat up to 40,000 hectares of Douglas-fir forest to reduce damage caused by the western spruce budworm (Choristoneura occidentalis).

The biological insecticide Foray 48B (Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki) will be applied by rotarywing aircraft once on each site at 2.4 litres/ha from approximately June 5 to July 5, 2026, depending on insect development and local weather conditions.

The proposed treatment sites are located within the Kamloops, Merritt, and Lillooet Timber Supply Areas (TSA).

Merritt TSA proposed treatment sites:

Kamloops TSA proposed treatment sites:

Lillooet TSA proposed treatment sites:

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • •

• Botanie Valley • Duffy Lake corridor • Van Horlick Creek

Kentucky South Loon Lake North Loon Lake South Missezula Lake Murphy Lake North Nicola Lake Otter Lake West Thynne Mountain

Duffy-Kamloops Lake Gump Lake Hardy Hill Inks Lake Sabiston Creek Surrey Lake

All sites proposed for treatment are covered by the Southern Interior Area Forest Health Program Pest Management Plan #2022-2027 confirmation #402-0685-22-27.

The Pest Management Plan and maps of proposed treatment areas may be viewed at: www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/forestry/managing-our-forest-resources/foresthealth/news or in-person, at: Ministry of Forests, Thompson Okanagan Region, Forest Health, 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops, B.C., V2C 2T3. Contact: Lorraine Maclauchlan, Lorraine.maclauchlan@gov.bc.ca Anyone wishing to contribute information about the proposed treatment sites may send comments by mail to the address above until April 3, 2026.

A Tribute to Lives Remembered

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A11

In honouring the legacy of our community, this special feature reflects on the lives, stories, and memories of those we lost in 2025.

Through these pages, we pay tribute to cherished members of our community, preserving their impact and memory for future generations.

2025 Legacies of

SPECIAL 20-PAGE PULL-OUT FEATURE: PAGE 11-30

A12 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com Donations of $20 or more are eligible for a tax receipt.

Building a healthier tomorrow in honour of the lives that shaped our today.

PLEASE SCAN TO DONATE

Nicola Valley Health Care ENDOWMENT FOUNDATION

250-315-1832 • PO Box 1423, Merritt BC V1K 1B8

Visit our website www.nvhcef.com to find out how we work to enhance Health Care in the Nicola Valley.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all our fundraising efforts.

Raymond Preston Finlay September 24, 1933 December 8, 2024 It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Raymond Preston Finlay on December 8, 2024 with his loving family by his side.

Ray is survived by his loving wife Margaret of 69 years, his daughter LaVerne (Dan) McCuaig of Kamloops, BC, son Delbert (Jean) Finlay of Logan Lake, BC. Also survived by his grandchildren Christine, Nicholas (Amanda), Mitchell and Lance (Kathryn) and his great grandchildren Josephine, Maximus, Gabriella and Ayla. Ray was predeased by his son William Earl in 1977 and his son Mathew in 1964.

Ray was born on a farm near Portage La Prairie, Manitoba, the second oldest of 11 children. He left the farm at the age of 14 to make his own way in the world. Ray went to work in Virden, Manitoba and after several years met the love of his life, Margaret Black. Ray and Margaret married in 1955 and for several years moved around between BC and Manitoba working in different occupations. In 1966 Ray and Marg brought their young family to Merritt BC in the Nicola Valley and Ray went to work as a miner. He worked underground at Craigmont mine until the mid 70’s then worked at various mines in the Highland Valley until his retirement in 1997.

Ray spent several years coaching his sons in minor hockey in Merritt and his teams won several tournaments over several seasons.

Ray and Margaret spent many summers travelling back to the Prairies in their motorhome to visit family and friends.

Ray was especially proud of his home and yard taking great pride when the neighbors would comment on how immaculate his yard looked. Ray was known as “The King of Castillou” as he spent ours keeping the sidewalks and roadways cleared of debris for his neighbors. Ray loved his garden and loved to spend time nurturing it every year. He believed in the term “don’t fence me in” and never had fences in the front or back of his property. The drawback over the years was the local deer population feeding off his pride and joy.

Ray loved to play the guitar. Whether “jamming” at family get-togethers, playing with his band at the Seniors Center in Merritt or strumming by himself at home, he always enjoyed playing.

He enjoyed hunting, fishing, golf (and unlimited mulligans) and especially loved playing pool at his home or at his sons with his children, grandchildren and friends. Ray was very competitive and wouldn’t let you stop playing until he won the rubber match. He loved playing crib and Wii Golf.

Ray was fortunate and blessed to live in his home until a short period before his passing.

Ray’s family are very grateful for the care Ray received at the Nicola Valley Hospital and wonderful staff there, for the years of care he received from his family physician Dr. McLeod of Merritt, BC and for the care he received from Dr. Shawna Suchiya and the staff at Ponderosa Lodge, where he lived for his last few weeks before passing.

A Celebration of Ray’s life will be held in the Spring of 2025 at his sons property in Logan Lake, BC.

Megan Fulcher October 18, 1983 January 13, 2025 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Megan Fulcher after a courageous journey.

We will always remember Megan’s beautiful smile that could light up a room; an enormous heart serving those around her; and a caring spirit touching the lives of everyone she encountered. Megan brought joy, encouragement, happiness, and laughter wherever she went. Through life’s challenges she continued to find reasons to celebrate the small moments which were often the big moments. As in Micah 6:8, she was fair and just, had compassion and empathy, and enjoyed life while trusting that God walked with her in her valleys, challenges, and celebrations.

Mourning her loss are her parents Wayne and Carol Fulcher, sister Ashley Fulcher, her pippi-cat, as well as many family and friends.

Megan will forever be in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family will accept a colourful pair of children’s socks to donate to Impact Ministries; a ministry close to Megan’s heart.

Celebration of life will be held at the Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church, Monday January 20th, at 1pm. All are welcome.

Hayden Daniel Hanna May 16, 2023 December 9, 2024

It is with heavy hearts and immense sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our son, Hayden Daniel Hanna. Hayden was the light of our lives; our precious baby boy. He was a smart, loving, affectionate and goofy little boy with a big personality. He was vibrant and always on the go; our little ball of energy. Hayden loved to dance, clean and play. He loved books, going for walks outside and pretending to cook. You could always find him with a bowl and spoon in his hand. Hayden loved to hug, kiss and climb all over his puppy, Emma. He was the happiest baby, always full of smiles and hugs. He could light up any room. Hayden was about to become the best big brother.

We will miss everything about him. Hayden always knew how to put a smile on anyone’s face. His laughter echoed through our home, a melody of happiness that will forever resonate in our memories. Although there is a massive void in our lives, Hayden will always be forever in our hearts. Our sweet child, you touched more hearts in your brief time than many do in a lifetime.

Hayden is survived by his loving parents Nikki and Derek Hanna, his Gramma Barb Flottorp, his grandparents Reid and Colleen Hanna, his Uncles Andrew Hanna and Ryan Flottorp, his Auntie Allie Pascuzzo and his cousin Daniel Flottorp.

Hayden was also dearly loved by our extended family and friends. We thank all of those who were a part of Hayden’s life and loved him profoundly.

Robert (Bob) Joseph Van Hoof August 8, 1941 – Jan 11, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Robert (Bob) Joseph Van Hoof on January 11, 2025 with his family by his side.

Bob is survived by Shirley his loving wife of 63 years, his daughters Brenda (Michael) Harkies of Coldstream B.C., Shelly Ann (Trevor) Van Hoof of Port Coquitlam B.C., Tracy (Mike) Moonie of Kamloops B.C. and Diane Van Hoof of Lower Nicola B.C. He is also survived by his grandchildren Danielle (Jon), Christopher, Devon (Meagan), Matthew and his great grandchildren Elizabeth, Brinley, Adalynn and Remy.

Bob is also survived by his brother Ray Van Hoof of Salmon Arm B.C. and his sisters Janet Munz of North Vancouver B.C., Mary (Dave) Brooke of Burnaby B.C. and numerous extended families.

Bob was a special surrogate Grandpa to Jordyn and Patrick who are as close as any other family member.

Bob was born in Minnow Lake Ontario the second oldest of 4 children. Bob moved west and eventually settled in Lower Nicola. He set up his company RJ Van Hoof Trucking Ltd and operated it until he retired in 2001.

Bob was fortunate to live in his home until a short time before his passing.

Bobs family is very grateful for the care he received in Royal Inland Hospital where he spent the last several weeks before passing.

“Bill” William Edouard Allen

March 30, 1942 January 26, 2025

Bill passed away peacefully with family by his side at the Merritt Hospice “Gillis House” on Sunday, January 26, 2025.

Loving father of Tammy Allen, granddaughter, Alysha and great grandchildren, Gracie, Tyson & Julius; cherished brother of John Allen, Marie Alopaeus, Flore Allen and Thelma Jenkins and his many nephews and nieces.

Bill is predeceased by his parents William Edward and Regina Allen, his sister Rachel Murphy, and his brothers, DenisAllen and William Alexander Allen.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation has already taken place. Internment will be held at a later date in Ontario at Bill’s place of birth.

Condolences may be sent to his daughter via the following email address allen.taa3@gmail.com.

Honouring

the strong roots that shaped our community.

Nicola Chainsaw: 2602 Nicola Ave • 250-378-2234

Nicola Motorsports: 2626 Nicola Ave • 250-378-2442

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A13

Honouring the lives that brought sweetness and brightness to our community. ... Carrie Ware & Company

Carrie Ware, BSc, CPA, CA

2032 Quilchena Avenue, P.O. Box 700, Merritt, BC V1K 1B8 Tel: (250) 378-2215 • reception@carrieware.ca

Douglas George Mikalishen October 1, 1950 - January 16, 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Doug Mikalishen on January 16, 2025.

Doug was an electrician by trade, working in various locations across B.C. Before long, he joined his wife Donna in her business, Thomson Lawn Care (TLC), where together they designed stunning ponds and landscapes throughout the Nicola Valley. Their dedication and creativity earned them multiple Business of the Year awards. He had a passion for classic vehicles and enjoyed restoring them to their former glory.

For the past 34 years, Doug and Donna brought joy to the community by creating an outdoor rink in their yard, a place where many gathered to skate and make cherished memories.

Doug is lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna; his children, Zowey and Nathan; grandchildren, Jaxon, Madison, Colten, and Chloe; and great-granddaughter, Phoebe. He is also survived by his siblings Kay, Ev, Bev, Gerry, Norm, and Murray.

He was predeceased by his parents, Steve and Mary; his son, Kory; his sister, Bobbie; and his nephew, Billy.

Thank you all for your love and support for my beloved husband, Douglas George Mikalishen.

Phillip “Gordon” Donald Felts September 3, 1953 January 29, 2025

Phillip “Gordon” Donald Felts was born on September 3, 1953, in Bonnyville, Alberta, to Donald (deceased) and Cecile Felts of Lower Nicola, BC. He was the second eldest in the Felts family and a cherished brother to Dennis (Clare), Darlene (Ken), Tammy, and Trevor (Teresa). To many nieces and nephews, he was affectionately known as Uncle Gordie.

Gordon was a devoted husband to Kim (Hodgson) for 37 years, a proud father to Chad (Andrea), Travis (Julie), and

Wesley (Emma), and a loving grandfather to Jace, Castin, and his beloved Thatcher.

On January 29, 2025, Gordon passed away in Kelowna, BC, after bravely facing health challenges for many years.

Those who knew him will remember his incredible strength and resilience. Once a spirited fighter in his younger days, he carried that same determination through every challenge life presented, including his battle with illness.

Gordon had a long and fulfilling career in mining and construction, working across Canada and overseas. After settling in Smithers, he established his Gordie & Sons landscaping and maintenance business, where his hardworking nature and attention to detail shone through.

An avid outdoorsman, Gordon found joy in fishing, hunting, and cooking. He loved nothing more than being out on the water in his boat, sharing his knowledge and passions with his family and friends. Last summer at our Felts Family Reunion he proudly took the family fishing on Beaver Lake—a memory that will be cherished forever.

Gordon was also proud of his association with the Smithers Steelheads Hockey Club, where his presence and contributions left a lasting impact. He proudly drove the team bus known as The Fish Tank for the local hockey teams and seniors groups.

Above all, Gordon was a kind, thoughtful, and deeply respected family man and friend. He carried a quiet grace about him—strong yet gentle, always willing to lend a hand to his community, family, and friends. He was a true gentle giant with a heart of gold.

His family and many friends are deeply saddened by his passing but take comfort in knowing he is now at peace, reunited with his dad and sister, Darlene. His presence in our lives will be greatly missed, but his spirit will live on in the countless memories shared by those who loved him.

Norma Estelle Cannon 30 October 1945 - 26 January 2025

Mrs. Norma Estelle Cannon (nee Harrison) passed away on 26 January 2025, aged 79, after a 2 month battle with metastatic pancreatic cancer. She was surrounded by family who now greatly mourn her loss. She is survived by her son, Brian Corey Cannon (Kendall Telfer), step-grandchildren

Community Futures Nicola Valley

Devon Telfer-Martin and Danika Telfer-Martin; sisters Pauline Haits and Maureen (Robert) Sanderson; Brother Philip (Helen) Harrison; sisters-in-law Gail (Ken) Burfoot and Brenda (Martin) Cannon Munster; dozens of nieces and nephews as well as many other friends and relatives, near and far. She is predeceased by her husband Brian Thomas Cannon; their parents D’Arcy and Estella Harrison and Harry and Iris Cannon; her sister Sandra Berg; and brother-in-law Loren Berg. A celebration of her life, officiated by Pastor Matthew Westergard, will be held and Crossroads Community Church Saturday 22 February 2025 at 1PM. Interment to follow on or about 1 May 2025 at the Nanaimo Municipal Cemetery.

Norma was born and raised in Nanaimo BC, 30 October, 1945. She attended Malaspina College earning a degree in Business Administration. Being top of her class, she won a position working for the famous Pirate Mayor of Nanaimo, Frank Key. In 1969, she married Brian Cannon, RCAF, and moved with him to West Germany, part of Canada’s NATO commitment during the Cold War. Their son, Corey, was born in 1970. During her time in Germany, Norma learned German, allowing herself to take in the local culture as well as converse with the new friends found around her. As a family, they toured most of Western Europe. They returned to Canada in 1974 to postings in Summerside PEI (1974-1977) Halifax NS (1977-1978) and Greenwood NS (1978-1984). Brian retired from the RCAF after more than 20 years of service, taking a job at NDHQ in Ottawa ON. During her decade in Ottawa, she learned her third language, French, and achieved degrees and designations in Human Resources, again top of her classes; elevating herself out of business admin roles and into management. She achieved the number 2 position in the Human Resources Department at the City of Gloucester. In the mid-90’s, with Brian looking to retire after over 30 years of government service, Norma began looking for work in British Columbia, where she and Brian hoped to spend the rest of their lives. Norma took a position as Director of Human Resources for a small 3 branch Credit Union in Merritt BC. Over the next 10 years, the Credit Union would grow and merge it’s way to become Interior Savings Credit Union, one of the larger Credit Unions in British Columbia. Norma’s responsibility grew with the company eventually becoming Vice President Human Resources. Even after retirement from ISCU in the mid-2000’s, she continued to work in the HR field, forming her own company and offering her skills to smaller businesses on a free-lance basis. She continued to work until her diagnosis in November 2024.

Norma will be remembered as a singular woman. Both ambitious and kind. Tough, yet highly empathetic. Her loss, to those of us who knew and loved her, is devastating.

Gary Brock McConnell September 1, 1934 -February 9, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Gary Brock McConnell, who left us peacefully on February 9, 2025, at the age of 90.

Born on September 1, 1934, Gary lived a full and fruitful life, marked by dedication, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his family. Throughout his years, he contributed his talents and work ethic to a variety of industries, including forestry, construction, and pipelines. Through Gary’s labour’s he built, not only the foundations of many projects, but instilled in his family the strong values of hard work, integrity, and perseverance.

Gary’s proudest accomplishment was the family he cherished. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marion Rose, with whom he shared many years of love, laughter, and partnership. Together, they raised four wonderful children who carry forward his legacy. His life was further blessed with 19 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren, each a testament to the enduring impact of his love and guidance.

Beyond his strength and wisdom, Gary will be fondly remembered for his quick wit and dry humor. Whether it was a well-timed joke, a clever remark, or a playful tease, he had a knack for making people laugh—sometimes when they least expected it. His humor was never flashy, but those who knew him best knew to listen closely because his one-liners were pure gold.

Gary will be remembered for his quiet strength, his stories of days gone by, and his deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors or gathered with family around the dinner table—often sneaking in a joke between bites—he found joy in every moment.

Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and celebrate the life of a man who touched so many hearts. Donations may be sent to the Nicola Valley Healthcare Auxiliary directed to the Merritt Hospital in Lieu of flowers.

Though Gary has left this world, his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten—especially every time someone delivers a perfectly timed joke in his honor.

With heartfelt remembrance from the team at Community Futures Nicola Valley.

A14 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

TAKE A MOMENT TO REFLECT on our rich history and the lives that have shaped our journey.

Their legacy is woven into the fabric of who we are today.

250-378-2155 2037 Quilchena Ave.

Grand children Shamus (Elaine), Travis (Melissa), Gina

He lived a life defined by curiosity, hard work, and

Kim, Ace, Dee, Brenda, Lynn and Lori.

A wonderful Catholic and traditional service was held on February 7th, 2025, at the Quilchena Church. The Stewart family are grateful and thankful for the support from;Dr. King, ER team, Dr. Ross, family doctor, Father Vern, Rene Lamothe, Upper Nicola Health and the Upper Nicola Elders, Fred Holmes for his leadership role in assisting the family, McCauley, Charters and Holmes families, The traditional support, the hand drummers and the Merritt Funeral Chapel for doing the thing they do best.

He leaves behind a lasting legacy, carried on by his beloved wife of 72 years, Molly, his children Lynn (Michael) and Lorne (Karen), as well as his grandchildren Tiffanee (Brad), Lee (Ashley), Laine (Marissa), Brett (Pan), Drew (Amanda), Courtney (Kyle), Kendra (Scott), and Taylor (Justin). He is also lovingly remembered by many great-grandchildren and his sisters Lorena Moore and Elaine Rowell..

Though the sun may have set for Leonard, the countless memories and love he shared will continue to shine, keeping the lives of those who knew him a little Sonny.

The family has chosen not to hold a memorial at this time.

Tyrell, Kyle, Miles Briggs, Skylar and Shailyn Joe, determination. Whether mastering a new skill or sharing his Michele Mary Egan, Michael Sturgeon/Spence (Marsha Spence/Sturgeon) and wisdom, he approached every challenge with humor and Stewart. resilience, leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him.

Francine Shaw Myron Great grand children: Ben Egan, Aiden Briggs, William Len was predeceased by his parents, Alec and Alma Paré, Chelanne and Tyson Adams. his siblings Lawrence, Raymond, and Margariette, and his (nee Gaulin) Nelson, Nephews and Nieces: Davis, Rob Jr, Melissa, Joyce, Barb, youngest son, Kevin.

May 4, 1956 January 22, 2025

It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Michele Mary Francine Shaw (nee Gaulin) on January 22, 2025 in Merritt, B.C. Michele will be lovingly remembered by her two children, Christopher and Victoria. Michele was predeceased by her beloved husband Rick Shaw (July 27/22) and by her mother Rose Gaulin and brother John.

Michele had 3 grandchildren, Oliver, Evelyn and newborn Shiloh. Her brother Richard and sister Diane. Niece Stephanie and her children: Tony, Katie, Sophie, Jamie and Bruce.

Nephew Jeremey and daughter Harmony.

She will be missed by her many friends and customers that she surrounded herself with throughout her life. She was a woman of many talents and part of many celebrations in Merritt through her years of event planning, party decorating and catering. Most well known for her decorated cakes and delicious baked goods.

Eugenia C. Stewart

Robert William Fyall June 26, 1932 - February 2, 2025

After a very short illness, Dad is now together with Mom. He leaves to mourn his sons, Brian ( Alice ) and Wayne, and daughter Diane ( Keith ) Grandchildren James and Susan (Ryan), Shade, Cody, Taylor and Brandon, Brady (Kelly) and Skylar (Kellyn ) Great grandchildren Samantha, Jaicob, Ava, Riley and Layla.

September 24, 1941February 3, 2025

Age of 83 from Douglas Lake Indian reserve, Gina passed away Feb. 3rd at the Nicola Valley General Hospital. With an incredible ER team working on her Gina decided she wasn’t going to fight no more, at 4:55 pm she left us.

Gina joins her husband Robert P. Stewart in the spirit world. Gina walked a quiet spiritual life, her jokes, baking’s and smiles will be missed, Gina made sure everyone in her presence was taken care of.

Gina lovingly left her only sister Verna Moses.

Her children, Alvin Stewart (Cathy Stewart), Floraine Stewart (Dave Egan), Midge Stewart, Wanda Briggs (Steve Briggs), Janice Joe (Greig Joe) and Aaron Stewart (Katherine Baptise)

Joseph “Len” Leonard Alphonse Paré January 25, 1931February 23, 2025

Leonard Paré passed away peacefully in his cherished home on February 23, 2025.

A true jack of all trades, Len wore many hats throughout his life—heavy-duty machine operator, well witcher, hockey coach, musician, and master tinkerer. However, his most treasured role was that of a devoted family man.

@ MERRITT Y R T S TI N E D “W

H ER

TION LAXA E RE

MEETS CARE”

www.dentistryatmerritt.ca

2731 Forksdale Avenue,

Call

250-378-4888

Caroline Mae Taylor October 26, 1939 February 22, 2025 It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Caroline Mae Taylor (Holt). She is survived by her son Ward (Tina) Taylor, Merritt, and daughter Jan (Ian Mackenzie) Taylor. She will also be fondly remembered by her grandchildren Krystin (Ryan) Tourand Merritt, Shelby (Shelby Naylor) Taylor Penticton, Kayla Taylor, Ariel Taylor and great grandchildren Hudson and Hazel Tourand. As well as her brother Robert Holt.

Caroline (Carol) graduated from Kam High in 1957 and senior matriculation in 1958. Where she played center for the Red Angles’ Basketball team for 5 years. Carol went on to nursing school and graduated from St. Paul’s Hospital School of Nursing in 1961, retiring as the Merritt public Health Nurse in 1997.

More recently, Carol enjoyed her friends and views at Riverbend Seniors Community in Kamloops

Dennis Crawford March 30, 1967 - March 3, 2025

It’s with great sadness we announce the passing of Dennis “The Menace” Lee Crawford on March 3rd, 2025. Dennis leaves behind his wife Allison and his three children Taylor, Danica and Ronnie. He is predeceased by his father Clarence, mother Audrey, brother Lester, and sister Terry. He is survived by his sister Bonnie and many nieces and nephews.

Dennis has many friends from his many adventures, including his time spent in Mexico, summers riding around in the Jeep or on a dirtbike in his youth, and spending time with his dog Milo. Dennis was truly one of a kind. He lived his life to the fullest and made sure everyone around him knew it. Throughout the years, Dennis has been known for his individuality and unwavering confidence in not only in his beliefs but in himself.

No formal services will be held because, frankly, Dennis never liked following the crowd. Instead, raise a glass, share a story and – most importantly – keep things interesting. The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life at a later date.

Gerald Ian Ingleby May 6, 1934 - January 30, 2025

Gerald Ian Ingleby of Penticton, B.C. passed away peacefully on January 30th., 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

He was born in Merritt, B.C. on May 6, 1934. Gerry was the beloved husband of Marlene for 65 years. He was a loving parent to Jerri and Art, and a cherished grandparent to Megan and Courtney and a great-grandparent to Myles. Born and raised in Merritt, BC, Gerry spent his childhood skating on Nicola Lake and hunting in the surrounding areas. He began working young at his father’s garage, Ingleby Motors, which he later took over. It became a fixture in Merritt for over 50 years. His commitment to the community was evident through

In honour of those who have gone before us, but never forgotten in our hearts.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A15

Honouring the journey of lives well-lived and the memories made along the way.

2049 Nicola Avenue, Merritt 1-250-378-9255 1-888-378-9255

www.murraygmmerritt.com his long-term membership with the Rotary Club, where he contributed meaningfully to local efforts. Later moving to Penticton, Gerry embraced new ventures, eventually running a dry-cleaning store for over 20 years until his retirement at 85. Known for his hard work, kindness, and storytelling, Gerry was a longtime Mason and Shriner, dedicated to raising funds for Shriners Hospital. His greatest joy was his 65-year marriage to Marlene, showcasing a love that was quiet yet profound. Gerry’s life was a testament to anonymous kindness, quiet love, and a laughter-filled story that seemed as fresh as yesterday. Gerry is survived by his loving wife, Marlene; his daughter, Jerri, and her daughters, Megan and Courtney; and his great-grandson, Myles. He is also survived by his son, Art (Monica). Gerry was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur and Edith Ingleby; and his brother, Randall Ingleby. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Shriners Hospitals for Children Canada;1003 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, Quebec H4A 0A9 No service will be held. Please share a laugh when remembering him, as it would make him smile.

Marguerite Marie Stewart June 30, 1938 – March 13, 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Marguerite Marie Stewart (Houde) aged 86, announce her passing in Merritt BC on March 13th, 2025.

Marguerite was predeceased by her husband Charles Leslie.

She is survived by her loving children: Dawn (Jerry), Charles (Tracy), Anne (Rick), Yvette (Kevin), Cora (Dave) and Rose; her grandchildren: Hannah, Douglas, Victoria, James, Bailey and Alexander; her sister, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Thank you to all the staff at Gillis House.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.

Forever in our hearts, we will miss you, Mom. Online condolences and memories can be shared at www.

MerrittFuneralChapel.com

Michiko Taki October 21, 1934 ~ September 29, 2022

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother Michiko Taki.

She passed away peacefully on September 29, 2022 in Kamloops BC. It has taken over 2 years to write about her departure because the loss has been hard to accept.

Michiko was small in stature but her presence was undeniable. She was a kind, gentle soul who spoke with great wisdom and compassion. She was very private. She wasn’t a complicated or needy person. She enjoyed her simple life.

Michiko loved her husband Art. They were inseparable.

They were the very best of friends. They could talk together for hours or just sit quietly and watch tv. Once dad passed, it was only a few months before she would join him.

Their ashes are buried together in Merritt where they lived for over 65 years. Together again.

By all accounts, mom and dad lived a long and beautiful life. Still, it is hard to let go. We will miss our mom’s greeting smile and casual hand wave. We will always cherish the final months we had together.

Michiko leaves behind the following family members: sons Richard (Jane), Frank (Joyce), Roy (Monika) and grandchildren Christopher (Cynthia), Stephen, Kevin, Sidney and great granddaughter Abigail.

Love you mom

Elaine Ohata October 21, 1939 - March 17, 2025

Elaine passed away in Kamloops on March 17, 2025, at the age of 85.

Elaine had a strong work ethic, and started out by helping in the bakery business with her family in Chilliwack, Hope and Merritt’s Smitty’s bakery. Elaine graduated from Merritt Secondary School. After graduation she started working at the

courthouse. She continued her interest in the court system and became a Court Registrar. Elaine’s other position was Justice of the Peace.

Elaine spent many days in her flower gardens. She loved sports. Baseball was her early passion, and this is where she met her husband, Mickey. She was a great hockey mom and volunteered at the figure skating carnivals. Elaine enjoyed both recreational and competitive curling. Her competitive team represented our zone in the BC provincial play downs. Elaine was a member of the Royal Purple club for several years.

Most people remember Elaine for her kindness and generosity, especially with food. She loved to cook and people who visited loved to eat; it was a good combination.

Elaine loved all children, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Most of all, Elaine loved Mickey and was married to him for 53 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Tammy (Steven); her son, Mike (Jenny); and grandchildren: Darcy (Jessi), Stephanie, Justin (Meganne). She also leaves behind her beloved greatgrandchildren, Neasha, Faith, Lane, Zariah, and Reina.

She is predeceased by her mother, Gladys; her father, Les (Smitty); her brother, Ron; and her husband, Mickey.

By request, there will be no service. There will be a family gathering at the lake later this year.

Special thanks to Elaine’s home care aides, adult day care, Gillis House, and the staff at Kamloops Seniors Village.

Elaine’s favourite saying was “Life is like a mirror reflecting what you do, if you smile at it, it will smile right back at you.”

Should friends desire, donations to be made to the Children’s Hospital foundation and/ or Variety of Hearts Telethon.

John “Jack” Francis Hoggard March 4, 1943 ~ April 6, 2025

We are heartbroken to share the news of the passing of Jack Francis Hoggard, who died peacefully on April 6th, 2025, at the age of 82. Jack was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His warmth, humility, and steadfast presence touched everyone who knew him, and he will be deeply missed.

Honouring the Foundations of the Past, Building Respect for the Future.

2975 Mamit Lake Road, Merritt BC • 250-378-4524

Born in Vancouver, BC, on March 4th, 1943, Jack was raised on Sea Island in Richmond, where his family operated a dairy and potato farm. Farming was in Jack’s blood, it shaped who he was and how he lived. In 1954, when Jack was 11, the family relocated from their farm on Sea Island to East Delta to make way for the expansion of Vancouver International Airport. Years later, Jack would go on to inherit the East Delta farm, continuing the family tradition and eventually raising his own family on the land.

Spending decades building a life rooted in hard work, care for the land, and quiet generosity. Jack was known for his deep love of dairy and potato farming, love for animals, unwavering work ethic, and easygoing spirit, becoming a familiar and respected figure in both the East Delta and Merritt communities. Jack also had a passion for horse racing, owning several racehorses over the years and spending many days at the Hastings Racetrack. Even after selling the farm and moving to Merritt, he never stopped doing what he loved. Continuing to farm well into his later years, remaining active in the Merritt, Ashcroft, and Cache Creek areas, until his illness in late 2024.

Jack was well known as a kind-natured, humble man who stayed connected to his roots, his friends, and his family.

Calling his buddies just to “catch up,” greeting everyone with his famous words: “How’s she going?” Jack was always positive, never complained and never wanted a “fuss.” He adored his family and was always there when needed.

Jack is predeceased by his parents, Clarence and Agnes, older sister Marion and brother-in-law Eric. He is survived by his wife of 24 years, MaryAnn; his children, Jack Jr. (Diana), Kimberlea (Andrew), Ed (Sarah); and his stepchildren, Sandra (Jag), Kirk (Chelsea), and Jordan. He was a proud grandfather to Nicholas (Fiona), Brennan, Chanelle, Waylon, Heather, Jenna (Kira), Jocelyn, and Raine, and a caring step-grandfather to Aj (Lauren), Liam, Priya, and Sunil. Jack also leaves behind his dear sisters Phyllis (Orvel), Claire, Jean (Allen), and Mildred, as well as his first wife, mother of his children and friend till the very end, Louise.

A celebration of Jack’s life will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM at East Delta Hall. All who knew and loved Jack are welcome to join us.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Jack’s memory can be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Canada.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to Melville Hospice in White Rock, especially to nurse Rochelle.

We love you, Dad, may you rest peacefully.

A16 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

Celebrate their Legacy tnrl.ca Francis William James George May 25, 1943 - October 21, 2024 Francis William James George, known to the Black Powder community as Tiny, passed away on October 21, 2024, at 9 a.m.

The two young women he had taken under his wing spent his final evening with him and his wife. He will be deeply missed by his family and close friends. Tiny considered everyone in the Black Powder community a friend.

He was an active member of the community, dedicating his time to garbage cleanup in Lower Nicola, volunteering at the Merritt Soup Basket, serving on the board of Three Eagles, and working with Conayt and the Métis Society. Passionate about sharing his skills, he taught others and created intricate carvings, beadwork, painted plaques and drums, as well as handmade knives—ranging from large to miniature—Black Powder accoutrements, and firearms.

A Celebration of Life was held on November 2, 2024, at the Merritt Senior Centre in Tutill Court.

In his honour, the Jim George Memorial Shoot will take place in early May at the Buffalo Ranch in Merritt.

Additionally, the Nicola Valley Charcoal Burners will hold a Memorial Shoot for Tiny on Easter weekend, April 19, at 9 a.m., following a pancake breakfast. A rendezvous will begin on Friday, April 18.

Cards and condolences may be sent via www.

MerrittFuneralChapel.com.

Violet Austin June 4, 1948 - April 12, 2025

Violet Austin was born on June 4th, 1948 to Agnes and Casper Munro in Gladwin; she was one of 18 children. Violet married Smith Austin on December 17th, 1976, after having 4 daughters. The two would have 7 children together: Karen

Munro, baby, Judy Munro, Crystal Munro, Carrie Munro, Smith Austin Jr., and Steve Austin. They bought their forever home in spring of 1973 before Carrie was born. During the atmospheric river event on November 15th, 2021, Violet lost this home.

In 2019, Violet was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, after battling illness since the spring of 2018. Even with battling this cancer, she still enjoyed watching and scorekeeping at the ball fields. The last thing she did before going to the hospital on Friday night was play Bingo, an activity she did frequently with her best friend, Maggie.

She fought valiantly, and in the end, she was tired and pneumonia triumphed on April 12th, 2025. We were all so grateful to have been by her side that day. She was not alone.

No longer in pain and back with her husband once again. We know that she was greeted with open arms by her mommy, daddy, husband, daughter, son, and great-granddaughter.

Fly high momma, gma, great-gma, and great-great-gma.

We all love you and will miss you so very much.

Kenneth William McCue March 15, 1947 - April 25, 2025

It is with heavy hearts the family of Kenneth William McCue announce his passing on Friday, April 25, 2025 at the age of 78 after a brief but aggressive battle with cancer.

Ken will be remembered by his wife of 39 years, Irene Guzyk, daughter Sarah (Joshua) and grandson, Micah. He will also be thought of by his children Alison, Scott, Sean (deceased), sisters Dorothy Kay and Patricia (Melvin) and several nieces and nephews.

Ken was born March 15, 1947 and raised in Coos Bay, Oregon. He did two tours with the USA Navy in Vietnam and completed his Licensed Practical Nurse training in Vancouver, BC, working on the coast as well as at the Nicola Valley Hospital. Ken was well known in Merritt for being friendly and sociable. He had many interests including hunting, fishing, aviation, mechanics, camping, reading and WWII history. He will be missed dearly.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

A memorial donation to the Merritt Library creates a lasting tribute that directly supports our community.

Gifts may fund literacy programs, enhance collections or support library improvements.

Give today at tnrl.ca/donate or call 250-378-4737

Larry Edward Gamache October 10, 1947 - April 22, 2025

April 11, 2025

Larry Edward Gamache (aka Gump/Gumper) passed away on April 22 in Kamloops at the age of 77.

He will be lovingly remembered by his two children, Mark (Nicole) and Josh (Natalie); his three grandchildren, Benjamin, Elliott, and Lily; and the countless friends he made throughout his life.

Eternally armed with a wisecrack, Larry spent his life spreading joy to those around him and lending a hand to those in need. Though he left a mark wherever he went, he always remained firmly rooted in the Merritt community.

Leslie Maxwell Simmonds August 7, 1926 ~ May 25, 2025

With sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Max Simmonds, father to Joy (Dave) Crego, Bonnie (Arne) Huse, and Brenda (Nolan) Winser.

He was grandpa to Derek (Susie), Jennifer (Mike), Jonathan, Veronica, Joshua, Felicia, and greatgrampa to Jesse (Meaghan), Kyla (Josiah), Ethan, Zaden, Vennex, Trexton, and Nevaeh.

He was predeceased by his wife Jean, his son David, and great granddaughter Micah.

Max was born in Leross, Saskatchewan. At Northwest Bible School in Edmonton, he met Jean Hale. After marrying in 1953, they went into fulltime ministry as pastor and wife with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada.

Max leaves behind the people whose lives he has loved and touched, ever to be remembered until we meet again.

We, his family, want to acknowledge the amazing care and kindness shown to Dad by the staff at the Merritt Hospital.

His memorial will be Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 2:30 at Crossroads Community Church in Merritt; B.C.

In memory of our long-time team members Larry Gamache and Jim Ball.

Co-workers, friends, family.

You are not forgotten.

Marie Delina Chartier Mrs. Marie Delina Chartier (nee Normand) passed away peacefully in Merritt, BC on April 11, 2025, at the age of 92.

She is lovingly remembered by her family - Daughters: Rose (Glen) Theriault, of Burnaby, BC and Helen Renaud, of Merritt, BC; Sons: Arthur (Rea) Chartier, of McBride, BC and Roy (Pat) Chartier of Kamloops, BC; her Grandchildren: Elysia (Richard) Drobott and great-grandson Aiden, of Burnaby, BC and Laura (Brendon) Christy and greatgrandson Hudson of Merritt, BC (family of Helen); Debra (Gary) Pijnenburg and great-granddaughter Tala, of Prince George, BC and Charles (Mandy) Chartier and great-grandson Brody, of Marlboro, Alberta (family of Arthur); Ezra (Haley) Theriault, of Burnaby, BC (family of Rose).

Marie Chartier was predeceased by her loving husband, Noel J Chartier, in 2001 and her grandson Richard Chartier of Kamloops, BC in 2024. (family of Roy) Marie was a loving mother, grandmother and great-gran, eldest sister, friend, great listener & counselor, who liked to garden, cook, bake, was very caring and supportive to her family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 13/2025, at the Merritt Cemetery at 10:30am, where her son Arthur Chartier will say a prayer and read Scripture.

Sandy Ronald Aljam November 18, 1961 ~ March 28, 2025

“Ron” Sandy Ronald Aljam, aged 63, of Merritt, passed away on March 28, 2025. Born on November 18, 1961, Ron was known for his gentle spirit, deep knowledge, and for the love for the outdoors. His strengths and happiness has left a lasting impression on all who knew him.

Home hardware

building centre Locally Locally Owned Owned & & Operated Operated

www.merritthomehardware.ca www.merritthomehardware.ca

1701 1701 Voght Voght St., St., Merritt, Merritt, B.C. B.C. 250-378-4215 250-378-4215

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A17

Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Remembering the unique lives that have been lived

Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.

Ron graduated from MSS and continued his education at BCIT, NVIT, and UCC, where he honed his skills in forestry.

This background paved the way for his esteemed career as a Fire Chief and in Public Work’s for the Coldwater Band, and as a Fire Warden for the Nicola Valley area. He was passionate about fire fighting and dedicated much of his time to recruiting volunteers for the Coldwater Volunteer Fire Department.

Ron worked hard at creating the Recycling and Composting Programs for his Coldwater Communities, because of his love of the environment, which is still in operation today.

Ron’s hobbies ranged from hunting, photography, traveling and hockey, in his younger days, Ron enjoyed skating on the pond during the winter, training horses, showcasing his adventurous spirit and love for nature.

Ron leaves behind a loving family, including his granddaughter, llyanna. His siblings, many nieces, nephews, extending to great-great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased in death by his parents, Sandy and Elizabeth (nee Harry) Aljam, his wives Lorinda Aljam (nee Collins) and Cheryl Aljam (nee Porter) and his daughter Dawn Porter.

He will be remembered for his dedication to his communities and his joyful approach to life. He made a significant impact through his professional endeavors and his personal passions, leaving a legacy that will be cherished by many.

Judith (Judy) Favelle September 17, 1947 ~ June 5, 2025

Judy Favelle died peacefully on June 5, 2025, surrounded by family, after living for many years with a number of significant health challenges. She was 77.

Judy was born in New Westminster in September 1947 and spent her early childhood in several small Vancouver Island communities before her family settled in Merritt in 1960. She was athletic and energetic in her younger years—known for her speed and strength—and was a high school basketball cheerleader. In her teen years, she lived for a time with her aunt and uncle in Nanaimo. After graduating, she began working at the Bank of Montreal, marking the start of a long and steady career in banking.

She met Jack Favelle at a dance in Merritt, and they quickly discovered a shared love of music and movement that would

shape much of their life together. They married in 1967 and welcomed their daughter, Tracey, in 1970. From 1978 to 2010, Judy and Jack lived in Kamloops, where Judy worked at the Royal Bank of Canada for over 30 years. She played softball, bowled in local leagues, golfed regularly, and was an active member of a women’s golf league for many years. She followed the Kamloops Blazers and spent many weekends camping with Jack in their trailer.

After retiring, they moved to Penticton and settled directly into the building where Judy’s father Alec lived. It was a quiet but meaningful act of care following the earlier loss of her mother, Jessie. Judy continued bowling in Penticton leagues and remained active in the small routines and relationships that gave her life structure and meaning. She enjoyed travel, including a special trip to Mexico with her sister-in-law Brenda and niece Nicola, and she and Jack continued to explore the Okanagan and beyond in their RV. Judy was steady, loyal, and dedicated to the people she loved. She showed up for her family—driving long distances to be at her grandchildren’s volleyball games, music recitals, graduations, holidays, and weddings. She didn’t draw attention to it, but she was there. And her presence mattered.

She had longstanding friendships—some lasting more than sixty years—and a way of making people feel welcome and at ease. Her humour was often dry, and when something truly struck her funny bone, her laugh—punctuated by a signature snort—could set off a ripple of laughter in those around her.

Judy also faced significant health challenges over the years. She was diagnosed with lymphoma in 1996, underwent surgery for a large meningioma in 2018 that left lasting cognitive and physical effects, later faced breast cancer, a serious case of COVID, and a return of lymphoma in her final years. These challenges tested her, but she met them with quiet resolve.

Judy is survived by her husband of 58 years, Jack; their daughter Tracey and son-in-law Ryan; four grandchildren, Isaiah (Julia), Lydia, Matthias (Reagan) and Gabriel; and three great-grandchildren. She also leaves her brother Brent, his wife Brenda, and their daughter Nicola, along with extended family and friends from many stages of her life.

She was predeceased by her parents, Alec and Jessie Campbell, and remained closely connected to them throughout her life.

Her memory lives on in the small routines, shared stories, and gestures of care she quietly offered to others.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and volunteers at Langley Hospice Residence for their exceptional care and compassion during Judy’s final days.

Robert Owen Reid August 11, 1955 - June 4, 2025

It is with great sorrow that we share the news of Robert (Bob) Reid passing away suddenly but peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, June 4th 2025.

Bob, Bobby, Papa, was born Aug 11, 1955 in Vancouver BC. He moved to Merritt in 1960 with his parents Bill and Lois Reid. Always up for trying something new, in his youth Bob was active in baseball and cub scouts and in high school he loved to play football, curled and skied. Sailing and hang gliding were added to the list after graduating from MSS and snowboarding eventually replaced skiing.

In 1975 Bob graduated from an electronics program at SAIT in Calgary, moved to Abbotsford, and started his career with the Matsqui Cablevision company. It was there that he met the love of his life, Marilyn, and they were married soon afterwards. He returned to Merritt in 1981 to join the family business at Merritt Cablevision Ltd. Bob and Marilyn were blessed with two beautiful, healthy baby girls. Megan Kyli came first in 1983 followed by Kristen Leah in 1985.

Bob built and headed the first community programming channel for Merritt Cablevision and worked hard to bring local events and community interests to the residents of Merritt.

A very community minded person, Bob was a volunteer for Big Brothers of Canada, a longstanding member of Rotary International receiving the Paul Harris award, very active in the Nicola Valley Kennel Club, supported and promoted the David Suzuki Blue Dot Movement, and supported many local organizations. When the company sold to Shaw in 1989, Bob opened a CruiseShip Center in Kelowna to tap into his love of travel. He and Marilyn returned to Merritt in 2001 where he became a Telus Mobility representative. His next big adventure was to start a hop farm on their property in Sunshine Valley.

His hops became part of the brews at the local Empty Keg and a craft brewery in West Kelowna.

After the flood destroyed the hop field, he and Marilyn moved to Nelson BC in July of 2023 where the rest of the family had already congregated. Bob immediately joined local organizations such as the Nelson Electric Tramway Society and the Rowing Club and when the Nelson Curling Club closed, he drove to Castlegar so he could continue to

participate in Men’s Night. Bob’s mantra was “Anything is possible if you put your mind to it.”

Over the years Bob fought through a number of health issues but always with a positive outlook. He never let his afflictions damper the joy he found spending time with his grandchildren or the comedic relief he could find in the ups and downs of life. He was always up for a good prank and had a unique sense of humour.

Bob was a devoted husband and father and Bob’s grandchildren were the stars in his sky. His pride in their achievements and talents as they grew and explored life was endless. Band concerts with Robin, exploring the cosmos with Lottie and enjoying her talented artwork, cheering on Odin at his ballgames, and regular family time together all brought immeasurable joy to his life.

The family is extremely grateful for the excellent care Bob received from the doctors and staff at the KBR Hospital in Trail.

Bob was pre-deceased by his parents William (Bill) G. Reid, Lois Maxine Reid and his brother David Scot Reid.

He is survived by his wife Marilyn Reid, daughter Kristen Reid, daughter Megan Couves (Noel), granddaughters Robin and Lottie, grandson Odin, sister Leslie Reynoldson (Jack), nieces Courtney and Haley, sister-in-law Kelly, nephew Joel, nephew Ryan (Jenn) and grandnieces Frances and Naomi.

There will be no service by request. Bob’s latest venture was to become a beekeeper. The decline of the bee populations around the world encouraged him to become active in supporting their recovery.

Donations to the BC Beekeepers Association in memory of Bob would be greatly appreciated.

His passing will leave a deep shadow in our lives, but memories will bring us light.

Forever in our hearts…

We honour the lives of those who have left us, cherishing their contributions, memories, and the love they shared.

Their legacy lives on in our hearts and our community.

MERRITT SENIOR CENTRE

1675 Tutill Court, Merritt 250-378-3763 E: msca2@telus.net

A18 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

250-315-2364 merritt@mrmikes.ca

3969 Crawford Avenue, Merritt BC as numerous great great grandchildren. Ralph also leaves to

his passing his sister Hazel.

Michael (Mike) mourn Ralph is predeceased by Irene his wife of 64 years , his Chris, his granddaughter Christina, his grandson Shawn, Gerard William father his great grandson Christopher, his son-in-laws David and Frank and his sisters Ruby and Doris.

Guichon Ralph’s family and many friends will miss his great stories December 26, 1982 - June 10, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael (Mike) Gerard William Guichon on June 10, 2025.

Mike will be sadly missed by his Mother, Judy Guichon and her husband Bruno Mailloux; his sister Allison Crawford and her children Taylor, Danny and Ronnie; his sister Tabitha Guichon and her daughter Jordyn; his brother Darcy Guichon and many friends and relatives. He was predeceased by his father, Laurie Guichon.

Mike loved spending his time out on the water. Whether that was fishing in the ocean or boating on the lake. He was always looking forward to his next adventure and his next big catch.

Ralph Thomsen Sept 4, 1929 To June 12, 2025

It is with great sadness the family of Ralph Thomas Thomsen announces his passing on June 12, 2025 in Edmonton at the age of 95.

Ralph spent his life doing what he loved most, ranching.

Cattle and horses were his life work and his passion. He ranched on the family farm in Vermilion AB, until 1981 when he and his wife Irene bought a ranch in Merritt, BC. It has been only the past few months that Ralph moved to Edmonton with his family.

Ralph is survived by his six daughters Linda (Len), Audrey, Carol, Arlene, Janice (Cal)), Gail (Mark) Grandchildren Jesse, Alicia (Jevere) Melanie, Melissa, Courtney (Dan), Nicole (Rob), Chris (Laceigh), Natasha, Dustin (Heather) Great grandchildren Christy, Zoe, Shaylyn, Keagan, Colton, Kitsune, Damyan, Kylo, Octavia, Heyden , Jaxton, Zaiden, Quila, Kyra, Cole, Havyn, Hudson, Cruz, Jax, Finn, Nash, Palmer, Caden, Conor, Hannah, Josie, Eloise as well

of life back in the good ole days when work was much harder but a simpler life.

A celebration of Ralph’s life will be held on July 12th 11:00 am at Pozzobon Ranch, Merritt, B.C.

Judith (Judy) Elaine Fassbender (Kolesar) May 4, 1951 ~ June 14, 2025

With great sadness, we announce the passing of Judy Fassbender, who died peacefully at the Merritt Hospital on June 14, 2025, with her devoted husband Jerry by her side.

Judy bravely fought a long battle with ovarian cancer.

Judy dedicated her life to caring for others. She began her nursing career as a psychiatric nurse at Riverview in Coquitlam in 1968. Over the years, she worked at several hospitals including Vancouver General, St. Paul’s, Mount St. Joseph, Mount St. Vincent, and Shaughnessy. She later became a homecare nurse serving communities in Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam, Maple Ridge, Surrey, and Langley.

After earning her Bachelor of Arts in Nursing, Judy became a Public Health Nurse, serving both 100 Mile House and Merritt. She and Jerry also ran a fishing resort at Deka Lake before retiring in 2007 and settling in Merritt, where she continued to contribute to public health and later offered foot care services where she ended her career. Judy was active in her community, involved with the Red Hat Society (or Crown Jewels) and Merritt’s Country Christmas celebrations.

She was predeceased by her stepchildren Dirk Fassbender and Carla Fassbender. Judy is survived by her brother Jim (Barb) Kolesar, niece Rachael, nephew Daniel, and extended family. She is also lovingly remembered by her stepson Mark (Tracey) Dayton, nephew Neil, and nieces Heidi, Amanda, and Tessa. Judy will be deeply missed by family in Almonte, Ontario, including Harriett, John Byrne, Wally Fassbender, Neary Willy, Cathy Fassbender, and Mike Fassbender.

Once A Nurse always a Nurse

Maureen Tudor October 31, 1945 – May 21, 2025

With deep sadness, we share the passing of Maureen Tudor (Mama Moe) on May 21, 2025, at the age of 79. She passed peacefully at Gillis House in Merritt, BC. Her family is deeply grateful to the staff in the Multi and Special Care Units for their compassion and care in her final years. Maureen was born on October 31, 1945, in New Westminster, BC, at Royal Columbian Hospital. True to her Halloween birthday, she was a spirited woman with a wild heart, a bold way with words, and a presence you never forgot.

She was predeceased by her husband, Sidney Tudor, and by Al Hollick, a significant part of her life who supported her in raising the girls and remained an important part of her journey.

She is survived by her children Laura (Dennis) MacDonald, Angela (Brian) Holmes, and Ken (Sonya) Hollick; grandchildren Sedona Rose MacDonald, Carter Holmes, and Daxon Holmes; and her lifelong best friend, Joan Keller.

A Celebration of Life will be held in July 2025 at the Merritt Seniors Hall, connected to the museum. All who shared in Maureen’s life are welcome to attend.

To honour Maureen’s memory, donations or snack contributions to the Multi and Special Care Units at Gillis House are welcome. Instead of flowers, remember her in your own way — with a story or a smile.

(son: Lucious), Jaime, Brycen, Madeleine and Marlon.

Edna has many extended family members in Bonaparte and Skeetchestn.

Edna dedicated her life working as a First Nations Homemaker (Home Care Aide) starting in Williams Lake and then the Nicola Valley. She loved working with the elders where she learned traditional teachings, history, protocol, the genealogy of families and the importance of elder care and parenting skills. Edna loved her family, especially her grandchildren.

The Blankinship family would like to thank all who attended the wake and funeral. We greatly appreciate the donations, volunteers, hand-drummers, cooks, seamstresses, fire keepers, horse riders, photographers, prayer warriors, and everyone who surrounded our family with love and kindness.

Thank you Sonni Kiitokii (Justin) for carving Edna’s headstone and for being the MC. And, Marilyn for guiding us through protocol.

“WELM-YEWS REN PUSMEN” (Forever in Our Hearts)

John James (Jim) Irving May 24, 1936 – June 19, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Irving Sr., who left us on June 19, 2025, at the age of 89.

Jim was a proud Merrittonian, born and raised in the Nicola Valley, where he also met the love of his life, Donna. Jim and Donna were married on June 29, 1956, and together they raised a family built on love and commitment.

Jim was predeceased by his beloved wife Donna in April Sunrise: April 22, 1938 - 2022, and by his brother Bob in November 2022.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Jim (Brenda) Sunset: June 12, 2025 and Terry (Karen); grandchildren: Janis (Dan), Ryan (Maria), and Naomi (Alan); and great-grandchildren: Nolan, Niah, A loving wife, mother, sister, grandmother, aunty and friend. Tenley, Scarlett, and Aubrey.

As per Jim’s request, there will be no funeral or memorial Survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Archie Blankinship; Daughters: Jennie & Pam. Sons: Dwayne, Mel service.

The family is deeply grateful for the compassionate care Jim & James. Grandchildren: Robbyn, Lee (son: Gavin), Jedi, LeTeesh (son: Damon), LeSandra (daughters: Humming & received while living at Pine Grove Place in Kamloops, BC. Autumn), Melissa (daughters: Taliyah & Tianna), Candace

Edna Ann Blankinship

Remembering and honoring the lives and legacies of all those we lost in 2024.

May their memory live on in our hearts forever.”

A message from Nicola Valley Teacher’s Union

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A19

In loving tribute to lives remembered, we honour the power of memory and the healing found in sharing stories. It’s okay to

www.currentscounselling.ca #204-1951 Garcia St., Merritt

Peter Joseph Szymczak August 18, 1945 – June 15, 2025

Peter Joseph Szymczak, of Aspen Grove, BC, passed away peacefully in Kamloops, BC on Sunday, June 15, 2025 at the age of 79. Peter was born on August 18, 1945 in Nurnburg, Germany; he grew up in Richmond, moved to Tulameen and then to Aspen Grove. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Leslye. Peter leaves behind his daughter, Aimee, son-inlaw, Peter Brady and grandchildren, Baron and Emily, bother, Ken, and sisters, Eva, Mona and Gina and as well as many relatives and friends. Peter is predeceased by his mother and father.

Peter loved the outdoors, camping, fishing, hunting and working in his yard and greenhouse. Peter also enjoyed the sun, sand and surf of Guayabitos, Mexico.

A celebration of Peter’s life will be held this fall in Vancouver.

Gary Thomas Bone July 25, 1949 - July 4, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gary Thomas Bone. He passed in the city of Merritt BC on July 4, 2025 at the age of 75.

Gary was born on July 25, 1949 in Medicine Hat, Alberta.

He is survived by his 3 children, their spouses, 4 grandchildren, his brother, sisters, nephews and nieces, as well as many cousins and longtime friends-including his K9 buddy Ted. He lived and worked throughout Alberta and BC. He held jobs in many different industries from mining to paramedics, prior to starting his long career with BC Hydro; which took him and his family throughout the province.

He served as a BC Hydro Pioneer, Knights of Columbus and Lions Club member. He was also a Scout leader, and a volunteer fire fighter during his life.

remember, to feel, and to talk about those we’ve lost.

Together, we can find comfort in the journey.

Gary loved camping and fishing with family and friends and spending time with his grandchildren. He had a passion for woodworking and enjoyed helping others with handyman and renovation projects.

He was a good man with a big heart and a funny sense of humor. He made an impact on those he met and all who knew him.

Rest in peace Dad Love Kristina, Sean & Neal

Ernest Frederick Jones 1938 – 2025

wouldn’t sit at. He was a man who embraced risks, celebrated wins, and handled losses with grace and calm. In both life and the game, Ernie played with heart—and that’s what everyone will remember most.

Ernie’s life was marked by kindness, quiet humor, and a deep devotion to his family. His lessons, love, and laughter will echo for generations to come.

A celebration of Ernie’s life will be held at the Merritt Crossroads Church on Saturday, July 12th, at 1:00 pm with a tea to follow.

He will be missed beyond measure and remembered with endless love.

Fiore Cavaliere

With deep love and deep sadness, we announce the passing April 7, 1940 – June 24, 2025 of Ernest Frederick “Ernie” Jones on July 2, 2025. After fighting many health battles, with his family by his side, Ernie answered the call to join his heavenly family, his earthly journey complete, his legacy everlasting.”

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Ernie was a devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, Nonno, father, husband, Fiore Cavaliere. He entered into rest great-grandfather, son, brother, uncle, and friend. To know in Merritt, BC on June 24, 2025, at the age of 85. He is lovingly Ernie was to feel the quiet power of a kind soul. His influence remembered by his wife, Maria Cavaliere; kids, Rino (Linda), rippled far beyond his family, touching friends, neighbors, and Rita (Russ) Willey and Gian Franco (Liz); grandchildren, strangers alike. His absence will be felt deeply, but his spirit Nicolas, Nathan, Alexandra, Gian Marco, Lorenzo and will live on in every heart he touched.”

Julianna. He is also survived by his siblings, Federico (Anna), He is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Myrna, and Maria (Antonio), Silvana (Raffaele), Vittorio (Barb), Graziella their daughters, Laurie (husband, Blain) and Cindy (husband, (Rocco) and Remo (Yolande). He is predeceased by his father, Bill). He was a proud grandfather to Chris, John, Jordie, Cody, Valerio Cavaliere, mother, Gemma Cavaliere, and siblings, and granddaughter Cody. His legacy continues in his cherished Angela (Antonio), Giuseppe (Albina), Antonio (Assunta), and great-grandchildren: McKayla, Kolby, Ryleigh, Dani, Shane, Elisabetta (Giuseppe).

Kash, Addi, Ryder, Mason, and Poppy.

Fiore was born in Pizzoferato, Italy and came to Canada in Ernie was born in Princeton on April 8th, 1938, to Cecil 1963 to begin a new life. He married Maria in 1972 in Italy and and Mary Jones. He shared his life with his brothers Ken and she joined him in Canada to settle and start a family. Papa’s Stanley, and his set of twin sisters, Sharron and Carrol. At the greatest joy was his family; he woke up everyday for his age of 17, he met the love of his life, Myrna McKay, and they wife, kids and grandchildren, loving them fiercely. He never were married in 1956. hesitated to help out friends and those in the community. This Ernie became an electrician at Craigmont Mines and moved included being an active member of the Knights of Columbus. up the ladder to become the very last employee of the mine He always made time for his true passions: gardening, making when it closed down. Ernie spent over 62 years in the Nicola wine and prosciutto and spending time with friends especially Valley, where he volunteered on numerous committees, as well if it was over a game of Scopa. as operating businesses in the community.

There will be a prayer vigil on July 3 at 7pm with the funeral Golf and poker weren’t just Ernie’s hobbies—they were service taking place on July 4 at 11am and both occurring at reflections of how he approached life. He played both with Sacred Heart Parish in Merritt BC. Immediately following, passion, fun, and an easy sense of camaraderie, always going Fiore will be laid to rest at Pineridge Cemetery. Following all in. There wasn’t a tournament he’d turn down, nor a table he the graveside service, Maria and her children would like to

extend an invitation to join them at the Sacred Heart Hall for a luncheon.

We would like to thank the staff at NVGH and Dr. Ross for their support and comfort. The care you all showed towards Papa was above and beyond during the entire process. We will be forever grateful to each of you. We also wanted to extend our thank you to family, friends and the community as a whole, who have been incredibly supportive during this difficult time.

On-line condolences may be expressed at www.

MerritttFuneralChapel.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Lung Foundation.

Papa, you always told others how proud you were of your family. We are so proud of you for the legacy you have left behind.

Williams, Elizabeth (Beth) Carol

(nee Deneef) Dec. 5, 1957 - June 25, 2025 It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Beth Williams on June 25, 2025 at her home in Merritt, BC. Beth was born and raised in Kamloops, BC. She spent many years living in the lower mainland, eventually moving to Merritt. She loved fishing, camping, watching football, and spending time with her family.

Beth was predeceased by her father Gerald in 1997, her mother Elsie in 2019, and late husband David Kwitkowski in 2003. Beth is remembered and missed by her loving husband Dave Williams, daughter Christine (Andy), son Kevin (Becky), step-son John, step-daughter Julie, grandchildren Sophie, Kaitlyn, Daniel, Abbey, and Khloe, sisters Debbie (Jerry) and Karen (Ken) as well as her niece Lindsay (Toby), nephew Tyler (Darcy) her great niece and nephews, and many cousins and friends.

An intimate family gathering will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Beth to the Heart & Stroke Foundation, Diabetes Canada, or Fibromyalgia Association Canada.

HONOURING THE SPECIAL MEMORIES of gathering around the table, sharing meals, and creating lasting moments together. A tribute to those who brought warmth, love, and flavour to every meal.

Peter’s

2760 Forksdale Ave. 1-866-987-6453

A20 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

HONOURING LIVES REMEMBERED At Ska-Lu-La Workshop, we celebrate the memories of those who shaped our community.

Together, we cherish their legacies and continue their spirit of giving.

Ska-Lu-La Workshop 1775 COLDWATER AVE, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 program for Carpentry and later received his Red Seal ticket

family and friends that stopped by for a visit, a chat, to offer

beloved second wife, Ana Grams; his sister, Eleanor; his

Shed. Reg went on to become Head Millwright for Ardew Wood Products Ltd until 2013 and after as Millwright for Tolko Industries Ltd. In 2017 he started working for Klassen Wood Co Ltd and enjoyed the challenge of helping to shape the newly formed plant with co-workers into the current operation it is today.

Reg was a highly skilled, experienced and regularly sought after tradesman for his years of knowledge and expertise in the trade. He was known for his hard work, dedication and commitment to a project and in getting a job done well. He established and maintained his contacts and friendships, always keeping in touch with the many trades and industry experts during his career.

Reg had an exceptional sense of humor and could always relate a good story or experience. He was passionate about getting outdoors, to appreciate his Creator’s amazing playground, using his vast knowledge of the area to explore every opportunity he could. Whether skiing (back country, downhill or x-country), paddling (kayak or canoe), hiking, mountain biking, camping or a road trip on his motorbike with friends. A favorite phrase of his was “what you ski today, you paddle tomorrow.”

As a father, he was always willing to lend a hand or suggest a different idea on how to do something. He was always available to talk to and eager to hear about what was new with them. Dad was fair, reasonable and encouraging in anything the kids wanted to try. Growing up, witness to all his years of hard work and instilled the same values of work ethic, integrity and honesty in both of his sons. He especially enjoyed spending time with his sons; motorbiking, hiking, camping or just sitting around the fire and watching his grandkids play.

Reg’s faith, kindness, generosity, and love for his family and friends will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him. Reg was a real people person, able to easily communicate and strike up a conversation with just about anyone. He believed in building and valuing relationships and creating lasting memories. We will carry on his will and continue to stay strong as a family, until we meet again.

The family would like to pass on a special and heartfelt thank you to Dr. Nguyen, Dr. Owen (Kelowna Cancer Clinic), Dr. Ewart and Dr. Sieberhagen (Kamloops Cancer Clinic), Dr. Lali and Merritt Home Support nurses Erin, Jessica and Bailee a sincere thank you for the excellent and compassionate care and support you provided for Reg and I. As well, to our caring

2025, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 1505 Sunset Ave, Merritt, BC at 2:00 pm. The service will also be available online via ZOOM, please email renvallee@icloud. com for info.

On-line condolences may be expressed at www.

MerrittFuneralChapel.com

affection, a tenacious spirit, and unforgettable humour.

He will be deeply missed by his family and friends, but his legacy will forever be persevered in our hearts.

There will be a Celebration of Life at his childhood home, 2675 Garcia Street, Saturday August 23, 2025 at 11 am.

the Millwright trade. encouragement or to share a laugh. We are so truly grateful. brothers, Stephen and Terence; his two daughters Kate Nicola Gary George for Reg started out working building homes in the Merritt area.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that a donation be made to Mounce and Rae Phoenix Grams; and two grandchildren Doran and Marie Mounce In 1984 to 1986 he worked on the Coquihalla Bridge Crew the Canadian Cancer Society.

Fairley (Phase 1), which included 7 bridges and the Great Bear Snow Gordon was an incredible character full of fatherly A memorial service will be held on Saturday August 2, February 24, 1951 - July 5, 2025

Gary and his twin sister Lynn were born in Prince George in 1951. Not long after they were adopted by their wonderful parents Rosamond and George Fairley. Gary grew up in Merritt and loved spending his time working and playing on local ranches. He would later turn that in to a career. He was a devoted father and grandfather who was generous, kind, and the first to offer help. He will be deeply missed.

Gary is survived by his loving partner Carol, his son Cory (Tanya), his grandchildren Dominik (Lucas) and Jake, his sister Lynn, his niece Debbie (Steve), and nephew Lee (Sarah).

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, July 18th from 6 to 8 pm at the hall at St. Andrews Place Co-op. The address is 7365 Cedar Street in Mission.

Henri ‘Reg’ Reginald Vallee November 29, 1960 July 4, 2025

Henri ‘Reg’ Reginald Vallee passed away on July 4, 2025, after a long hard-fought battle with brain cancer. He was 64.

Reg is survived by his loving wife of 37 years, Renata Vallee, sons Kaylan Turchinetz of Merritt, BC, Zhan (Kristen)Vallee of Grand Forks, BC, granddaughters Brooklyn Vallee and Hadley Vallee, brothers Robert (Sandy) Vallee, Louis (Darlene) Vallee and sisters Jackie (Byron) O’Neill and Pauline (Alex) Horvath, nieces & nephews, as well as many exceptionally close friends and relatives. He is predeceased by his mother Irene Vallee, father Marcel Vallee and brother Denis Vallee.

Reg was born in Bonneyville, Alberta on November 29, 1960. His oldest sister didn’t like the name Henri, so she started using ‘Reg’ and it stuck throughout his lifetime. In 1971 his family packed up the car and moved to Merritt, BC. He attended school in Merritt and graduated from Merritt Senior Secondary School in 1979. He entered the trades

Grand Chief Bob Pasco

Ernest “Gordon” Grams

April 20, 1940 - July 21, 2025

February 2, 1953 - July 9, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ernest “ Gordon” Grams, known to his friends and family as Gordon, who died on July 9, 2025, in Lima, Peru, at the age of 72.

Born on February 2, 1953, in Atikokan, Ontario, Canada, Gordon’s life was shaped by a passion for ice hockey, a brilliant mind for engineering, and an extraordinary sense of humour. Gordon’s academic journey led him to the University of British Columbia, where he earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Engineering in 1977. This degree launched a distinguished career that saw him become a well-regarded figure in the Peruvian mining industry.

From 1989 to 1995, Gordon served as Chief Engineer of Southern Peru Copper Corporation, a testament to his expertise and leadership. His career also included significant roles such as Vice President of Peruvian operations at Vena Resources, Chief Operating Officer at Stellar Mining Peru, and General Manager at Mining Industry Consultant Peru to name a few.

Gordon’s life was as diverse as the places he called home, living in communities like Merritt, Vancouver, Williams Lake, Faro, Kelowna, Toquepala, Cajamarca, and Lima. He traveled extensively, touring through Europe, Australia, the Caribbean, and all throughout the Americas. His fluency in both English and Spanish served to further enriched both his personal and professional endeavors.

Gordon was predeceased by his father Ernie Grams, mother Natia Grams, sister, Phyllis Natia Irvine, nephew Travis Grams and his first wife, Susan Barton Grams. He is survived by his

Grand Chief Bob Pasco, from Ntequem, an honoured leader of the Nlaka’pamux Nation, passed on July 21, 2025. His legacy will live on and continue to be a foundation and guiding force for the Nlaka’pamux Nation. Grand Chief Pasco fought tirelessly to defend and advance the title and rights of the Nlaka’pamux while at the same time being a champion steer wrestler, rancher, friend and beloved member of his family. His spirit will live on in all he has taught and shared.

The life of Grand Chief Pasco was celebrated at the Pasco Ranch, Ntequem, on Sunday, July 27th at 9:00 am. Viewing was held at the Pasco Ranch on Friday and Saturday July 25th and 26th from 5:00 to 8:00 pm.

Eugene Andrew Moffat Aug. 6, 1955 - July 25, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Eugene (Geno) Moffat. He will be greatly missed by family and many friends, and his faithful dog Capone.

A celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure

MERRITT HERALD Your Voice of the Nicola Valley Since 1905

www.merrittherald.com | 250-378-4241 #201- 1951 Garcia Street, Merritt, BC

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A21

2088 Quilchena Avenue Ph: 250-378-5877

Edward Proc August 17, 1935 ~ July 31, 2025

It’s with heavy hearts that the family shares the sudden passing of Edward (Ed) Proc. Leaving behind to grieve are his children Katherine (Dan), grandsons Justin and Joshua & great grandson’s Easton & Emmet. Dianne (Cliff), Susan (Harry), & grandsons Matthew (Karissa) & Kyle, Eddy (Mirta) and grandchildren Nicholas & Jacquelyn as well as his beloved dog Bailey.

Jon and Agnes Proc immigrated from Poland in 1930 with five children, arriving in Jasmine Saskatchewan, and that’s where Edward was born and his sister Carol. Eventually the family purchased a home in Ontario. Ed and Carol walked to school every day. Sometimes Carol would have to invent a story of why Ed was not in school. Dad discovered at an early age that he would rather learn from experience than books. At the age of 15 he decided it was time to head west, Arriving in Edmonton by train (without a ticket). He worked in Edmonton for about two years. Then Ed was getting restless, so he continued his journey to BC. This time the train took him to a small town called McBride. There he met wonderful people that helped him with work and accommodations. Everyone started calling him Junior because he was so young. It was at Jim’s café that Ed met a lovely waitress named Beatrice. She wasn’t quite sure about this brazen young Ontario man. But in time Ed won her heart and they were married in 1956. The family grew quickly with the addition of three daughters. Dad was now working for BC Hydro and got transferred to Vernon and that’s where Eddie was born. In 1970 Dad was transferred to Merritt. It was the perfect community for the both of them to raise their family. Dad enjoyed working for BC Hydro for 40 years. Throughout his career, he was fortunate to make many lifetime friends. Dad was a hard-working, self educated, generous, strong willed man. Dad put his family first and was always available to help. He was eager to lend a helping hand to friends as well. We will miss listening to his stories. Dad lived his life on his terms by living in his home to the age of 89. He is now reunited with his lovely wife.

May you both rest in peace.

The family would like to thank all the incredible people who helped dad over the years. Your kindness is much appreciated.

As requested, there will be no service.

As we remember and celebrate those who have touched our lives, we honour the joy, kindness, and warmth their SMILES brought to the world.

George Murray Neilson January 12, 1939 – July 28, 2025

It is with full hearts that we share the passing of George Murray Neilson—beloved father, grandfather, greatgrandfather, mentor, and friend—on July 28, 2025, in Merritt, British Columbia. He was 86.

Born in Brandon, Manitoba on January 12, 1939, Murray lived a life marked by grit, generosity, and grounded wisdom.

After spending his early years exploring the corners of the country, he found his forever home in the Nicola Valley during the 1960s—where he also found the love of his life, Marilyn Rose. The two were married for 55 years, building a home filled with laughter, resilience, and a whole lot of heart.

Murray was a man of many hats—and he wore them all with purpose. A logger by trade and a road builder by legacy, he co-founded ACE Logging and carved paths—literally and figuratively—that others could follow. If you ever got lost in the backroads, chances are Murray had built the way out—and if he didn’t, he’d still get you home.

His hands built things, but his heart built community.

Murray served as president of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship, held roles in the Kinsmen, coached hockey and softball, and spent years umpiring with the same care he gave to everything else. He was the man everyone called—whether they needed a laugh, advice, or a lifeline.

Murray’s sense of humour was unmatched—dry, unexpected, and often followed by a glint in his eye that said he knew he got you. He was present. Thoughtful. The kind of man who showed up for the big things, and especially for the small ones.

In retirement, Murray found joy in restoring antique farming equipment. His pride and joy was his restored Farmall Tractor, his yyracyor man being Jack Algrove. Murray’s passion for collecting “Murray’s Old Time Tools” lives on through a logo started by Dave Gross, which his loved ones still wear proudly today.

Murray is predeceased by his beloved wife Marilyn; his parents, Robert and Mary; his brothers Lorne and Eddie; his sisters Frances and Helen; his daughter Sheila; his grandson Tyler; and his nephew Phillip.

He is survived by his children Sharon, Marilee, Jonni,

Donna, Sam, Heather, and Terry, as well as his many grandchildren: Kassandra, Kaleb, Jacob, Isaac, Abram, Abra, Ashton, Reagan, Kristen, Heather, Holly, Charleen, Jarrod, and Sammy. He is also survived by his many great-grandchildren.

Special thanks are extended to Terry Stockwell for her compassionate and dignified palliative care, and to Don McLeod, Marvin Fraser, Ray Schindler, Deb Shearer, Dwayne Flett, and Rhonda Flett-Murray for their enduring friendship and support.

As per Murray’s wishes, there will be no formal service.

He will be cremated and reunited with Marilyn in the Nicola Valley—a place they both loved and called home.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the BC Diabetes Foundation or The Kidney Foundation of Canada.

Ardell Elizabeth Wescott July 20, 2025

In Loving Memory of Ardell Wescott Ardell Wescott, aged 72, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on July 30, 2025, in Kamloops, British Columbia.

Ardell was predeceased by her partner Edward Hunter of Merritt and a devoted mother to her four children, Paul, Gwenn (Dean), Trevor, and Owenn (Helen), and a loving grandmother to six grandchildren Grace, Mathias, Josh, Hope, Ayla and Hannah. She cherished every moment spent with her family, especially her grandchildren, and found joy in gardening and crocheting.

Her life was enriched by the community of friends she held dear from Planet Fitness, yoga classes, and the Nicola Valley Evangelical Church in Merritt, BC, where she resided. Ardell’s friends and community provided her with unwavering support and gracious friendships, especially during her time of need in recent years.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to the Nicola Valley Evangelical Church community and Kamloops Hospice Association for their kindness and support.

A service to celebrate Ardell’s life will be held on September 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at the Nicola Valley Evangelical Church, located at 1950 Maxwell Avenue, Merritt, BC. Ardell loved gifting her creations it would be very special if you are attending her service to bring something she made for you and see it all together.

Beverly Jean Turner (nee BURESH) February 19, 1947 ~ April 27, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we inform you of the passing of our mom, Bev Turner, at the age of 78, on April 27, 2025, in Leduc AB. Mom was born in Rutland BC, February 19, 1947, the second daughter of Joe and June Buresh. A loving daughter, sister, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, she lived a life full of love, kindness, generosity, hard work, sports and dance.

Mom grew up in the orchards on Hartman hill where her dad Joe had a house moving company. After graduating from Rutland High School in 1964, Mom moved to Salmon Arm to help her parents run their bowling center J Lanes, and in 1965 she met our father, Ewan Turner. Cheryl was born in 1966 and Scott in 1968 and together we moved as a family to Merritt, BC in 1974 where they purchased Nicolanes Bowling Center.

After their separation, Mom moved back to Salmon Arm and started a new career working for Cindy Derkatz law firm and then Brooke, Jackson, Downs. During her time at Brooke, Jackson, Downs, Mom moved to Lake Country, BC and soon found the commute to be too much. At that time, she took up a position with FHP Lawyers in Kelowna, where after several happy years she finished her career.

Demetia found Mom in 2014 and yet she managed to live on her own until 2020, at which point she moved to Leduc, AB with her daughter and son-in-law.

Bev is survived by her daughter, Cheryl and Wilf Brandt of Leduc, AB and Cheryl’s sons, Justin Kay, Cameron, Rebecca & Layton Kay, and Cody Kay. As well as her son Scott & Amanda Turner of Kelowna, BC and their sons Liam and Chae.

Mom was predeceased by her parents, Joe (1977) and June (2013) Buresh and her sister and brother-in-law, Shannon (2013) and Maynard (2017) Campbell.

A Gathering of Remembrance will be held at 1:00pm on August 30, 2025, at Bowers Funeral Service, 440 – 10th Street SW, Salmon Arm, BC. Donations may be made to your local youth sport association.

A22 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

They are not gone; they walk among us in the whispers of the wind and the shadows of the trees.

With special acknowledgment to Pete Hourie & Deedee Hurd, whose memories continue to inspire us.

Tiessen Doreen Annie March 21, 1930 – August 14, 2025

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Doreen Annie Tiessen, who peacefully departed on August 14, 2025, at the age of 95. Doreen was the heart and matriarch of her family, a woman whose love, guidance, and devotion shaped the lives of everyone around her. She was a beautiful presence whose family always came first.

She will be lovingly remembered by her children Ken (Sandra), Dennis (Eileen), Brenda (Jim), and Brad (Suzanne); her sister Irene (Happy); and by her many grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Doreen was predeceased by her sons Ron and David, her daughter Sandra, her sister Mildred, and her brothers Norman and Henry.

Doreen had a gift for making everyone feel valued. Her kindness and compassion left a lasting imprint on all who knew her. She loved deeply and was deeply loved by her family. She found joy in her flower garden, in laughter, and in the simple everyday moments. Some of the fondest memories were of time spent in her company, sharing stories and laughter over a comforting cup of sweet tea. A devoted fan of the Vancouver Canucks, she never missed a game and cheered passionately for her team through every season.

She taught countless life lessons, led with strength and love, and created a legacy of care, resilience, and joy.

Doreen will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

250-378-5015 or 250-378-0076 email: truck126@hotmail.com Facebook: Nicola Valley Metis

many cherished years in Goldbridge, BC, where he indulged his passions for hunting, tinkering in his garage, fishing, and cruising on his Argo. Jerry also discovered a love for photography, often capturing the beauty of the local wildlife.

Friends will fondly remember Jerry for his regular coffee time at the local A&W, and his family will forever cherish him as a loving dad, partner, and fun-loving grandpa. (Always ready with a captivating safari story,) Jerry is survived by his beloved companion, Valarie Davis; son, Quinn Meixner (Angie); daughter, Anita Meixner (Joe); his grandchildren, Elijah, Taryn, Jaris, Evin, Gabriel; and great-grandson, Jett. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

John Robert (J.P.) Paul May 8, 1938 – August 7, 2025

It is with very heavy hearts that we say goodbye to John Robert (JP) Paul who passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Thursday evening, August 7, 2025. He will be forever loved, missed and remembered by family and friends, hopefully, with smiles and laughter.

John was born in Stonewall Manitoba on May 8, 1938 to Harvey and Mary (nee Shaw) Paul, both now deceased. He grew up in Balmoral Manitoba with a number of brothers and sisters: Lorne (deceased) (Lynda); Betty (deceased); Lillian (deceased); Judy (deceased); Sandra (Glen); and Brian (Jackie).

He is survived and will be forever missed by his loving partner Lorraine Smith, children Geoffrey Paul (Linda), Jim Paul (Gail), Leanne Molyneaux, Sheri Smith (Carlos Alburquenque). Predeceased by Sean Smith (Natalie). In addition, John is survived by his grandchildren: Danielle Paul, Cody Paul, Kyle Christy (Robyn), Corey Molyneaux, Riley Paul, Emma Christy, Jordan Molyneaux, Brienna Molyneaux, Blake Paul, Kailey Molyneaux, Charlotte Smith and Ashleigh November 24, 1944 Smith. As well, he will be missed by his many nieces, nephews, ~ July 27, 2025 and friends.

John’s great friend Ian Hubbard (Maralyn) was a steadfast Jerry Meixner, born on November 24, 1944, in Normetal, friend right to the end, sharing his time with him and the Quebec, passed away peacefully on July 27, 2025, in Merritt, inspiration to keep going. His considered his sisters in-law BC. Elaine Jefferies (Harold, deceased) and Yvonne (Vonnie) Jerry had a profound love for the outdoors. He spent Moore (deceased) as great friends and always looked forward

Jerry Meixner

Open 11 am 7 DAYS A WEEK

Sports Bar

Grill

250-315-1022

3701 DEWOLF WAY, Merritt, BC

Nicola Valley & District Metis Society

to their visits.

John graduated from school in Balmoral, Manitoba and shortly after having played baseball in Warren, Manitoba he was picked up by a farm club, the St. Louis Cardinals, with whom he played professional ball for a year in the US. After returning to Manitoba he then trained and worked with Manitoba Hydro. In 1964 John moved to B.C. with his young family, settling in Merritt, B.C. and went to work for BC Hydro.

John was with BC Hydro for over 33 years. One of John’s favourite jobs was when he, along with a great crew mainly spearheaded by Ed Proc, put in a power line going up Hamilton Hill where, because of the terrain, they had to use horses Punch and Judy. John took this in stride feeling that he was only doing what was needed. Helicopters were also involved in this job. After retirement, in March of 1997, he continued with his own company taking on powerline contracts throughout BC. John decided that he didn’t have enough to do so he became even more active in removing trees as well as tackling hundreds of the trees that pine beetles infested in BC. He was also known for the great stump removal jobs that he did in the Merritt area as well as in the Interior of BC and the Okanagan.

Many of you reading this will also remember seeing John with his great friend Patches who was in charge. They were inseparable for many years.

Sports were very important to John and he took pleasure in playing baseball for years then fastball. He passed his love of sports on to his sons, sometimes coaching them as well as playing alongside them for a number of years. Curling was also one of the sports that John enjoyed and took part in, quite often going to the provincials with his teams.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing John will miss him but remain grateful for how he touched their lives with his kindness, compassion and helpfulness. Many had the privilege of calling him Dear, Dad, Grandpa, Brother, Uncle, Brother In-Law, Friend.

The family would like to thank the nurses, doctors, care aides, staff members and volunteers at Coquihalla-Gillis for the kindness, compassion, and care given to John during the two years that he was there. As well, thank you to Merritt Funeral Chapel for the kindness, compassion and support that was given to us.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honouring John’s memory by donating to the Recreation Department at Coquihalla-Gillis House. With your donation to the very active Recreation Department you’ll be benefiting the residents. CoquihallaGillis House 1699 Tutill Crt, Merritt BC V1K 1C6. 250378-3271

Larry Albert Shuter Sr. Sunrise: October 19, 1952 – Sunset: August 6, 2025

Our beloved Larry Albert Shuter Sr., born October 19, 1952, in Merritt, BC, journeyed onward to join the ancestors on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. He passed peacefully at Gillis House in Merritt, surrounded by his loving family. In his final days, Larry was visited by a steady stream of friends and relatives — all drawn together to express our love and gratitude for a good man – a kind man – a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend.

Known affectionately as “Papa”, Larry was a quiet, patient, and hard-working man. One of eight children born to the late Arthur and Lizzie Shuter, he was a devoted son and a loving brother. In his youth he was often found helping fill the family woodshed and freezer, in between memorable bouts of mischief with his cousins from Zoht, Spahomin, Springs, and Shulus.

Larry attended St. George’s School in Lytton, BC for a short time — a place he remembered for cricket races, digging up arrowheads on the old battlefield, and sharing rare treats like oranges with childhood friends. He later completed his education in Merritt before entering the workforce, hand logging alongside his father and older brother.

In 1972, Larry married his childhood sweetheart, Ann (née Ward). Their bond began early — nurtured by a shared love of adventure and family and cemented by a life lived side by side. As a young couple, they often spent time with nieces and nephews, fishing with family, and visiting relatives across the Nicola Valley. Eventually, they began their own family, raising three children: Angie, Bonnie, and Larry Jr. Their first home was a family cabin — once part of the Ward family’s Wagon Wheels fishing resort — tucked beside Clapperton Creek in Nicola, BC. They later moved to Zoht IR 4. With the help of friends and their own hard-earned skills, Larry and Ann built their home from the ground up — a true labor of love. Larry’s handiwork lives on throughout that home, including his final major project: a circular deck with benches around a willow tree, made especially for Ann to enjoy the summer breeze.

As a young father, Larry returned to school, attending Cariboo College in Kamloops to become a certified welder.

That training led to steady work in local mills — at Balco,

Remembering lives through shared meals, laughter, and cherished moments.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A23

Honouring lives that helped nurture growth and cultivate connections.

1690 Voght Street

Tolko, and Aspen Planers — where he earned a reputation as a dependable, skilled tradesman. Over time, he became a respected millwright and mentor, often arriving home with new tools “he just had to have” clanging in his lunchbox.

Loyal and reliable, Larry never hesitated to cover a shift, even the graveyard ones, always putting in the work to keep things running on schedule.

Summers sometimes saw him working at the Nicola Ranch, moving irrigation lines in the fields along the highway. After retiring in 2021, Larry embraced a slower pace, but he never stopped working. He spent time in the oil fields of Alberta and later partnered with Dean Barber on countless home and community projects. A jack-of-all-trades — millwright, welder, ranch hand, handyman — Papa could be counted on to show up quietly, do the work, and never seek the spotlight.

After long days at work, Larry still found time for his family and community. He coached his son’s tee-ball team, swam at Nicola Lake with his kids, and volunteered for various committees. He gave his time to SCHEP patrol, supported the Employee & Family Assistance Program, and served on the first Lower Nicola Indian Band Lands Committee and Dry Grad committees. Though he loved sports and as a younger man played on local baseball and bowling teams, his favorite place was always the land — hunting, fishing, and being outdoors.

One of Larry’s greatest joys was the annual fishing trip to the west coast of Vancouver Island with his son-in-law Clint and friends Dean and Harvey — a tradition filled with stories, laughter, and even the occasional fish. He enjoyed road trips and travel and was always up for hopping in his truck for a day of adventure. In his later years, Larry enjoyed a quieter life on Zoht IR 4.

Papa had the rare gift of seeing the good in everyone. A stranger, to him, was just a friend he hadn’t met yet. Even in his final days at Royal Inland Hospital and Gillis House, his humor, warmth, and that legendary Shuter stubbornness never left him. True to his nature, Larry took steps to make his final days — and the difficult days that would follow — easier on those he loved.

In the days after his passing, his family gathered for a heartfelt BBQ, celebrating his life in the way he would have loved most: surrounded by laughter, love, and good food. His ashes were spread at Zoht, near his childhood summer home and the people and the land he cherished.

Larry leaves behind many heavy hearts and countless cherished memories. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur Shuter and Lizzie Marshall, and by his siblings Francis, Willie, Leonard, Dale, and Veronica Shuter. He is survived by his beloved wife Ann; his children Angie Bain (Don),

PURITY FEED FARM GARDEN PET CENTRE

Bonnie LaBounty (Clint), and Larry Shuter Jr. (Dimitra); grandchildren Desiree Holmes, Dakota Holmes, Calum Bain, Jennifer LaBounty, Nicola LaBounty, Larry Shuter #3, and Riley Shuter; and great-grandchildren Kylea Reeve and Evelina Reeve. He is also survived by his siblings Lawrence and Mary Shuter, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

The family would like to thank Dr. Li at Vancouver General Hospital; the dedicated staff at Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre, Royal Inland Hospital, and Gillis House; and the Lower Nicola Indian Band. Special thanks go to those who supported Larry’s final arrangements and provided cultural care, including Rosalie Yazzie, Doreen Sterling, Maggie Shuter, Susan Manuel, Carleen Shumard, Jonas Manuel, Bruce Manuel, and Dean and Wendy Barber.

Above all, the family extends heartfelt gratitude to the countless friends and relatives who gathered with us to remember, grieve, and celebrate a good man — a kind man — a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend.

Larry’s final message to all of you, his family and friends: “It’s been good to know you.”

Ralph NelsonSmith

spent many a weekend either at a motorbike race or a figure skating competition supporting his kids.

Ralph loved the “bush” whether it was for work or play.

He took pride in the land and being part of the community.

He was a fishermen, hiker, camper, snowshoer and skier.

He enjoyed his fun travelling adventures with Edna. Ralph spent many nights listening to country music and dancing the night away with his friends at the Lower Nicola Community Hall. As a retired logger he was a talented woodworker with extraordinary creativity and patience.

His wisdom of the forest and values of kindness and hard work are passed onto his children Brian (Laurie), Lisa (Ray), his grandchildren Mat (Janessa), Megan (Liam), Ignatius and his great-grandchildren Bentley, Avery, Brixton. Ralph is predeceased by his mom Elizabeth, his dad Arthur, his sister Ellenor and daughter in law Susan.

Ralph was a great storyteller and loved to laugh and so he leaves behind The Loggers Will, I leave… To my family, my overdraft at the bank, maybe they can explain it.

To the junkman, all my machinery, he’s had his eye on it for years.

To the funeral coordinator, a special request six of my bill collectors for pallbearers, they’re used to carrying me.

And for the monument maker, set up a jig for this epitaph: “Here lies a logger who has properly met all his obligations.”

October 19th,1935 -August 18th, 2025

Ralph passed away the same way he lived his life, peacefully.

He was born in New Westminster BC on October 19th, 1935. When he was ten years old his Mom and Dad (Elizabeth and Arthur) with his sister Ellenor moved to the Princeton/ Nicola Valley area. The Nelson-Smith family made a home in Lower Nicola BC and Ralph and Ellenor attended school in Lower Nicola and Merritt. They were going to try to make a living at horse logging. How hard could it be? They knew about horses through farming in the Lower Mainland. It was a hard way to earn a living, and Ralph did not attend school long before he went into the bush, helping his family earn a living by logging. As a young man Ralph ventured out on his own as a logger. It was an incredibly hard journey starting out living in Lillooet in a four-wall shack. On his own, he bought his first team of horses for a total price of $312.00 in 1954.

Through hard work and sheer determination, he built his own logging company, the Ralph Nelson-Smith Logging Ltd. He also built a home and a family (a son Brian and daughter Lisa) with Colleen in Lower Nicola following his family roots. Dad

1-250-378-4432

Dona Edith Moses (nee Krause) October 7, 1948 to August 30, 2025 With heavy hearts but full memories, we announce the passing of our beloved mom and grandma, Dona Moses, on August 30, 2025. Dona was kind, friendly, and happiest when surrounded by family, proudly following every adventure of her children and grandchildren.

She is reunited with her beloved husband Jon, and we like to imagine the two of them already catching up, laughing, and keeping an eye on us from their favorite porch swing in the sky—alongside her parents Henry and Stella, and siblings Dean and Kathy, no doubt letting her boss them around once again.

Born and raised in Merritt, many will remember Dona from the

Big AA Market in the 70’s and 80’s, where lifelong friendships and great memories were made. She later left Merritt to explore new opportunities and passions before eventually returning home.

From a young age, Dona faced medical challenges with remarkable courage, always meeting them with positivity, determination, and a fighter’s spirit. She carried that strength right through to the very end.

Forever loved and deeply missed by her children Laine (Tammy) and Shantel (Rick); stepchildren Dale (Denise) and Darcy (Bev); grandchildren Brayden (Chelsea), Jared, Jorja (Brendan), and Karma; step-grandchildren Clayton, Jake, Branden, and Jem; siblings Barb, Judy, Marlien, Henry (Marlene), Dan, and Archie; and by countless nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

A small celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

“She leaves us with laughter in our hearts, stories on our lips, and the reminder to always find joy in the little things.”

Robert L. Moses Sr. October 6, 1951 September 19, 2024

One year after his journey to the Creator, we honour and remember Robert L. Moses Sr., a devoted Catholic, loving husband, father, grandfather, proud First Nations cowboy, athlete, and protector whose life was guided by faith, family, and the land.

Robert loved working and being on the land, hunting, fishing, and gathering; and passing these traditions on to his family. A champion team roper, he wore his black cowboy hat with pride and carried the spirit of the rodeo in his heart. His strength, protective nature, athleticism, and cultural values will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

He is survived by his wife, Verna Charters Moses; his children, Davis Moses, Robert Moses Jr., and Melissa Moses; his grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends.

A one-year memorial will be held on Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the family property on the Lower Nicola Indian Band, where a Catholic burial will take place to lay his ashes to rest with his headstone.

May his spirit continue its peaceful journey to the Creator.

Remembering lives that brought warmth and support to their communities.

Nicola Plumbing & Heating Locally owned & operated for over 40 yrs.

We service commercial, residential and light industrial

2064 Coutlee Avenue nicolaplumbingandheating.com Ph: 250-378-4943

email: nicplumb@telus.net

A24 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

1800 Garcia Street

250-378-9238

George Murray Neilson January 12, 1939 – July 28, 2025

Born in Brandon Hills, Manitoba, January 12th, 1939, and graduated to Heaven on July 28th, 2025. Pa moved to Merritt, B.C., in his twenties and made Merritt his home. Pa met his wife Marilyn and married in 1968. Pa enjoyed most sports, especially hockey and baseball. He helped with building the Merritt arena. He coached boys’ hockey. He spent twentyfive years coaching Merritt Minor Girls Softball and helped organize the different leagues in the community. He was proud to be called, “Coach!” Pa also enjoyed camping and fishing, and when spring arrived the family spent most of the weekends in the bush, excited to share all the new locations from his time as a loader-operator and building new roads. Murray was known as the “The Man with the Golden Arm”.

Murray also had a beautiful relationship with his Heavenly Father and was dedicated to praying for his family. He was also President of the Full Gospel Businessmen Association and was a member of the Full Gospel Tabernacle in Merritt, we thank him for our spiritual legacy. Pa had a passion and spent his retirement playing with his Koi and goldfish in his pond and restoring his farm equipment and antiques. Pa inspired his family by showing them how you could fix and restore anything.

A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just (Proverbs 13:22).

Murray had five beautiful children, and many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he was truly blessed. His oldest son Lee Stone and wife Sue, children Jason, Allisa, Charleen, Jarrod, and Sammi, and beautiful great grandchildren from Oregon USA. Oldest daughter Heather, wonderful husband, and beautiful children and great grandchildren from Oregon USA. Daughter Dr. Jonni Yeomans and husband Darrell, and their children Tyler, Abra, Ashton, and four beautiful great grandchildren from Kamloops. Daughter, Marilee Jackson, and her children Jacob, Isaac, and Abram, from Merritt. Daughter Brenda Lee (Sharon) and her children Kassandra, Kaleb, and great grandchild from Merritt. Stepson, Sam Roline and wife Susan from Merritt. Stepdaughter, Laura Roline, and sons Britt and Jared, and great grand children from Vernon. Stepdaughter, Sheila Roline, who predeceased dad, her children and great

In memory of those we’ve cared for, with hearts dedicated to health and healing.

grand children from Vancouver. Stepdaughter, Donna Roline, and her children Kristen, Heather and husband Angel, and two great grand children from Merritt.

“When Tomorrow Starts Without Me,” And I am not here to see, If the sun should rise and find your eyes, Filled with tears for me.

I wish so much you would not cry, The way you did today, While thinking of many things, We did not get to say.

I know how much you love me, As much as I love you, And each time you think of me, I know I will miss you too.

When tomorrow starts without me, Do not think we are apart, For every time you think of me, I am right here in your heart!

(A. H. Meadows, 2017).

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles us. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith (Hebrew 12:1-2) (NIV).

Thank you, Dad now in Glory cheering us on as we continue to run our race!

Your loving family .

Joel Gonzalez Mena Amanecer: July 13, 1949 – Atardecer August 1, 2025

With deep sadness in our hearts we announce the passing of Joel Gonzalez Mena on August 1st, 2025 when he was called home into God’s arms. A loving son, husband, father, brother, grandfather and friend.

Joel went to sleep and forgot to wake up.

Joel was born in Mexico City on July 13, 1949 to Marcial Mena and Mercedes Gonzalez. Raised on the family farm, he spent his youth milking cows, playing soccer and riding 1/4 horse match races for his father. In 1968 he followed his

older brothers to a lifetime in the thoroughbred racing industry as an accomplished jockey, trainer and later owner/breeder of thoroughbreds. He rode races in Mexico, California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Alberta. In 1977 he moved his tack to then Exhibition Park (Hastings Park) in Vancouver, BC and began the rest of his life. Meeting his wife Karen Mena (Murray) at the racetrack the two of them built a love and life together. Joel was a fierce competitor on the back of those thoroughbreds. He loved everything about being a jockey and was an exceptional athlete.

In 1992 the Mena’s embarked on a change and bought (along with Karen’s brother & wife) an old cattle ranch in Merritt, BC and transformed it into one of the province’s top thoroughbred breeding and boarding facilities, Can-A-Mex Farms. Joel was the Mex of Can-A-Mex. He loved the farm and all the hard work that came with it. Raising a family, good race horses, fencing, building, clearing, firewood gathering, long drives into the bush, cold cervezas and a bowl of cheezies with good friends on hot days. Joel followed thoroughbred racing closely, had favourite jockeys & horses to follow, cursed and cheered at them all. He had a grande sense of humour, was a serious prankster, always opened the door for a lady, loved a good fiesta, was fiercely loyal to all his familia and never had a bad word for anyone. Selling the farm in 2018 gave the Mena’s more time to travel to Mexico, be with family, adventures in the truck and trailer, enjoying good food and good times together. Joel was a daily walker and put on 5 km per day and loved to swim at the local pool where I’m sure he told countless stories to the hot tub/sauna crew. Joel liked to tinker on his truck and car, always keeping them in top condition. He enjoyed the classic car shows and was always on the lookout for his 67 Mustang fastback. I’m sure he’s driving one now. He loved a competitive game of cards, loud music, crazy mexican ringtone on his phone and spicy tacos. Did you know, that was his nickname: Taco!! Joel was so proud of his 2 sons Marcos and Joey and loved nothing more than to spend time with them when he could.

Joel will be deeply missed and is survived by his wife Karen Mena, his sons Marcos Francisco Mena (Shayla), Jose Joey Girard Mena, his brothers Paco, Memo (Sharon), Lalo (Becky) his sister Chata (Juan) his brother in law Doug Murray (Marcile) his in laws Gordon and Alice Murray. The extended families of his wife, his brothers, sisters and many, many nephews and nieces in Mexico, USA and Canada, and the hundreds of people that he knew from a lifetime in the thoroughbred racing industry. Joel was predeceased by his parents Marcial and Mercedes, his brother Enrique (Henry) his sister Andrea (Socorro) and his grandson Xavier Gonzalez Mena, who I know is wrapped up in his arms now, learning to speak Spanish and eat tacos together.

Joel lived a full and happy life and lived it on his own terms. No formal service by request. There will be a familia gathering in Mexico spring 2026.

Please raise a salute to a life well lived, well loved and celebrate a good man. In lieu of flowers consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in his memory.

Thank you to Merritt Funeral Chapel, Angela Texmo for your support, kindness and compassion. Special thank you to Pam and Neil Caine, Ala “Judy” Blanco, Francisco “Frank” Fuentes, and the many, many friends and family that have reached out with cards, messages, calls and surrounded us with love and support. You all know who you are and we thank you deeply. To the community of Merritt where we have called home for 33 years and created memories, tears, love and laughter. We thank you and embrace them all.

On nights when stars are hidden by clouds, never forget that they still shine!

Para el amor de mi vida Joel, te extranare por siempre, te amare profundamente, hasta el dia que estemos juntos de nuevo, con todo mi Amor, Pecas xoxo

Ross Gardner Sept. 19, 1945 - Sept. 29, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ross Gardner who left us September 29, 2025. He leaves to cherish his memory his wife Betty, daughter Geri (Shawn), grandchildren Brandon, Dustin, Alana, Colton, Kyle, brother Jim (Linda), and niece Sandi. He was predeceased by his daughter Lia on September 29, 2005. Also, predeceased by his parents Ken and Doris, brother Gerry, and nephew Ken. Ross was born in Merritt and spent much of his younger years on the family ranch before joining the Navy. He then joined the cowboy crew at Quilchena and met Betty (nee Shannon); they married October 21, 1967.

He spent his entire working life logging and cowboying.

Ross was happiest riding a good horse with his dogs along tending cattle.

Rest in peace cowboy! You will be forever missed.

As the eagle glides across the sky, may we remember the journey of those who have passed, for their legacy lives within us.

NICOLA VALLEY COMMUNITY JUSTICE SERVICES SOCIETY

1999 Garcia Street, Merritt, BC TEL: 250-378-5010

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A25

Celebrating lives that left a mark as unique as their style.

250-378-5217 #120-1700 Garcia Street Railyard Mall - Downtown Merritt Jackie had remained (temporarily) at home on

Dr. Robert Gerald Holmes

community outdoor events, ball tournaments, etc.

Through that initial exposure she began her community involvement and made lasting friendships. And she and Neil welcomed their baby boy, Dylan, now a pilot.

(Jackie was very proud!)

While living in the Nicola Valley, she enrolled at Thompson Rivers University and achieved her Bachelor of Arts degree. Throughout her school years Jackie’s artistic talents had become evident. She had a fine singing voice and this talent, her love of music, and interest in all things artistic led her to the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council. Never shy, possessing impressive energy and an outgoing nature Jackie organized many enjoyable events. She was the Art Gallery Director for a time and curated some great art shows. Jackie spent many fulfilling years in the Arts Council. Her signature achievement was leading the charge to enable acquisition of the community’s grand piano – an asset welcomed by both touring and local musicians.

Jackie was well travelled, by plane, ferry, and car.

She enjoyed planning and embarking on adventures near and far. She didn’t hesitate to pop in and visit all her dear friends along her way.

In 2019, Jackie moved to Vancouver Island, where she settled into a small community in Duncan, called Sungoma. She loved it there initially. She joined the Arts community and hosted family and friends on several occasions in her cozy surroundings and on her wide deck. Last April she made the decision to settle on Salt Spring Island. She had family and friends there too and had become involved in the community, singing and volunteering.

Despite her joyful expressions and accomplishments, Jackie had internal struggles over the decades and as time and life wore on they were an overwhelming force that simply wore her out. And eventually, finally, took her.

Jackie, and her vivacious spirit, will be well remembered and greatly missed.

August 4, 1935 September 20, 2025

to start up her own business. When she Jacalyn Grace Saltspring made the move to join Neil in Merritt, she brought with what was literally a vehicle to introduce herself to Stibbards her the community. For a couple of seasons her Lickety(“Jackie”) Split ice cream truck was a summertime fixture at many September 21, 1954 -August 16, 2025

Family and friends of Jackie are mourning her untimely passing at her home on Saltspring Island. She was inspiring, dynamic, and vibrant; and had a heart as big as all outdoors.

Jackie was predeceased by her mother Mary, father Jack, older sister Lynn, and older brother Bill. Other members of the family had gone in fairly recent times: aunts and uncles that she and her siblings were close to.

Thankfully, cousins are still here.

In addition to a legion of good friends ranging from Vancouver Island to the Nicola Valley and beyond (Australia, Europe) she leaves behind her loving son Dylan (father Neil), sisters Tracy, Wendy, Audrey, and brother Keith. She was also an enthusiastic and loving stepmom to Neil’s children and grandchildren.

Born in Westlock Alberta, Jackie lived in Quesnel and Fort St. John in her early years before her family moved to Saltspring Island, where she graduated from Gulf Islands Senior Secondary. Moving to Victoria she graduated from UVic’s teacher training/certification program. After earning her Teacher’s Certificate at UVic, Jackie landed her first full-time teaching job at a small school in Burton, a tiny community located on the Arrow Lakes south of Revelstoke. Out in the middle of nowhere, with no friends or relatives anywhere near, she did her best to make the most of it and made a couple of friendships that lasted over time.

While at UVic she met Neil Todd, a manager in the Fish and Wildlife Branch head office in downtown Victoria, and a romance ensued. Jackie and Neil eventually married, settling on Saltspring Island, In 1984, Jackie supported Neil in his decision to leave his government position and he moved to the Nicola Valley to start a contract with the Dept. of Fisheries and Oceans to operate the brand new Spius Creek Salmon Hatchery. Together they formed/ incorporated a company, where Jackie showed proficiency in accounting and running a business after she joined Neil.

It is with great sadness that we announce that Dr. Robert Gerald Holmes died peacefully at home on Saturday morning, 20 September, 2025 at the age of 90.

He was born in London, England on August 4th, 1935 and graduated from University of London’s St Mary’s Hospital Medical School in 1959. He practiced medicine in Uganda, England, Prince Rupert, BC, White Rock BC and finally settled in Merritt, B.C. in 1975. In Merritt, he was a partner in the Merritt Medical Clinic where he was a General Practitioner and practiced General Surgery at the Nicola Valley Hospital.

He was always proud to say that he delivered over 2000 babies.

He retired in 1997 following an illness and remained in the Nicola Valley until his death.

He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Helen Holmes, 5 children, and 14 grandchildren.

Ralph Hack June 27, 1934 - June 27, 2025

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Ralph Hack, on June 27 his 91st birthday.

Born in Murtin, County Durham, England, Ralph began his working life in the coal mines but decided at age 18 to join the Merchant Marines with the goal of eventually reaching Australia. However, when docked in the United States, Ralph left the ship and made his way to Canada, where he joined the Canadian Military and served with the Princess Patricia Canadian Light Infantry as a paratrooper.

While stationed in Germany in the 1950s, Ralph met Anita, whom he would marry and raise a family with. In 1958, after the birth of their fourth daughter, they immigrated to Canada, where Ralph began a long career in forestry, and they later welcomed three sons. Ralph worked his way up in the industry, becoming a Forest Ranger and spending many summers fighting fires before moving on to become the Woods Manager

for Aspen Planers, and later operating his own business, NV Silviculture. Ralph was a hard worker and a devoted family man throughout his life, passing those values on to his children and grandchildren. In 2016, he fulfilled his lifelong dream of visiting Australia with his longtime partner, Myrna.

Ralph had a great love and appreciation for the outdoors, the land, and for hunting to provide for his family. He also loved sports, especially soccer. He was instrumental in forming youth soccer leagues in both Vernon and Merritt, often loading the teams he coached into the family station wagon to travel to tournaments throughout the Okanagan. He himself played soccer well into his 70s and built lasting friendships on the pitch that endured throughout his life.

Ralph loved family get-togethers, music, dancing, and a good meal (especially lemon meringue pie), and he was always up for a pint of Guinness. Animals were also dear to him, and he had many “Geordie” stories to tell. His last pet, Redd Catt, continues to live with family members. Ralph was a proud member of the Royal Canadian Legion for over 50 years.

Ralph is survived by his brothers Arnold (Jean) and Clive (Lena), and sister Anne, as well as many nieces, nephews, and their families, all in England. He is also survived in Canada by his daughters Doris (Clark), Marion (JP), and Christine, and sons Peter (Jennifer), Robert (Sandy), and Clive.

Ralph was blessed with many grandchildren: Lori, Jennifer, Michael, Tadd, Corey, Shayne, Angelina, Jordan, Kaitlyn, Taryn, Benjamin, McKenna, Shawn, and Tlell; and greatgrandchildren Skyla, Luke, Maddy, Logan, Kingston, Carson, Bianca, Ashley, Gavin, Mason, Owen, Oaklen, Lucjan, Bree, Iliasha, and Tekara; as well as one great-great-grandchild, Atticus. Ralph was predeceased by his daughter Shirley (Vic), sister Molly (England), and great-granddaughters Celena and Rayna. The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Gillis House for their exceptional care, devotion, and compassion, as well as to Dr. T. Watts for her ongoing support.

Alan Mettrick May 30, 1944 - May 26, 2025

Alan passed away in Mission, B.C. on May 26, 2025. He resided in New Westminster and was born in England.

Many blessings and cherished memories to all that knew him.

Honouring the journey of lives well-lived and the memories made along the way. www.murraygmmerritt.com

2049 Nicola Avenue, Merritt 1-250-378-9255 1-888-378-9255

A26 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

HONOURING THE SPECIAL MEMORIES of gathering around the table, sharing meals, and creating lasting moments together.

A tribute to those who brought warmth, love, and flavour to every meal.

Lorraine Lorraine was brave and strong, smart and beautiful, funny and loved. She always saw the positive and rarely complained Yvonne about struggles in her life. Her greatest love, other than the she had for her own children, was the love she had for all Marie James love her grandchildren. They were the highlight of her later years cooking up turkey or salmon dinners or making soups.

December 12, 1940 September 1, 2025

Lorraine Yvonne Marie James (Schaab) passed away peacefully in Merritt on the evening of September 1, 2025 with family and friends nearby. Lorraine is survived by her children Lynnette Marklund (James) and Brian James, and grandchildren Ryan Marklund, Kendra Marklund, Brandon James, Emily James, and Myla James. Lorraine is also survived by siblings Irene Marchant (Schaab), Wayne Schaab, and Richard Schaab. Lorraine is predeceased by her husband, Victor James, and siblings Sharon Strachan (Schaab) and David Schaab.

Lorraine was born and raised in Penticton, B.C., where she worked at the concession at the arena during her high school years. Following graduation, Lorraine attended post secondary school to attain her teaching credentials. She then moved to Merritt where she remained for the duration of her teaching career.

Family activities while raising her children consisted of camping at Plateau Lake, attending swimming lessons and swim club sessions for her children, and time spent at various arenas to watch her son’s hockey games. Lorraine loved the Merritt outdoor pool and her home pool. She would often attend the Merritt pool to take part in the water aerobics classes and to swim laps. She loved playing games with her family and friends. She would often play cards or board games such as Monopoly with her grandchildren. She was dedicated to playing Bridge with her friends for many years and then later developed a joy for the game of Mahjong. Lorraine also had a love for scrapbooking and spent a lot of her time making all her grandchildren beautiful photo albums. Lorraine always made Christmas a special, magical time of year for her loved ones with decorations, gifts, games, good food, and special ornaments made for her grandchildren. Summer was often a wonderful opportunity for Lorraine to spend quality time connecting with her brothers and sisters. Lorraine was an amazing cook. In her early years, she and her husband always had a garden and Lorraine was often in the kitchen canning vegetables. Favourite foods that everyone loved were her delicious bran muffins with chocolate chips, rhubarb pies, rouladen, homemade soups, ham pastries, and nanaimo bars.

She was often found in the kitchen with her brother, David,

2088 Quilchena Avenue Ph: 250-378-5877

and she was devoted to spending as much time as she could with them.

Lorraine’s family will miss her dearly. She will be forever loved and remembered. We will honor Lorraine’s wish to have a small family graveside service. Family sends a heartfelt thank you to everyone that cared for Lorraine during her time at the Florentine and at Gillis House.

Sandra Ethel Sherwin December 11, 1947 - August 28, 2025

Mrs. Sandra Ethel Sherwin passed away peacefully in Kamloops on August 28th at age of 77 years.

She was born on December 11th, 1947.

Survived by her loving husband Roy Sherwin of Merritt, B.C., daughter-in-law Wendy Sherwin Briscoe and grandson Conner Sherwin of Chilliwack, B.C., brother Carl Ulriksen, Sisters Pauline (Dennis) Sherwin, Helene Brown and many nieces and nephews that loved her deeply.

Sandra is predeceased by her 2 sons Devin and Troy.

No formal service will be held by her request.

Joyce Arcand March 28, 1948 - August 21, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved sister, Joyce Arcand, on August 21, 2025. Joyce was a devoted sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and kindness touched all who knew her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by her family and friends.

250-378-5564 Railyard Mall

William (Bill) Cressy

Sandra Fiddick

December 17, 1936 September 29, 2025

December 21, 1940 - October 1, 2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our Father, William (Bill) Cressy. Dad passed away peacefully, on the morning of September 29th, 2025 surrounded by his loving family and under the care of the wonderful staff at the Rocky Mountain Village long term care facility in Fernie, B.C. Born to George and Violet Cressy on December 17th, 1936 in Hamilton, Ontario, Bill was just 9 years old when the family made the move across the country to Merritt B.C. where he began his lifelong love affair with the beautiful Nicola Valley.

At the tender age of 16, Bill met Denise Vaillancourt, the love of his life, constant companion and future mother of his children. Inseparable from the start, Bill and Denise were married at 21 years of age and began their wonderful life together as husband and wife.

Bill was a devoted husband to Denise, a loving father to his two sons, Clifford and David and a loyal friend to so many in the Nicola Valley. His steadfast ways, easy manner and warm sense of humor will be missed by so many. He took great pride in the Cressy family name, it’s presence and contributions to Merritt and the Nicola Valley and it’s place in her history. He loved the outdoors and could often be found honing his fishing skills on one of the local lakes or exploring the area with Mom in one of the many RVs they owned over the years.

Predeceased by his parents, George and Violet, and his brothers Ron and George Jr. Bill is survived by Denise, his loving wife of 67 years, his sons and daughters in law, Clifford (Martha) and David (Jill), his grandchildren, Ryan, Scott, Brittney, Satara and Jake, two great grandchildren, Ayden and Oriah and his younger sister Lorraine (Macdonald). Bill is also survived by his many nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews that he loved dearly and was so proud to just be their Uncle Bill.

A celebration of Dad’s life will be held in Merritt at a future date as yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers we ask that you make a donation to the Canadian Heart and Stroke Foundation if you so desire “Godspeed and Rest in Peace Dad, we love you”

As we remember and celebrate those who have touched our lives, we honour the joy, kindness, and warmth their SMILES brought to the world.

It is with great sadness we announce, the unexpected passing of Sandra Fiddick, 84, of Merritt, BC, on October 1, 2025. She was born on December 21, 1940, in Jasper, Alberta, to Edith and Sam Herron.

After graduating from high school in Kitimat, Sandra worked in an office in Vancouver for a short time. In September 1960, she began studying nursing at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops.

In 1963, Sandra met and married Dale Leslie Fiddick.

They wed on the day of her nursing graduation, beginning a life of adventure together. Their journey started in Salt Air on Vancouver Island, the first of many communities they would call home throughout British Columbia.

Sandra and Dale raised four children — Scott, Thea, Paul, and Brad. Sandra loved her nursing career, and in her later years became a nurse practitioner. She worked in various nursing stations in Canada, such as Baffin Island, Klemtu, and Anahim Lake. Sandra was widowed on July 26, 1993, after the passing of Dale.

Sandra through her nursing work in Indigenous communities, met Noel Jonathan Haynes. The two married on October 26, 1996, in Cyprus. Sandra embraced retirement fully in 2003. She and Noel built a bison ranch at Allie Lake, where family and friends often gathered. In her later years, Sandra was active in her church and led a women’s Bible study.

She cherished time spent with her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren and found great joy in family gatherings with both the Fiddick and Haynes families. Sandra is survived by her husband, Noel Haynes; her children, Scott, Thea, Paul, and Brad; as well as numerous grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Donations in lieu of flowers may be made to Seeds of Hope Ministry that supports children orphaned due to aids. To donate online please go to https://seedsofhopecm.com/take-action/ general-donation/ Or donations can be mailed to Seeds of Hope #101B-43869 Progress Way, Chilliwack BC V2R 0E6, Canada.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A27

Merritt Funeral Chapel Celebrating each life like no other

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC

Remembering the unique lives that have been lived

Local & Caring. Proudly supporting our community since 1929.

Ted Kampa

Dale Charters

September 27, 1930 September 28, 2025

October 6, 2025

Ted Kampa passed away Sunday, September 28, 2025, in Kelowna, BC, the day after enjoying his 95th birthday celebrations with his family.

Ted was born in Heidelberg, Germany, where he lived and worked in his family’s restaurant in the shadow of Heidelberg Castle. In 1955, Ted travelled to Canada with some friends, and they made their way across the country, from Montreal to Fort Erie and finally west until his car broke down in Penticton.

After several odd jobs to earn car repair money, Ted became an accountant at Penticton General Hospital. While there, Ted met a wonderful nurse, Lorretta Ruth, and the two were married on November 9th, 1957.

After the birth of their first child, Kathy, they moved to Merritt when Ted was named Administrator of Merritt Hospital. There, two more children were added to the family: Marianne and Kurt. Ted’s influence on health care in the region contributed to the addition of many important and much needed facilities, which are still vital in the community today.

Upon his retirement in 1994, the BC Minister of Health issued a commendation noting: “It is through your vision, leadership and determination that the Nicola Valley now enjoys one of the most effective and efficient health care delivery systems of any small community in British Columbia”.

While living in Merritt, Ted was an active volunteer in many aspects of the city, from Kinsmen to sports to the arts. His main focus was being a dedicated participant in the Rotary Club, a commitment that continued when he and Lorretta made the move to the Okanagan in 2004. While in West Kelowna, they were active in Our Lady of Lourdes Church and contributed to many worthy causes, including the Peachland Rotary Club for many years.

Lorretta and Ted were proud of their children’s accomplishments and were especially delighted to become grandparents where he was a doting Papa. Ted was predeceased in 2020 by Lorretta, the love of his life and wife of 63 years (they fondly referred to each other as “Honski”). Ted is survived by his children Kathy (Michael) Conway, Marianne (Glen) Auch, and Kurt (Lisette) Kampa; and his grandchildren Jay Stevenson, Sean Stevenson, Emily (James) Broddley, Spencer Auch, Max Westenberg and Finn (Israel) Morehead.

A funeral mass service is scheduled at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in West Kelowna on Thursday, October 2, 2025, 4:00 p.m. PT. Family and friends are also invited to view this service by visiting his online obituary at www. providencefuneralhomes.com.

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dale Charters, who entered into rest in Lower Nicola, BC, on October 6, 2025, at the age of 70 years.

He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Pat Charters, daughter Jessica (Charters) Reese of Lower Nicola, BC, son Joe Charters of Lower Nicola, BC, grandchildren Travis, Lane, and Marissa, great-grandchild Mya, brother Darrell Charters, and sisters Carrie and Cindy, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Dale was predeceased by his parents and brother Gerald.

Born and raised in Merritt, Dale spent his entire life in the community he loved. He met his wife Pat here, where they raised their two children, Jessica and Joe. Dale worked at Tolko Industries for 43 years, beginning at the age of 18 and remaining there until its closure in 2016. He had a deep appreciation for the outdoors, especially in the spring, and spent the past 20 years living in Lower Nicola, where he enjoyed the beauty and peace of the area.

Maynard Dahlseide October 11, 1941October 14, 2025

It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, dad, and grandpa, Maynard Dahlseide, on October 14, 2025, in Merritt, BC. Maynard was the life of every gathering — always ready for a good laugh and never one to miss cocktail hour. Together with his devoted wife and soulmate Lila, he embraced life to the fullest, traveling and camping throughout beautiful British Columbia, Western United States and anywhere else the road would take them.

Maynard spent most of his career working in the airline industry and retired from Air Canada in 2004, after moving to Richmond in 1991. True to his small-town roots, he often joked that he didn’t drive into the “big city” of Vancouver for the first three years after moving to the coast — a big change for someone whose largest hometown before that had been Fort St. John.

He will be dearly missed by his loving wife Lila, their children Cammy (Dale), Troy (Lisa), and Shelly (Murray), and his cherished grandchildren Tory (Hannah), Jared (Mary), Logan (Ethan), and Danica. Maynard is also survived by his siblings Hazel, Sheila, and Rick (Jacquie), along with many extended family and friends who loved him deeply.

Maynard’s sense of humor, smile, warmth, and love for life will be remembered always.

Beverly June Ware/Woods (Hendy) June 27, 1930 - October 11, 2025

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of long time Merritt resident Beverly Ware/Woods (Hendy) on Saturday, October 11, 2025. She made it to the impressive age of 95.

Bev was born on June 27, 1930 in Kamloops BC. The Hendy family resided in Spences Bridge until Bev was 8 and then moved to Merritt where she spent her remaining 87 years.

Mom and Gramma were Bev’s main titles in her lifetime, but she lived and provided for her family in many capacities over the years. Bev was probably best known for her time at The Corner Market on Coldwater Ave, where her partner Chuck and brother Phillip owned and operated the little corner store from 1980 until they sold it in 1989 and bought the Lower Nicola Trailer Park. She remained at the park until retirement in 1995. She also spoke of her times as a cashier at Overwaitea, in the kitchen at the NV Gen. Hospital and cooking at The Valnic, Granny’s Kitchen and Mr. Mikes.

Bev was a lover of dogs, music and dancing, and her garden.

She always enjoyed having dinners with her family. She was a sewing queen, a knitter of sweaters, a long time member of the Legion, the Old Time Fiddlers Square Dancers, she league bowled, floor curled at the Senior Center and in her youth played softball. We also have a picture of her playing donkey basketball, and even though we have no idea what it’s all about, it looked like a great time was being had by all. Bev always enjoyed walking with the ladies of Lower Nicola and travelling with friends and family, which she did whenever the opportunity presented itself.

It is incredibly difficult to fit 95 years of such a tenacious woman into a couple of paragraphs.

Bev is Mother to Karen (Darrel) Schafer, Gerry Ware, Kellie Lawrence and Michelle (Joel) Coulombe. She is Gramma (Gma) to Gitane and Devin Coulombe, Susan, Joann and Anna-Marie Ware and Justin, Katrina and Krysta Lawrence.

She is also a Great and Great Great Gramma, she is an Aunt, a Great Aunt and a Great Great Aunt too. She has many extended family members as well.

Bev was predeceased by her partner Chuck Woods (1999), her son Brent Woods (1997), her daughter Terry Ware (1964) and siblings Joyce Mynott, Phillip and Melville Hendy. We pray she is now with all those that she loved that went before her, including her dogs, Tessa and Oreo.

For everyone that had the occasion to care for Bev (Bevy) at Gillis House during her stay, it was apparent that she was well loved by many. Thank you, you know who you are. Please know everything you did and do is appreciated and will be remembered.

If you have a story or a picture to share about Bev, please do: www.merrittfuneralchapel.com

Concetta Teresa D’alessandro (Toriano) October 10, 1945 October 19, 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Concetta D’alessandro, who entered into rest on October 19, 2025 in Merritt, B.C. at the age of 80 years.

Concetta will be deeply missed by her husband Gaetano D’alessandro, after 61 years of marriage; Daughter Maria (Kim); Sons, Nicole and Guido of Merritt, B.C; Brother In Law Pat D’alessandro (Ankie) of Merritt, B.C.; Grandkids, Roberto, Sabine, Cassandra, Graham, Samantha Jo; Great Grandkids, Brody, Sophia and Kaiden; her Sisters, Nicolette and Teresa of Italy and many more family members in Italy and USA, plus many friends from all over.

Concetta was predeceased by her parents Guido and Victoria Toriano of Valafonsina Italy and her son Guiseppe D’alessandro of Merritt, B.C. in 2022.

She has left a tremendous hole in so many lives, more love then she could ever have known and she will never be forgotten.

“Until we meet again,” with prayers that she rests in everlasting peace.

At this time, we extend a warm and heartfelt thanks to Gillis House and the hospital in Merritt, B.C., and to those who have been supporting our family during this difficult time. We are deeply touched by all the expressions of love from everyone.

A celebration to honour her wonderful soul will be November 8, 2025, at the Sacred Heart Church, 2302 Jackson Ave, Merritt, BC, at 11 AM for family and friends of family.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Merritt Diabetes Clinic. 3451 Voght Street

A28 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

HONOURING LIVES REMEMBERED At Ska-Lu-La Workshop, we celebrate the memories of those who shaped our community.

Together, we cherish their legacies and continue their spirit of giving.

Ska-Lu-La Workshop 1775 COLDWATER AVE, MERRITT, BC V1K 1B8 Anthony Noel Price 1977- 2025

With broken hearts, the Price family must announce the passing of our son, brother, uncle and friend. Anthony Noel Price. He was deeply loved by his family: his parents Lyn and Sandy Price, sister Alicia (Ben) and brothers Matthew and Mark Price (Chloe, Bryn, Alba), his grandmother, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins in BC, AB and Wales.

Anthony was an artist who loved painting; he had great taste in music and always had a favourite new song or album to recommend. He was a decorated athlete in his youth, particularly in track and field and played rugby for the Comox Kickers as an adult. He was a sports fan who loved basketball and had a real soft spot for the Philadelphia Eagles. He could be an absolute hoot, and many laughter-filled Christmas Eve game nights are being fondly remembered. Anthony was a complex man who succumbed to an accidental overdose after a long battle with his mental health. We share this information to eliminate the shame and stigma related to addiction. He was worthy of love and dignity and was, and is, loved by us deeply. Anthony wanted more for himself, but his ambition did not always come to fruition in his all-too-short life. In his honour, please celebrate his spirit, creativity, character, sense of humour, and smile. Anthony leaves behind loved ones who will carry him in their hearts forever.

To our family, friends, and communities, we extend our deepest gratitude for your love, support and compassion. Your condolences and stories about Anthony have been a balm to our grief.

We wish to thank the RCMP and Victim’s Services for their empathy, kindness and assistance.

Finally, we thank Angela Texmo from the Merritt Funeral Chapel for guiding us through this incredible loss with such care and clarity.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Nicola Valley Food Bank and The Soup Bowl, St. Michael’s, Merritt, in Anthony’s name.

Debbie Mann December 7, 1952 – November 2, 2025

On November 2, 2025, with her loving daughter by her side, Debbie Mann passed away peacefully at the Marjorie Willoughby Hospice in Kamloops, BC. Debbie was predeceased by her beloved son Clayton Mann, her parents Bill and Jean Allsopp, and her brother Gordon Allsopp. She will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Teela-Dawn Mann, her sister Wendy Flanagan (Patrick), and her brother Arnie Smith (Donna), as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Born on December 7, 1952, in Burnaby, BC, Debbie spent most of her adult life in Merritt, BC. She worked for many years as a lunchtime supervisor at local elementary schools, where she took great joy in watching the children grow and succeed—always proud of them as if they were her own.

Debbie will be fondly remembered for her famous samosas, her kind and generous spirit, and her lifelong love of animals.

A Celebration of Life will be held on March 28, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Crossroads Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Debbie’s memory may be made to the Marjorie Willoughby Hospice in Kamloops.

Judith “Judy” Fischer March 8, 1950 October 25, 2025

Judith “Judy” Fischer of Merritt, B.C., passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025, at Royal Inland Hospital in Kamloops. She was predeceased by her spouse, Siegfried; her parents, Mike and June Garay; and her sister, Pat. Judy will be lovingly remembered by her daughter, Christine (Breck); her sons, Darryl and Tim; along with extended family and friends. Born in Trail B.C., she spent most of her adult life in Merritt, working in a variety of jobs and was known for her warm smile and sense of humor. Judy also took great pride in volunteering with the Merritt Lions Club and assisting others with their taxes. She will be fondly remembered for her kindness, generous spirit, and love of animals.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Nicola Valley Health Centre and Royal Inland Hospital, with special appreciation to Katrina (ICU/RN).

A private service will be held by the family.

Online condolences may be shared at DrakeCremation.com

Evelyn Smyth December 14, 2025

Evelyn Smyth passed away peacefully on December 14, 2025.

She is survived by her husband, three children and cherished grandchildren. The family will gather for a celebration of her life in the spring.

In place of flowers, donations may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Society of British Columbia.

The family would also like to thank the staff at the Merritt Hospital and Kamloops Hospital for the excellent care Evelyn received.

Barbara Noreen Alexander July 13, 1932 ~ December 6, 2025

Barbara Noreen Alexander (nee Blight) of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully of natural causes at Kamloops Seniors Village on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the age of 93 years.

Barb is remembered and sadly missed by her son, Greg (Carole Leroux); grandson, Cody; granddaughter, Laura Steel (Tyson); step-grandson, Jacob Blakely (Josh Davis); step-granddaughter, Anne Blakely-Barloco (Wayne Barloco); five great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Joan Alexander; sisterin-law, Carol Fraser (Casey Wynker); and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara was predeceased by her loving husband Don, sons Jack and Bruce; sister Joyce Fraser, brother-in-law, Doug and son John; brother-in-law, Jack, wife Barbara and sons David & Jeff; sister-in-law, Jill Huffman and husband Ray; brother-inlaw Bob Alexander and daughter Leslie.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Balzac in the spring of 2026. Condolences may be forwarded through www. drakecremation.com.

Erin Honor Bailey Zimmerman April 8, 1969 ~ November 11, 2025

It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Erin Zimmerman, who left this world on November 11, 2025, at Nicola Valley Hospital in Merritt, BC, surrounded by her devoted family.

Erin was born on April 8, 1969, and raised in Richmond, BC, a place that always held a special place in her heart. From an early age, she was known for her big personality, strong spirit, and deep love for those around her.

Above all else, Erin cherished her family. She was a devoted and loving mother to her two children, Tyler and Jessica, who were the pride and joy of her life. Her love for them was unwavering, and her guidance and strength will continue to live on through them.

Erin found happiness in life’s simple and meaningful moments—sharing meals she lovingly prepared, spending time with friends, and caring for the animals she adored. Her love for animals, especially her horses, brought her peace and joy and reflected her spirited soul.

She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, bold strength, and the deep love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Erin touched many lives, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her.

Erin’s memory will live on in the hearts of her children, family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

Jack Brabant March 15, 1945 ~ November 5, 2025

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Brabant on November 5, 2025, in Merritt, British Columbia.

Born in Hearst, Ontario, Jack relocated to Merritt in 1969.

He quickly made the Nicola Valley his home, remaining a part of the community for 56 years until his passing.

Jack was a man of simple pleasures and deep interests. He was a fervent supporter of hockey, always cheering loudly for Team Canada and his beloved Montreal Canadiens. He found joy in playing his guitar whenever he could, trying his luck with “scratches,” and spending time reminiscing about or watching the pursuit of gold mining.

Jack was predeceased by his older sister and a younger brother. He is survived by his sons, his youngest brother, and his youngest sister. His stories and support will be missed by those who knew him and shared their lives with him.

Flora Constance Pieroway (Connie) February 18, 1963 ~ December 6, 2025

Deeply saddened and with a heavy heart we share the passing of our beloved sister Flora Constance Pieroway. Flora passed away peacefully Saturday, December 6, in Merrit, B.C. Born and raised in Newfoundland Flora lived in western Canada for the past twenty years where she studied and worked as a nurse assistant in elderly care in the Okanagan region. A natural care giver, in recent years she worked bravely through the Covid 19 pandemic and natural disasters in her town.

She is fondly remembered by patients and families for bestowing comfort, calm and gentleness to attentive care, with a sense of humor. We will remember her fondness for adopting stray cats, sharing her political views and her distinctive laughter.

Flora lived with early onset Alzheimer’s disease the past few years and met considerable challenges in her daily life. May she rest in peace.

She is survived by siblings Roy Pieroway (Judy-Dec) Calgary Alt, Shirley White (John – Dec) Pennsylvania, USA, Jim Pieroway, Stephenville Crossing NL, Carolyn Pieroway, Tokyo, Japan, DJ Pieroway (Mark Gleeson) Wagga Wagga, Australia, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to our family.

Memorial services are planned for summer when family can gather in NL and BC.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | A29

Sylvia Marion Irving

Roger Galon December 15, 2025

his father, with the support of his loving spouse of 67 years,

work weeks and much sacrifice and hard work, Curtis Curtis Frederic George 7-day and Julie persevered to build a successful life and family in Merritt. Julie is remembered as a nurturing mom, keen FOX & Julia (Julie) swimmer and curler, and for baking great lemon pies. Curtis, with a sharp memory and quick wit, Verona FOX (nee Balogh) anwasavidknownreaderfor blessed his passionate and fiercely defended alternate viewpoints to most opinions coming his way. During their retirement years, Julie and Curtis enjoyed travel to warm foreign locales and each year spent many RV months soaking up the Arizona sunshine. In their final years, Curtis devoted long hours to supporting the love of his life through her time of need at Gillis House.

Heartfelt thanks to the professional and caring staff at Nicola Valley Hospital and at Gillis House for their exemplary care through Curtis and Julie’s final weeks and hours. In memory of the Foxes, please consider a donation to Gillis House, Nicola Valley Hospital, or research programs at cancer.ca.

June 25, 1934 - Dec. 21, 2025

Sylvia Marion Irving passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at Kelowna General Hospital, at the age of 91. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Irving, to whom she was married for 60 years.

Sylvia was born on June 25, 1934, in The Pas, Manitoba. She later grew up in Victoria, BC before moving with her parents to Merritt, BC, where she would build a life filled with love, family, and community. It was in Merritt that Sylvia met Bob, and together they raised their family. Sylvia had a deep love for her pugs (Buddah & Koko) and especially enjoyed taking them for walks, a simple joy that brought her great happiness.

In 2004, Sylvia and Bob moved to Kelowna, where they continued to enjoy life together. For more than 30 years, they spent their winters travelling south to Palm Springs, creating countless treasured memories. When those trips came to an end, they found new adventures on casino bus tours to Washington St. Sylvia also loved baking for her family and friends, with her raisin squares being a particular favourite.

She took great pride in her flower garden, where carnations— her favourite—always held a special place.

Above all, Sylvia was a caring and selfless woman who consistently put others before herself. She will be lovingly remembered by her children Brett (Carol), Alan (Joan), Sharon, and Rosanne; her grandchildren Alisha, Nikki, and Michael; and her great-grandchild Rikki.

Sylvia will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her, and her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of her family forever.

Family and friends will each honour her in their own ways, as no formal service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Central Okanagan Food Bank or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Mr. Roger Galon of Gainsborough, beloved husband of Sandra, passed away peacefully at the Galloway Health Centre in Oxbow, SK, on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the age of 81.

Roger is survived by his wife, Sandra of Gainsborough, SK; four children: Carrie Moore (Jeffrey) of Oxbow, whose children are Raine, Samantha, and Mitchell; Terry McCulloch (David) of Gainsborough, SK, whose children are Natasha and Sheri Ann; Perry Galon (Shannon) of Fox Valley, SK, whose children are Cassandra, Brittany, Jade, Mason, Dominic, and Shelby; and Garry Galon (Corrine) of Armstrong, BC, whose children are Trenton and Gavin. He is also survived by his siblings, Arlene Capiak (Carl) of Morden and Allan Galon (Carol) of Marathon, ON. Roger was predeceased by his parents, John and Kathleen Galon; his stepfather, Albert; his brother, Vernon; sisters-inlaw Joyce and Carol; brother-in-law Carl; nephew Dwayne; and great-grandson Matthew.

Roger was the third of four children and grew up in Fort William (Thunder Bay), Ontario. He married the love of his life, Sandra, on October 31, 1964, and together they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout his life, Roger worked in road construction and mining, eventually retiring from Highland Valley Copper in Logan Lake, BC. In retirement, Roger enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He especially treasured playing chess with his great-grandson Emmett. Roger also proudly served on the council of Gainsborough for many years, contributing to his community with dedication and care.He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Pamela-Lee Ann Jarvis December tnFrederic emwGeorge odnFOX, E eraC htlaeH yellaV a lociN16,e2025 hT Long time Merritt residents Curtis age 89, and Julia (Julie) Verona FOX (nee Balogh), age 87, sesiar taht ytirahc deretsiger a si noitadnuoF passed away November 26, 2025 and December 7, 2025.

Curtis and Julie exchanged marriage Penticton, .yvows ellaatV alocBC iN eh t ni erAnn aC Jarvis, htlaage eH45,rodaughter f sdnofufDennis Pamela-Lee February 14, 1958 and settled in Merritt in 1961 where they McDonald and Theresa Bodnariuk, passed away the night of raised their three daughters. Curtis and Julie are survived by December 16, 2025. She was an extremely warm and kind Debbie (Ken), Cindy (Paul) , Tammy (Bart), grandchildren tnem piuqE gnlove ivaand S-compassion efiL to everyone within individual, showing Lisa and Matt , Curtis’ siblings Karen and Keith (Delores), and the community of Merritt.

Julie’s sisters Violet, Shirley, and Sylvia (Don). seda rgispsurvived U ytby iliher casixFchildren, her father, her Pamela Jarvis Curtis entered the world March 21, 1936 shortly after his one sibling, as well as many extended family members. Her young mother Grace (Stevenson) endured her first labour legacy lives on through them and all who knew her. aboard a CPR “speeder” transporting her from home in Claire, A public memorial service will take place at 10 am on Saskatchewan to the doctor in nearby Wadena. Son of Alfred Frederic Fox, Curtis was predeceased by sister Faye. Julie was Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Merritt Civic Center. We invite born April 10, 1938 at Lethbridge, Alberta to parents Bert and all family and friends who wish to pay their last respects to Julia (nee Radi) Balogh and is predeceased by brother-in-laws attend. There will be a guest book where you may share any thoughts, memories or comments of Pam with the family.

Julius and Ray. A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the Jarvis A shift supervisor at Craigmont Mines, and a well known carpenter and respected building contractor until 1993, Curtis family in their time of need. The go fund me will remain active had a hand in the construction or renovation of many Merritt should anyone still wish to donate.

We will forever hold Pam in our hearts. homes and businesses. Although Curtis’ formative decades in Memories and condolences may be shared at www.

Cawston were economically tough and marred by the loss of merrittfuneralchapel.com

Donations of $20 or more are eligible for a tax receipt.

Building a healthier tomorrow in honour of the lives that shaped our today.

PLEASE SCAN TO DONATE

Nicola Valley Health Care ENDOWMENT FOUNDATION

250-315-1832 • PO Box 1423, Merritt BC V1K 1B8

Visit our website www.nvhcef.com to find out how we work to enhance Health Care in the Nicola Valley.

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on all our fundraising efforts.

A30 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

Your Spirit I know that no matter what You will always be with me.

When life separates us I’ll know it is only your soul Saying goodbye to your body But your spirit will be with me always.

When I see a bird chirping on a nearby branch I will know it is you singing to me.

When a butterfly brushes gently by me so care freely I will know it is you assuring me you are free from pain.

When the gentle fragrance of a flower catches my attention I will know it is you reminding me To appreciate the simple things in life.

When the sun shining through my window awakens me I will feel the warmth of your love.

When I hear the rain pitter patter against my window sill I will hear your words of wisdom And will remember what you taught me so well’ That without rain trees cannot grow Without rain flowers cannot bloom Without life’s challenges I cannot grow strong.

When I look out to the sea I will think of your endless love for your family.

When I think of mountains, their majesty and magnificence I will think of your courage for your country.

No matter where I am Your spirit will be beside me For I know that no matter what You will always be with me.

by Tram-Tiara T. Von Reichenbach

NICOLA VALLEY

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 31

SPORTS

CENTS OPEN UP NEW YEAR WITH A BANG A pair of wins to start 2026 has the junior Centennials above .500 in the KIJHL standings. faced in the win.

JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald.com

The new year has been good to the Merritt Centennials, who kicked off January with back-to-back wins over the Sicamous Eagles.

January 2, 2026 - Merritt Centennials 8, Sicamous Eagles 3 The first two games of 2026 gave the Cents a chance to pull away from the division rival Eagles, who entered the new year just one spot back of the Cents in the Bill Olhausen division.

Back at Nicola Valley Memorial Arena for the first time in almost two weeks on Jan. 2, the Cents and the Eagles split the opening frame with two goals apiece, with Merritt’s coming off the sticks of Evan Thachuk and Troy Horn.

Sicamous took the lead in the second period before Merritt goaltender Sam Saskiw locked it down for the final 20 minutes, allowing his team to score six unanswered goals for a final score of 8-3.

The final tally came from Merritt’s own Cooper Harrington, who found a late rebound for his first goal in his second season with the Centennials.

Saskiw fought off 25 of the 28 shots he

January 3, 2026 - Merritt Centennials 4, Sicamous Eagles 3 (SO)

GOT SPORTS? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

KIJHL STANDINGS to Jan. 6 BILL OHLHAUSEN DIVISION

Team

GP W L OTL SOL PCT

PTS

Revelstoke Princeton Kelowna Merritt Sicamous Osoyoos

27 20 5 29 20 7 28 19 7 29 15 11 28 9 16 26 8 17

42 42 40 33 21 17

0 0 1 2 2 1

2 0.778 2 0.724 1 0.714 1 0.569 1 0.375 0 0.327

Taking the team bus to Sicamous the following day for the tail end of a back-to-back, the Cents managed to take the lead three separate times in a game that eventually needed a shootout.

Merritt’s goals came off the sticks of Gairen Bona, Ryker Swanson and Travis Langlois, with the road team peppering the Sicamous net with 56 shots in total.

The shootout winner came from team-leading scorer Noah Lawless, who found room on the far side to secure the two points for Merritt. Tyler Picha was the winning goaltender of the evening, stopping 31 of 34 shots faced.

Back to a winning record Just about two-thirds of the way through the KIJHL season, the Centennials hold a record of 15-11-2-1, good for fourth place in the six-team Bill Olhausen division.

They return to Nicola Valley Memorial Arena on Jan. 9 to host the lowly Spokane Braves in an inter-divisional

NEXT HOME GAMES Fri. Jan 9 vs Spokane 7pm Sat. Jan 24 vs Princeton 7pm Sun. Jan 25 vs Chase 5 pm

PHOTO/MERRITT CENTENNIALS

Cooper Harrington notched his first KIJHL goal in the Cents’ 8-3 win over Sicamous on Jan. 2.

matchup for Minor Hockey Night.

Cents fans ages 18 and under earn free admission if wearing their Merritt Minor Hockey Association jersey or an NHL jersey.

The night marks the only game on the

weekly schedule for the Cents, who next travel back to Sicamous on Jan. 17 before starting a three-game homestand to end the month.

For stats, schedules, and more information, visit www.merrittcentennials.com.

Upcoming Events

Thank You!

Jan. 9- MINOR HOCKEY NIGHT

• 1st Responders Darrell Finnigan, Cory Woods and Kennedy Jackson for First Aid assistance

18 and younger wear your MHA or NHL jersey and get in for FREE

Jan. 24 - Supporting Literacy please donate any extra books

Jan. 25 - 1ST RESPONDER RECOGNITION

• Murray GM and Marcos Limas on donating bulletin board • Panago Pizza for Player of the Month Award

GAME TICKETS AVAILABLE AT NV SPORTS & GAME NIGHT AT BOX OFFCE & THROUGH SHOWPASS

32 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

NICOLA COMMUNITY VALLEY

GOT STORIES? Contact Jake at newsroom@merrittherald.com or call 250-378-4241

MERRITT LIBRARY’S MOST BORROWED TITLES OF 2025 JAKE COURTEPATTE

newsroom@merrittherald. com

With 2025 now in the books, the ThompsonNicola Regional Library has announced the top reads that kept librarygoers turning pages over the calendar year.

Topping the list of 2025’s most borrowed titles is Michael Connelly’s ‘The Waiting’, a cold case detective thriller revolving around a DNA connection between a recently arrested man and a serial rapist and murderer who went quiet twenty years ago.

Read on to find the most borrowed titles in each category, including new lists for DVDs and video games.

Top Kids Titles 3. Big Shot, by Jeff Kinney 2. Hot Mess, by Jeff Kinney 1. The Wild Robot, by Peter Brown

Approved mini-storage ■ On-site rentals ■ Secured ■ Sale of New & Used storage containers ■

1750 Hill Street ■ Phone: 250-315-3000

THE CHURCHES OF MERRITT WELCOME YOU

Top Young Adult Titles 3. Two Degrees, by Alan Gratz 2. A Court of Thorns and Roses, by Sarah J. Maas 1. Sunrise on the Reaping, by Suzanne Collins

Crossroads Community Church 2990 Voght St. • 250-378-2911 Service Time: Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Merritt Baptist Church 2499 Coutlee Avenue (at Orme) Sunday service 10 am, Phone (250)378-2464

Merritt Lutheran Fellowship in St. Michael's Anglican Hall • 250-378-9899 Service Time: 3rd Sunday each month 1:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Catholic Church Corner of Jackson & Blair • 250-378-2919 Mass Time: Sundays 9:00 a.m.

Top Adult Non-Fiction Titles 3. Revenge of the Tipping Point, by Malcolm Gladwell 2. The Anxious Generation, by Jonathan Haidt 1. The Let Them Theory,

by Mel Robbins

St. Michael’s Anglican Church 1990 Chapman St. • 250-319-8823 Service Times: 2nd and 4th Sundays only - 10:00 a.m.

Trinity United Church Corner of Quilchena & Chapman • 250-378-5735 Service Time every Sunday - 10 am Somang Mission Community Church (SMC) 1755 Coldwater Ave. (The Cadet Hall) Sunday Service Time: 2:30 pm • 250-280-1268 Sunday School Time: 12:15 pm

Top Adult Fiction Titles 3. The Grey Wolf, by Louise Penny 2. The Women, by Kristin Hannah 1. The Waiting, by Michael Connelly Top DVDs 3. The Wild Robot 2. Deadpool & Wolverine 1. Horizon: An American Saga, Chapter 1

CONTAIN-IT STORAGE

Nicola Valley Evangelical Free Church 1950 Maxwell St. • 250-378-9502 Service Times: Sunday 10 am Top Video Games 3. Super Mario 3D World & Bowser’s Fury (Nintendo Switch) 2. Paper Mario: The

Thousand-Year Door (Nintendo Switch) 1. Luigi’s Mansion 3 (Nintendo Switch)

Motion Church Merritt Sundays 10 am Coquihalla Middle School (2975 Clapperton Ave) www.wearemotionchurch.ca/merritt

IS YOUR FURNACE READY FOR WINTER Don’t get caught off guard by a broken heater when you need it most.

Give your furnace a tune-up before the cold hits.

BE SURE TO KEEP THE FAMILY WARM & SAFE THIS WINTER

250-378-5104

2151 Coutlee Ave., coppervalley@uniserve.com

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 33

CANNABIS STORE UNITYCANNABIS.CA

19

Must be

OPEN

EVERYDAY 9 AM TO 10 PM

#104 - 2101 Quilchena Avenue

250-378-0450

We Deliver

+

34 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY

CLASSIFIEDS When you provide an opportunity for a dying person to tell their story, it tells them that their life had value.

DEADLINE: MONDAY at noon. for that week’s paper.

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca Announcements Announcements

BOOK YOUR CLASSIFIED AD – IN PRINT AND ONLINE!

Call 250-378-4241

or email: publisher@merrittherald.com Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

P: 250-280-1701

MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE SOCIETY Listening is sacred. Whenever you can do that for someone, you are honouring them.

P: 250-280-1701

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

Nicola Valley & District Metis Society & DISTRICT HOSPICE AGMMERRITT & ELECTIONS

SOCIETY Date: January 24, 2026 Time: 11:00 a.m.

Location: Conayt Friendship Centre There is much talk these days about ‘closure’.

Please use thetopurple in the Saying good-bye someonedoor we love, evenalley. after

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

Barbara Noreen Alexander July 13, 1932 ~ December 6, 2025 Barbara Noreen Alexander (nee Blight) of Calgary, AB, passed away peacefully of natural causes at Kamloops Seniors Village on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at the age of 93 years.

Barb is remembered and sadly missed by her son, Greg (Carole Leroux); grandson, Cody; granddaughter, Laura Steel (Tyson); step-grandson, Jacob Blakely (Josh Davis); step-granddaughter, Anne Blakely-Barloco (Wayne Barloco); five great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Joan Alexander; sister-inlaw, Carol Fraser (Casey Wynker); and many nieces and nephews.

Barbara was predeceased by her loving husband Don, sons Jack and Bruce; sister Joyce Fraser, brother-in-law, Doug and son John; brother-inlaw, Jack, wife Barbara and sons David & Jeff; sister-in-law, Jill Huffman and husband Ray; brother-in-law Bob Alexander and daughter Leslie.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Balzac in the spring of 2026.

Condolences may be forwarded through www.drakecremation.com.

they have died, doesn’t require that we put an end to the relationship.

OBITUARIES OBITUARIES

P: 250-280-1701

www.merritthospice.org Email: merritthospice@shaw.ca

Merritt MERRITT & DISTRICT HOSPICE Funeral Chapel S

A Division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC OCIETY

Celebrating each life like no other Being with people REGULAR who are dying in conscious OFFICE HOURS Tues., Thurs.and & Fri.:us.

On caring Call and ways is ofMon., value to them 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

24 Hours A Day Their reminiscences Wednesday: and our care contribute to a 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m legacy that enriches our lives. www.MerrittFuneralChapel.com 2113 Granite Ave., Merritt, BC

www.merritthospice.org

250-378-2141 orEmail: 1-800-668-3379 merritthospice@shaw.ca P: 250-280-1701

THERE’S MORE ONLINE

KamloopsThisWeek.com merrittherald.com

Jack Brabant

March 15, 1945 ~ November 5, 2025 It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Brabant on November 5, 2025, in Merritt, British Columbia.

Born in Hearst, Ontario, Jack relocated to Merritt in 1969. He quickly made the Nicola Valley his home, remaining a part of the community for 56 years until his passing.

Jack was a man of simple pleasures and deep interests. He was a fervent supporter of hockey, always cheering loudly for Team Canada and his beloved Montreal Canadiens. He found joy in playing his guitar whenever he could, trying his luck with “scratches,” and spending time reminiscing about or watching the pursuit of gold mining.

Jack was predeceased by his older sister and a younger brother. He is survived by his sons, his youngest brother, and his youngest sister. His stories and support will be missed by those who knew him and shared their lives with him.

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

Curtis Frederic George FOX & Julia (Julie) Verona FOX (nee Balogh) Long time Merritt residents Curtis Frederic George FOX, age 89, and Julia (Julie) Verona FOX (nee Balogh), age 87, passed away November 26, 2025 and December 7, 2025. Curtis and Julie exchanged marriage vows at Penticton, BC February 14, 1958 and settled in Merritt in 1961 where they raised their three daughters. Curtis and Julie are survived by Debbie (Ken), Cindy (Paul) , Tammy (Bart), grandchildren Lisa and Matt , Curtis’ siblings Karen and Keith (Delores), and Julie’s sisters Violet, Shirley, and Sylvia (Don).

Curtis entered the world March 21, 1936 shortly after his young mother Grace (Stevenson) endured her first labour aboard a CPR “speeder” transporting her from home in Claire, Saskatchewan to the doctor in nearby Wadena. Son of Alfred Frederic Fox, Curtis was predeceased by sister Faye. Julie was born April 10, 1938 at Lethbridge, Alberta to parents Bert and Julia (nee Radi) Balogh and is predeceased by brother-in-laws Julius and Ray. A shift supervisor at Craigmont Mines, and a well known carpenter and respected building contractor until 1993, Curtis had a hand in the construction or renovation of many Merritt homes and businesses.

Although Curtis’ formative decades in Cawston were economically tough and marred by the loss of his father, with the support of his loving spouse of 67 years, 7-day work weeks and much sacrifice and hard work, Curtis and Julie persevered to build a successful life and family in Merritt. Julie is remembered as a nurturing mom, keen swimmer and curler, and for baking great lemon pies. Curtis, an avid reader blessed with a sharp memory and quick wit, was known for his passionate and fiercely defended alternate viewpoints to most opinions coming his way. During their retirement years, Julie and Curtis enjoyed travel to warm foreign locales and each year spent many RV months soaking up the Arizona sunshine. In their final years, Curtis devoted long hours to supporting the love of his life through her time of need at Gillis House.

Heartfelt thanks to the professional and caring staff at Nicola Valley Hospital and at Gillis House for their exemplary care through Curtis and Julie’s final weeks and hours. In memory of the Foxes, please consider a donation to Gillis House, Nicola Valley Hospital, or research programs at cancer.ca.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 35

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

Sylvia Marion Irving June 25, 1934 - Dec. 21, 2025 Sylvia Marion Irving passed away peacefully on December 21, 2025, at Kelowna General Hospital, at the age of 91. She is now reunited with her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Irving, to whom she was married for 60 years.

Sylvia was born on June 25, 1934, in The Pas, Manitoba. She later grew up in Victoria, BC before moving with her parents to Merritt, BC, where she would build a life filled with love, family, and community. It was in Merritt that Sylvia met Bob, and together they raised their family. Sylvia had a deep love for her pugs (Buddah & Koko) and especially enjoyed taking them for walks, a simple joy that brought her great happiness.

In 2004, Sylvia and Bob moved to Kelowna, where they continued to enjoy life together. For more than 30 years, they spent their winters travelling south to Palm Springs, creating countless treasured memories.

When those trips came to an end, they found new adventures on casino bus tours to Washington St. Sylvia also loved baking for her family and friends, with her raisin squares being a particular favourite. She took great pride in her flower garden, where carnations—her favourite—always held a special place.

Above all, Sylvia was a caring and selfless woman who consistently put others before herself. She will be lovingly remembered by her children Brett (Carol), Alan (Joan), Sharon, and Rosanne; her grandchildren Alisha, Nikki, and Michael; and her great-grandchild Rikki.

Sylvia will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her, and her kindness, warmth, and gentle spirit will live on in the hearts of her family forever.

Family and friends will each honour her in their own ways, as no formal service will be held.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to the Central Okanagan Food Bank or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

Pamela-Lee Ann Jarvis December 16, 2025 Pamela-Lee Ann Jarvis, age 45, daughter of Dennis McDonald and Theresa Bodnariuk, passed away the night of December 16, 2025. She was an extremely warm and kind individual, showing love and compassion to everyone within the community of Merritt.

Pamela Jarvis is survived by her six children, her father, her one sibling, as well as many extended family members. Her legacy lives on through them and all who knew her.

A public memorial service will take place at 10 am on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Merritt Civic Center. We invite all family and friends who wish to pay their last respects to attend. There will be a guest book where you may share any thoughts, memories or comments of Pam with the family.

A huge thank you to everyone who has supported the Jarvis family in their time of need. The go fund me will remain active should anyone still wish to donate.

We will forever hold Pam in our hearts.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.merrittfuneralchapel.com

Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.

Do not go gentle into that good night.

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

by Dylan Thomas

Mr. Roger Galon December 15, 2025

TODAY'S PUZZLE ANSWERS

Mr. Roger Galon of Gainsborough, beloved husband of Sandra, passed away peacefully at the Galloway Health Centre in Oxbow, SK, on Monday, December 15, 2025, at the age of 81.

Roger is survived by his wife, Sandra of Gainsborough, SK; four children: Carrie Moore (Jeffrey) of Oxbow, whose children are Raine, Samantha, and Mitchell; Terry McCulloch (David) of Gainsborough, SK, whose children are Natasha and Sheri Ann; Perry Galon (Shannon) of Fox Valley, SK, whose children are Cassandra, Brittany, Jade, Mason, Dominic, and Shelby; and Garry Galon (Corrine) of Armstrong, BC, whose children are Trenton and Gavin.

He is also survived by his siblings, Arlene Capiak (Carl) of Morden and Allan Galon (Carol) of Marathon, ON. Roger was predeceased by his parents, John and Kathleen Galon; his stepfather, Albert; his brother, Vernon; sisters-in-law Joyce and Carol; brother-in-law Carl; nephew Dwayne; and great-grandson Matthew.

Roger was the third of four children and grew up in Fort William (Thunder Bay), Ontario. He married the love of his life, Sandra, on October 31, 1964, and together they shared 61 wonderful years of marriage. Throughout his life, Roger worked in road construction and mining, eventually retiring from Highland Valley Copper in Logan Lake, BC. In retirement, Roger enjoyed woodworking and spending time with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He especially treasured playing chess with his great-grandson Emmett. Roger also proudly served on the council of Gainsborough for many years, contributing to his community with dedication and care.He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Please thoroughly wash your hands to keep us healthy!

Please recycle this newspaper.

36 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

OBITUARIES

Erin Honor Bailey Zimmerman April 8, 1969 November 11, 2025 It is with deep sorrow and loving remembrance that we announce the passing of Erin Zimmerman, who left this world on November 11, 2025, at Nicola Valley Hospital in Merritt, BC, surrounded by her devoted family.

Erin was born on April 8, 1969, and raised in Richmond, BC, a place that always held a special place in her heart. From an early age, she was known for her big personality, strong spirit, and deep love for those around her.

Above all else, Erin cherished her family. She was a devoted and loving mother to her two children, Tyler and Jessica, who were the pride and joy of her life. Her love for them was unwavering, and her guidance and strength will continue to live on through them.

Erin found happiness in life’s simple and meaningful moments—sharing meals she lovingly prepared, spending time with friends, and caring for the animals she adored. Her love for animals, especially her horses, brought her peace and joy and reflected her spirited soul.

She will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, bold strength, and the deep love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Erin touched many lives, and her absence will be felt deeply by all who knew her.

Erin’s memory will live on in the hearts of her children, family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have known her.

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

OBITUARIES

Flora Constance Pieroway (Connie) February 18, 1963 ~ December 6, 2025

DO NOT GO GENTLE INTO THAT GOOD NIGHT Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightening they Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.

Do not go gentle into that good night.

Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

VALUE ADDED LUMBER REMANUFACTURING PLANT

PRODUCTION WORKERS (FT/PT) • Wages: starting $20 to $28

(depends on experience & attendance)

• Steady day shift work • Students welcome to apply • No experience necessary • Will train

CERTIFIED MILLWRIGHTS REQUIRED CARPENTERS REQUIRED WITH EXPERIENCE LICENCED SECURITY GUARDS Excellent medical & dental plan

PLEASE SUBMIT RESUME IN PERSON TO

by Dylan Thomas

Legal/Public Notices

Each Loss Each loss is very different, The pain is so severe.

Will I ever stop missing This one I loved so dear?

Good times we had together, The moments that we shared We didn’t have to tell each other How much we really cared.

I never dreamed you’d go away, Never thought of sorrow.

So sure you’d always be here Took for granted each tomorrow.

Help Wanted

1195 Houston Street, Merritt BC • 250-378-6161

Legal/Public Notices

Legal/Public Notices

Legal/Public Notices

Land Act: Notice of Application for a Disposition of Crown Land Take notice that I/We, NFK Holdings Ltd., from Merritt, BC, have applied to the British Columbia Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship (WLRS), Thompson Okanagan Region, for Licence of Occupation for addition of area to an existing gravel pit located on Provincial Crown land located in the vicinity of Merrit, BC. WLRS invites comments on this application. The Lands File is 3413718 Written comments concerning this application should be directed to the Senior Authorization Specialist, WLRS, Thompson Okanagan Region, at 441 Columbia Street, Kamloops, BC V2C 2T3. Comments will be received by WLRS up to February 14, 2026. WLRS may not be able to consider comments received after this date. Please visit the website at http://comment.nrs.gov.bc.ca/ for more information.

Be advised that any response to this advertisement will be considered part of the public record. Access to these records requires the submission of a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. Visit http://www.gov.bc.ca/freedomofinformation to learn more about FOI submissions.

Schedule A2

Now my life is all confused Since you went away.

You took a part of me And for help I daily pray.

Local Features Map of Existing L.D. Creek Gravel Pit

ad

o rR

te

wa

ld

Co

Coldw

But when God sent you to me He never said that you were mine, That I could keep you always – Only borrowed for a time.

ater River

Deeply saddened and with a heavy heart we share the passing of our beloved sister Flora Constance Pieroway. Flora passed away peacefully Saturday, December 6, in Merrit, B.C. Born and raised in Newfoundland Flora lived in western Canada for the past twenty years where she studied and worked as a nurse assistant in elderly care in the Okanagan region. A natural care giver, in recent years she worked bravely through the Covid 19 pandemic and natural disasters in her town.

She is fondly remembered by patients and families for bestowing comfort, calm and gentleness to attentive care, with a sense of humor.

We will remember her fondness for adopting stray cats, sharing her political views and her distinctive laughter.

Flora lived with early onset Alzheimer’s disease the past few years and met considerable challenges in her daily life. May she rest in peace.

She is survived by siblings Roy Pieroway (Judy-Dec) Calgary Alt, Shirley White (John – Dec) Pennsylvania, USA, Jim Pieroway, Stephenville Crossing NL, Carolyn Pieroway, Tokyo, Japan, DJ Pieroway (Mark Gleeson) Wagga Wagga, Australia, and many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to our family.

Memorial services are planned for summer when family can gather months in NL and BC.

Help Wanted

Highw ay

OBITUARIES

Coqu ihalla

OBITUARIES

Bro

ok

Cre

ek

L.D. Creek FSR

Kettle

Valley

Coldwater Road y

Railwa

Now, He’s called you home, I’m sad and I shed tears.

Yet I’m glad He loaned you to me And we had these many years.

Datum:

NAD83

Projection:

NAD_1983_BC_Environment_Albers

Key Map of British Columbia

Client

Project Title

Design Engineers

Project Manager

Contractors

Date

L.D. Creek Gravel Pit Renewal Drawing Title

Schedule A2 - Local Features Map

25/12/17

Survey

BH

Drawn

BH

Design

Scale 1:20,000 - Print On 11x17 Size Paper Rev

0

200

400

800

1

Y/M/D

Description

25/12/17 schedule a2-local features map

-

Project Number -

JG/SG/BH Reference Drawing -

Checked Drawing Number Drawing Type Revision * information 1 1 of 1

-

Although underground utilities may be shown on drawings, RAD Earthworks Design Solutions is not responsible for actual utility locations. Contractor should expose and visually verify locations before work commences.

Contractor should verify all measurements and design aspects on this plan before proceeding with construction.

All measurements are in meters unless otherwise stated.

Legend IP IP Mon Mon CP

Iron Pin - Found Iron Pin - Not Found Monument - Found Monument - Not Found Control Point

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 37

Local

SUDOKU Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a Sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

S HOME RENOVATION

Park Family PUZZLE ANSWERS ON SEPARATE PAGE g Contractin m Transform your bathroo T, R PE EX & shower with s. on uti sol te ple com

G SER

MOBILE WELDIN

Forgaard’s .

WELDING Lwtd ner Nate Forgaard -

O

IENCE

S EXPER RED SEAL CERTIFIED • 20 YR +

8710 Phone: 250-315outlook.com @ ng eldi email: forgaardsw

ity novations with qual EXPERT home re tail! de and attention to craftsmanship

0145

For FREE ll 604-760 a c estimates Help Wanted

NG MOBILE WELDVIIC E

TREE SERVICE

JIM PO TT ER

MERRITT TREE SERVICE

Help Wanted

DOWN

ACROSS

• Fu lly ins ure d, cer tif ied fal ler • WS BC co ve red • Da ng ero us tre e as ses sm en t ➤Schedule your FREE Estim ate

18. Harsh, grating 1. Lakes 6. Electromotive force noise 19. Steward 9. Invests in little 21. A fencing sword enterprises 22. Infections 13. Longtime Utah 23. Actress Ryan Jazz coach 24. Sodium 14. Small sailboat 25. Swedish castle 15. Actor Idris 28. A lump of slime 16. Mild yellow Dutch 29. African antelope cheese made in balls 31. Insurance 17. System that providers detects objects under 33. Choosy water 36. Ringworm

38. Unpolished 39. Drenches 41. Pant style 44. Son of Noah 45. Spiritual being 46. Upton Sinclair novel 48. Journalist Tarbell 49. Popular sports highlight show 51. Born of 52. Rich tapestry 54. S. China seaport

56. State of being unclothed 60. Surrounded by 61. Residue 62. Away from wind 63. Dried-up 64. Visionary 65. A very large body of water 66. Garden tools 67. Screen type 68. Ancient Scandinavian poet

1. Millisecond 2. Spanish city 3. A sudden very loud sound 4. “The Indiana Jones of beer” 5. Tin 6. Sea eagles 7. Volcanic crater 8. Type of coat 9. Women’s apartments in Ottoman palace 10. Divulge a secret 11. Norwegian playwright

29. One from the Big Apple 30. Genus of woolly lemurs 32. Songs to one’s beloved 34. Indigenous person of N.E. Thailand 35. Supplemented with difficulty 37. Farewell 40. Investment account (abbr.)

42. One from Utah 43. Begets 47. A male child

49. Break apart 50. Brief appearance 52. Partner to “oohed” 53. A light informal meal 55. Fabric with smooth, shiny surface 56. One billionth of a second 57. Ancient Italian-Greek colony 58. Close tightly 59. Mail out 61. Language 65. Computer characteristic

12. “It’s a Wonderful Life” director 14. Poisonous perennial plant 17. 18-year astronomical period 20. Clothes 21. Places to sit 23. Family of regulator genes 25. New York ballplayer 26. Impressive in size or scope 27. Jacques __, French biologist

CALL JIM at 250-378-4212

Solutions for your tree prob

lems!

PLUMBING & HEATING

N ic ol a P lu m bi ng & H ea ti ng

FULLY QUALIFIED TRADESMAN IN:

Plumbing, Heating, Bonded Gas Fitters.

t metal.

Service work, furnace service and custom shee

!

today Certified Plumbers & Gas Fitters wanted - apply

com www.nicolaplumbingandheating.

TSBC Licence email: nicplumb@telus.net 206 4 Coutlee Ave.

#LGA0 002534

Ph: 250-378-4943

38 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

NEW & EXCITING ADDITION TO MERRITT HERALD

Nicola Valley Real Estate Review Your one-stop shop for all the developments in the world of real estate Listings | Tips and Guidelines | Real estate professionals

Don’t miss our February 5 edition

BC home grant threshold falls for first time since 2020 THE CANADIAN PRESS newsroom@merrittherald.com

VICTORIA: The British Columbia government has dropped its threshold for its homeowner grant program for the first time in six years as assessed values for homes fall in the province’s Lower Mainland.

BC Assessment says homeowners in BC’s most concentrated population centre in and around Metro Vancouver can expect a decrease of up to 10 per cent for their home’s assessed value, reflecting valuation as of July 1 last year.

Along with the new assessments, the BC Ministry of Finance has announced the threshold for the B.C. homeowner grant has been set at $2.075 million this year, down about 4.6 per cent from $2.175 million last year.

It’s the first time the threshold for the program, aimed at providing property tax relief for some

homeowners, has dropped since 2020 when home prices last moderated across BC. BC Assessment says homes in other regions saw more stable assessed values, with Vancouver Island and the Southern Interior seeing valuations swinging from five-per-cent increases to five-percent decreases.

The North and the Kootenays, meanwhile, saw changes in valuations between 15-per-cent increases and five-per-cent decreases.

“The softening housing market is being reflected in 2026 property assessments,” says Bryan Murao with BC Assessment in a statement about the Lower Mainland’s lower assessed values.

The agency says about 1.14 million properties were assessed in the Lower Mainland, and total assessment values for the region fell to $1.92 trillion for 2026 versus last year’s values at about $2.01 trillion.

The sharpest drop in the region

was in White Rock, where average single-family home values fell nine per cent to $1.58 million while the University Endowment Lands, Richmond and Langley all saw eight per cent drops.

Single-family home values only rose in four communities in the Lower Mainland: Anmore with a four per cent increase, Harrison Hot Springs rising three per cent, Squamish two per cent and Pemberton one per cent.

The BC homeowner grant threshold had been steadily increasing from $1.525 million to the high point of $2.175 million last year before this year’s drop.

The ministry says owners of properties valued above the threshold may still qualify for a partial grant due to the program’s gradual phaseout process.

Homeowners with a dependent child, above the age of 55, widowed or with disabilities can also qualify for other forms of relief.

www.merrittherald.com | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | 39

MORE THAN A HOUSE: Why Merritt Continues To Feel Like Home I

n a world where so much feels uncertain, the idea of home has taken on even greater meaning. In Merritt, home has never just been about four walls and a roof — it’s about connection, community, and the feeling of belonging that comes from living in a place where people still know their neighbours.

Over the past year, local realtors have seen buyers drawn to Merritt for many different reasons. Some are young families looking for space to grow, others are retirees seeking a slower pace, and many are people returning to the community they once called home. What they all share is the desire for somethingthatfeelsgrounded and real.

Merritt offers that in a way few places can. Tree-lined streets, access to endless outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community pride continue to make the Nicola Valley an appealing place to plant roots. Whether it’s a starter home, a family house filled with memories, or a peaceful place to enjoy retirement, each property represents a new chapter for those who live there.

Local real estate professionals play an

Merritt offers that in a way few places can. Tree-lined streets, access to endless outdoor recreation, and a strong sense of community pride

BUYING OR SELLING IN TODAY’S MARKET: WHAT TO KEEP IN MIND FOR BUYERS: •

Know your budget early: Getting pre-approved helps you understand what’s realistic and strengthens your position when making an offer.

•

Think beyond the house: Consider neighbourhoods, proximity to schools, recreation, healthcare, and how the location fits your lifestyle now and in the future.

•

Be prepared to move thoughtfully: The right home may not come up immediately. Patience and flexibility can go a long way.

•

Don’t skip due diligence: Home inspections, property disclosures, and understanding zoning or land use are important steps in protecting your investment.

•

Lean on local knowledge: Working with professionals who understand the Merritt market can help you navigate details you might otherwise overlook.

FOR SELLERS: •

First impressions matter: Small updates, decluttering, and curb appeal can make a big difference in how a home is received.

•

Price with the market in mind: An informed pricing strategy helps attract serious buyers and avoid extended time on the market.

•

Be flexible with showings: Accessibility can increase interest and help generate momentum.

•

Prepare for the paperwork: Understanding disclosures, timelines, and conditions helps the process go more smoothly.

•

Have a plan for what’s next: Whether you’re downsizing, relocating, or moving within the community, planning ahead reduces stress.

important role in this journey. More than just helping buy or sell a house, they help people navigate big life transitions — welcoming newcomers, guiding longtime residents through downsizing, and helping families find a space that truly fits their needs.

Their local knowledge, relationships, and understanding of the community make all the difference.

Despite the ups and downs of the market, one thing remains constant: people

continue to believe in Merritt.

They believe in its future, its resilience, and the lifestyle it offers. Every sold sign represents optimism — a family choosing to stay, a newcomer choosing to arrive, or a dream taking shape.

As Merritt continues to grow and evolve, the heart of the community remains the same. Home is still where neighbours wave, kids ride bikes down familiar streets, and memories are built one day at a time. And that’s worth celebrating.

WHY ARE YOU WASTING TIME, SELECT YOUR LOT AND START PLANNING YOUR BUILD!

Nicola Lakeshore Estates Fully Serviced Lakefront & Lakeview Sites Build the home you’ve always wanted in beautiful British Columbia...

477 Picturesque Acres featuring fully-serviced lakefront and lakeview home sites on pristine Nicola Lake - only a three hour drive from Vancouver!

Surrounded by rolling hills in an area of hot, dry summers and sunny winters, this area is truly a recreational paradise in all seasons.

SEEING IS BELIEVING - YOU’LL LOVE IT!

CEN TURY 21 Moving Real Estate BC LTD.

Brad Yakimchuk - Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-315-3043 cell / 250-378-6166 office 250-378-4344 fax / 1-877-841-2100

40 | THURSDAY, January 8, 2026 | www.merrittherald.com

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST. RESULTS YOU CAN SEE! NEW YEAR, NEW OPPORTUNITIES! As we move into the new year, fresh listings and new possibilities are emerging for both buyers and sellers. With renewed activity and changing market conditions, it’s a great time to explore your options, whether you’re thinking of buying your next home or selling your current one.

CITY OF MERRITT

ACREAGE/RANCHES

301-2802 Grandview Heights $269,000

1508 Covert Place $869,000 11.07 Acres

Strata Unit - 3 bed/1bath Amazing Views

Fenced/cross fenced Four season paradise

2225 Hazelhurst Rd $1,550,000

2376 Quilchena Ave $355,000

14.27 Acres Flat acreage, water licenses, irrigated pastures, 120’x20’ covered barn with alleyway, livestock pens with auto waterers, covered cattle handling facility with power & water, wired tack building, riding arena

4 bed/2.5 baths Potential Inlaw Suite

3816 Petit Crk Rd $1,590,000 53 Acres

2101 Blackwell Ave $365,000 3 bed/2.5 baths Detached Garage

2 homes, 2 shops, fenced cross fenced, livestock shelters, chicken coop, amazing views, private

COMMERCIAL

“I’m always happy to talk and provide guidance. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, I’d be glad to help.”

JENNIFER KIGHTLEY REAL ESTATE AGENT CELL: (250) 315-3256 WEBSITE: WWW.MERRITTREALTOR.CA

2549 Nicola Ave $659,000

2690 sqft; 3 bay versatile commercial building, C7 zoning

3649 Merritt-Spences Bridge Hwy $825,000

The Inn At Spences Bridge, prime location, zoned for C1, fully furnished

LOTS

Lot A Grandview Heights $795,000

Merritt Real Estate Services Ltd

1.73 Acres Residential development, prime location with amazing views