1924-2013
Wilf Thebes
It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Wilf, on July 21, 2013 at the age of 88, surrounded by his loving family.
Wilf was raised on the family orchard in Osoyoos, but after working in the orchards, he decided to change careers and drove a logging truck for a number of years. Deciding he needed adventure in his life, he moved up to Kitimat where he went to work at Alcan moving through numerous positions, and even going to Australia to assist in the start up of Kurri Kurri, a new Alcan smelter. Wilf’s family was his life and while in Kitimat, he was involved with the Boy Scout organization, church and everything that involved his two children, including many trips down to the Okanagan for family gatherings, skiing at the cabin in Smithers and spending time at a summer cabin at Lakelse Lake.
After retiring from Alcan in March 1985, Wilf and Kay moved back to Osoyoos. There he became involved with the church, enjoyed lawn bowling, golf, downhill skiing, cross country skiing and wood working projects. Wilf loved to dance at every function they attended and everyone knew he was around by his whistle.
His dedication as “The Number One Grandpa” was watching his grandchildren, Kali, Kevin and Kristi grow and support them in whatever they were doing. Grandpa was the best taxi driver, sideline coach, ski instructor. He did it all. He always had the “biggest” smile of how proud he was of all of them.
In Wilf’s world of meeting people, he touched everyone in a special way
and these memories of his kindness will live on in us all.
Wilf was predeceased by his father, August Thebes, Mother, Else Thebes and son, William (Bill) Thebes.
Wilf will always and forever be rememberd by his loving family, including his wife of 65 years, Kay Thebes; daughter Debbie Gehringer (Gordon); and his grandchildren Kali, Kevin and Kristi; stepbrother Ed Sturn (Omi), nephew Todd, niece Arlene and all the family that are helping at this time of loss.
A celebration of Wilf’s life will be held at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, Osoyoos on Friday, August 9 at 11:00am.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made: In Memory of Wilf Thebes:
SOGH Acute Care, c/o South Okanagan General Hospital, 911 McKinney Rd. Oliver, BC V0H1T3. These donations will go towards the purchase of equipment at the South Okanagan General Hospital, where Wilf thought the staff was awesome.
Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting
www.nunes-pottinger.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service.