MCKEOWN, Roger, 91, of Trail, BC, passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2012.
He led an active and fulfilling life until the end, with a special event of participating in the official opening of Redstone Resort, just 2 weeks before his death. Roger was born in Chilco, BC on July 18, 1921. He enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces in 1940, discharged in 1945. He very proudly displayed his ‘Veteran License Plate’, as serving Canada always meant a lot to him. He was a Civil Servant for his full career, living in several parts of the province. When he retired, he was the District Manager of Highways. During his retirement he enjoyed numerous activities and could be seen climbing West Trail Covered Stairways, walking the Sunningdale Loop, curling and most frequently, golfing at his favourite course, Redstone Resort with his long-time friend, Bill Vickers.
Roger was predeceased by his beloved wife Geri in 1993. He then took on the mission of making sure that his family of 5 children and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren remained together, as they had when Geri was here. He organized a family reunion every year on his birthday so that everyone would get together. The family had to promise him that when he was gone this tradition would continue. They will honour this promise.
As a father, Roger set an amazing example. He provided support when needed, advice when asked for and always sound direction. He is survived by his loving children; Mary Martin (Richard Daoust), Cliff McKeown (Debbie), Shirley Webster (John), Patrick McKeown (Colleen) and Carol Sloan (Colin). His numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren will all miss their Papa. He is also survived by one sister, Shirley McAdam of Toronto and numerous nieces and nephews.
As well as being preceded in death by his loving wife Geri McKeown after 44 years of marriage, he was also preceded by his parents, two sisters and a brother.
A family Celebration of Life will be held on his birthday next summer.
Gwen Ziprick of Alternatives Funeral and Cremation services has been entrusted with the arrangements. You are invited to leave an online message of condolence by visiting the website.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Phillips and his staff for the superb care that he has received for many years. Also thanks to Dr. Zhang and staff, KBRH staff and all of his homecare providers.
Memorial contributions may be made in Roger’s name to KBRH Foundation or to Muscular Dystrophy Association for research in Polymositis at Muscular Dystrophy Canada, 1401 West Broadway, Vancouver BC V6H 1H6.