We Remember
HETHERINGTON, Royce
—
Royce Hetherington, aged 88, peacefully passed away on July 5, 2023, at Hospice House in Kelowna, BC, with his beloved family by his side. It is with profound sadness that we announce his departure from this world.
Royce is survived by his loving wife, Merle, his daughter Corbie Hewko (Greg), and his son Mark Hetherington (Laura), all residing in Kelowna. His memory will forever be cherished by his adored grandchildren: Tye Hewko, Jayce Hewko (Brie), Brooks Jamieson (Sam), and Maggie and Rosland Hetherington. He is also survived by his sister, Susan Donald (Bob), and numerous nieces and nephews.
Royce began his successful career in pharmaceutical sales, which he dedicated himself to until his retirement in 2000. During his professional journey, he met the love of his life, Merle, and together they embraced life’s adventures in various cities before settling in Kelowna in 1975. On March 28, 1964, they exchanged vows, and recently celebrated 59 years of marriage.
Throughout his life, Royce exemplified unwavering dedication as a volunteer. From 1988 to 2021, Royce’s passion for community service led him to dedicate his time as a volunteer for the Okanagan Sun Junior Football Team. His involvement commenced when his son Mark played on the team for two years, and his son-in-law Greg Hewko for five years. Royce served as a committed member of the Board of Directors for 30 years, assuming key roles such as President for two years and Team Registrar for 15 years.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the Palliative Care team for their compassionate support, as well as Dr. Paul Hart for his unwavering dedication and exceptional care.
A Celebration of Life to honour the memory of Royce Hetherington will take place on FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2023, at 1:00 pm, at the SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME (2020 Springfield Rd, Kelowna, BC). Friends, relatives, and acquaintances are warmly invited to join the family in commemorating Royce’s life.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Royce’s honour can be made to the Okanagan Sun Junior Football Team (www.okanagansun.ca), an organization that held a special place in his heart, via an e-transfer to oksunfinance@shaw.ca.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Service
FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2023, at 1:00 pm
Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME
Share with Others:
Okanagan Sun Junior Football Team, an organization that held a special place in his heart (e-transfer to oksunfinance@shaw.ca) Link: www.okanagansun.ca
Service Information
Service Details
The service for HETHERINGTON, Royce is scheduled for FRIDAY, JULY 21, 2023, at 1:00 pm. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.
Address & Contact for Service Location:
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME
2020 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
My sincere condolences to the family. I was a childhood friend of Corbie, so I knew Royce as her dad. He loved his family, and was a good role model for them.
Carole and I pass on our condolences to you and your family.
My thoughts are with the family. Growing up as a teenager, Royce was like an uncle, always ready with a story, a laugh and ride home. His and Merle’s support, friendship, and advice continued well into adulthood. One day I will see you again Royce and we can have a rematch of High Chicago or Deuces Wild.
As a long time neighbor at Waters Edge I am saddened to hear of Royce’s passing. Condolences to you Merle and the entire family. May he rest in peace.
Wonderful man so valued by the football community in Kelowna, the BC Football Conference and the
Canadian Football Conference. So respected by so many. Our deepest condolences to his family. He will be missed
Corby and Greg, We are thinking of you and all of your family. With heartfelt condolences, Craig and Elena Tostenson and family
Dear Merle and Family: So sorry to hear of Royce’s passing. We always enjoyed his company when we met. You are in our thoughts and prayers.. David and Marilyn
Our sincere condolences for your loss Meryl, Cobie and Mark and families….
Our deepest sympathy to your family
Love, the Letkeman Family
I want to express my sincere condolences for such a profound loss to all of you. I know how close you are as a family and I really hope you can all pull together to get through this painful time. Daunte Cory Rich and I are sending lots of love.
Mark and family! Sorry to hear about your dad! I bet you have made him very proud with all your accomplishments in this community! I will be thinking about you !
Blessings
Bill
Merle- to you and your family – a great man has passed. Such a kind dedicated man to the Okanagan Sun’s football team. He will be remembered in his regular spot at the end of the field in his chair supporting/cheering/commenting on all the plays. xx