1923 - 2016
Close members of the family bade farewell to their beloved husband and father William Skobalski at Vernon Jubilee Hospital on August 25, 2016. William (“Bill”) was born in Mundare, Alberta on April 8, 1923 and was the youngest son of Polish immigrants John and Genia Skobalski. The family moved to Coldstream in 1928 and in 1934 settled on a small farm which is still held by the family today.
Bill first joined NOCA Dairy as a plant worker after which he drove the local cream truck throughout the North Okanagan where farmers could tell the time of day and day of the week just by Bill’s steady and reliable schedule. Over more than 20 years of driving he had amassed over a million accident-free miles. Upon retirement, after 37 years in the dairy industry, he continued to enjoy driving. RV vacations with family and friends included travel across Canada, and a trip of over 7000 km to Alaska, Yukon and NWT, as well as many trips to the western and southwestern US. Bill had a fond appreciation of antique cars, trucks, and tractors and was a member of the Vintage Car Club of Canada for over 40 years. Bill’s favourite hobby was spending time in his woodworking shop meticulously crafting everything from birdhouses and picture frames to furniture and cabinetry. Bill had a kind and sensitive soul and had a special love for animals.
Bill is survived by Jean, his wife of 60 years, son Glen (Robyn), daughter Marnie (Dan), and son Del from a previous marriage. He was predeceased by his brothers Walter (Mary) and Ted (Kay). Bill will be missed by his granddoggies Anuk and Rio and close friend Charlie the neighbour dog. The family wish to thank Dr. Dyck and all the staff on the 2nd floor of Vernon Jubilee Hospital for their excellent care and comfort. No flowers by request. Donations may be made to the SPCA or the Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation. A memorial service and reception will be held on September 4, 2016 at 1:30 PM at the Coldstream Women’s Institute Hall, 9909 Kalamalka Road, Coldstream. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family at www.MyAlternatives.ca
Cremation arrangements entrusted to ALTERNATIVES FUNERAL & CREMATION SERVICES® Armstrong 250-546-7237 & Vernon 250-558-0866