We Remember
OSTAFICIUK, William
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It is with great sadness that the family of William George Ostaficiuk announce the passing of their strong Bill at 74 years of age. He passed away suddenly after a brief and courageous battle with cancer on November 28, 2020 in Kelowna, BC. Bill was a kind and loving husband to Mona, and a loving father to his daughters, Sheri (Matt) and Cindy, and a caring grandfather to Brynn, Amy and Jordan. Bill also leaves behind his sister Suzanne (Shane). Bill and is predeceased by his parents, Nancy and Bill, and younger brother Lawrence.
Bill was born in Taber, Alberta and grew up in the rural farming community of Vauxhall, Alberta. He was the oldest of three children of Nancy and Bill Ostaficiuk Sr. He attended school in Vauxhall and during his teen years became an amateur radio operator (HAM), something he enjoyed doing with his father. He also competed in boxing and became the Alberta Golden Gloves champion in the early 1960’s.
After graduating from Vauxhall High School, Bill joined the RCMP. During his 38 years he served and protected the communities of Kamloops, Kelowna, Lytton, Victoria, Colwood, Princeton, Boston Bar, Summerland and finished his career in Kelowna. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant and was the detachment commander of several detachments. As a member of the RCMP, he was a firearms instructor and while in Princeton he was a volunteer fire fighter. After retiring from the RCMP he continued to keep busy and worked as a water technician for 7 years.
Bill lead an active life. He enjoyed playing golf, curling, fast pitch, and slow pitch. He was an avid outdoorsman and was passionate about fly fishing and hunting. He belonged to the Kelowna & District Fish and Game Club. He was an excellent marksman and took part in the 1983 BC Games in small bore rifle. He also participated in firearms competitions in Washington. He enjoyed snowmobiling, camping, riding his ATV and exploring the back country as well as travelling. In the past 12 years he loved to go to his cabin on the Similkameen River where he could enjoy the outdoor life to the fullest.
He was an intelligent man and a “go to guy” for friends and family on many subjects. He will be missed by all that knew him.
The family wishes to extend special thanks to Dr. E.K. Higgins for always being there when he needed her.
A graveside service for family will be held at a future date.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill’s honour at the BC Wildlife Federation.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Thinking of you!
Mona, the Ostaficiuk family and Suzanne and Shane, We were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Bill. Bill was a wonderful person that will be missed by all. May all the great memories of Bill comfort all of you at this time. We will be thinking of all of you.
Mona and family… my sincerest condolences. I was saddened to hear of Bill’s passing.
Mona, I’m so deeply sorry for your loss of your wonderful husband, Bill. I have very fond memories of working with you both. Bill always had a smile & had a strong presence. Our love & prayers are with you at this very difficult time. ❤️❤️
Mono so sorry to hear of your loss. I first met Bill in COLWOOD on the Island. If you need anything call. Bill was a good man and a great member of the Force. He contributed a lot to the RCMP over the years. Bill and Cindy
Mona and family. I first met Bill in April 1971, when he was assigned to herd me through recruit field training in Colwood. I immediately respected his depth of knowlege, mannerisms and dry humour. We spent hours Sunday evening after dinner, chatting with “dad” in Alberta, from his VE7 AoW ham radio, or taking his “383-4 on the floor” Dodge for a spin. I still chuckle over his whining –“put some glass in that hole over there” as he made me drive on night shift and I liked the window down!!! but he didn’t…..Memories….one of our greatest gifts…….you have many of your own, cherish them. I am shocked and saddened and we all share your loss but are also thankful to have shared some time with Bill.
Mona and family: So sorry to hear of your loss. I have so many memories of working with Bill. He was an impressive police officer and an exceptional friend.
Dearest Mona & family,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I have great memories of working with both of you. Bill was an incredibly genuine person. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Mona and Family ; so sorry to hear of Bill’s passing. It was nice to have met you during your time in Kimberley. I too , lost Margo (10 years ago) at 50 to MS. I have moved on as I’m sure you will in time. Take care Mona ! Mark and Gerri.