Born in Vawn, Saskatchewan on August 14, 1922 to Thomas and Delphine Nedelec, René was predeceased by loving wife Ann [nee Rodger] in September 2010, and brothers Roger, Lucien and Andrew. René is survived by his four children: Barbara Bot [Jos], Maureen Little [Gary], Greg [Lori] and Michael [Cheryl]; nine grandchildren: Megan, Darren and Bryan Bot; Alanna and Michael Little; Lorne, Jared, Callen and Delphine Nedelec; and four great-children: Elena and Luna Sanchez-Bot; and Svasti and Aditi Nedelec. René is survived by brothers George, John, Paul and Charlie, and sisters Yvette Lessard and Helen Roach, as well as numerous in-laws, nephews and nieces. He passed away peacefully on February 29 with family members at his side.
Known for his abiding concern for others, his gentle spirit and love of country, René answered the call to duty by serving overseas with the Canadian armed forces in World War II, ending in Amsterdam with the liberation of the Netherlands. He worked for Teck Cominco for over 35 years, most of which were spent in the zinc tank rooms. There he enjoyed ‘pie time’ where he took enormous pride in dominating the crib board which he continued to do with family and friends outside of the workplace.
René served his community through St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. He could often be seen in his retirement years walking his favorite route across Trail’s two main bridges first thing in the morning come rain, shine, snow or sleet. He loved travel and meeting people from other cultures. Most importantly, he loved his family and friends who, in turn, deeply loved him. He will be greatly missed by all.
The family would like to thank the entire staff of Columbia View Special Care Unit, with particular thanks to Vinay, Rebecca, Gwen, Colleen and Joy.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC at
#300-828 West 8th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C., V5Z 1E2 or online at www.alzheimerbc.org
A celebration of Rene’s life will be held at a later date with details to follow. Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation Services™ has been entrusted with arrangements.
A man is measured not by what lies in his vault of treasures, but by what treasures lie in the vaults of his heart.