March 24, 2019
"Roy from Canmore" was born May 24th, 1936 in Banff, Alberta to Agnes (Ligatt) and Edward Jahelka, the second oldest of four children. He passed away peacefully in Vernon, BC on March 30, 2019 surrounded by family. Roy is predeceased by his wife, Kristine (Kris) Jahelka, his sisters, Lorna and Betty, and his great granddaughter Paige. In his early years he worked at the mine in Canmore, AB. He served in the Canadian Army as an equipment operator and later as training department lead, from 1957 and was stationed in Germany, Val Cartier, Quebec, and Chilliwack, BC. He enjoyed playing hockey during this time. He retired from the army in 1977 and moved the family to Fort McMurray Alberta to work for Syncrude as a heavy equipment trainer/supervisor/operator. He and Kris built their retirement home in the sunny Okanagan in Westshore estates. They enjoyed many lasting friendships on the hill. He leaves behind a legacy of family love including his four children Debbie (Lionel) Goertzen, Tom (Lorna), Ed (Diana) Bill (Gwen), honorary daughter Joanne (Bruce) Richards their daughter Laura (Nathan) Walkins and his sister, Linda (Gerry) Lalonde. His thirteen grandchildren and three great grandchildren gave him great joy; Shane (Ashley) & Baby Paige Goertzen, Kristen, Michelle, Cory, Tyler, Kali & grandson, Dylan, Derek (Robin) & Baby Levi, Brandon (Skye), Maris (Justin), Hilary, and Carly.
Roy was a character through and through and loved to laugh and make others do the same. He spent his last 2 years in Hearthstone Manor. He had a great connection with the staff there and we are forever grateful for the excellent care he received.
A service will be held on May 4th at 1:30 pm in the Schubert Centre 3505 - 30th Avenue, Vernon. In lieu of flowers we ask you make a donation to your favourite charity in Roy's name.