We Remember
PAYNTER, Geoffrey
—
Geoff passed away after a brief illness on August 23, 2016 at the age of 69. He is survived by his very loving wife of 33 years, Marci; 5 children: Chandra (Bill) Stevenson, Travis (Sheri) Paynter and their daughter Paige, Brent (Renata) Detta and their children Teigen and Palmer; Nigel (Hayley) Paynter and their children Hattie and River, Pete (Tonia) Detta and their daughter Taryn; he is also survived by his mother Sheila Paynter, 5 siblings: Gillian (Mike) Evans, Farlie Paynter, Henry (Barb) Paynter, David (Laurie) Paynter, Alisen Paynter and numerous nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his father Henry at age 98. A Celebration of Geoff’s Life will be held on Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 3:00 pm at Emmanuel Church, 2600 Hebert Road, West Kelowna, BC. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Plan Okanagan, 1650 Bernard Ave., Kelowna, BC V1Y 6R9 or Kelowna Hospice House, 2035 Ethel Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2Z6.
Some reflections about the life of Geoffrey Paynter
Geoffrey, from a pioneering farming family in Westbank, was a business man, entrepreneur, grape grower, developer, a caring, compassionate, positive human being with a huge heart for all.
Geoffrey started haying in the hayfields on Shannon Lake Road (now a part of the Shannon Lake Golf Course) when he was 12 years old. He worked for a long time with his uncle Art and his cousin George whom he always admired. He served the community in the 70’s as a Director on the Irrigation District and then again as the regional District Director for this area from 1975-1981 and then from 1990-1993.
He had an incredible work ethic which he passed on to all his children: Chandra, Travis, Nigel, and later on to Brent and Peter as well. He worked on the family farm until 1990 when he quit the farm to do pursue other opportunities. It was in this time that he logged his property in order to provide for his family.
As a developer, Geoffrey is best known for a couple of subdivisions, Shannon Woods, which he developed on a handshake with Sherwin Goerlitz and Tuscany Drive which he developed with Bob Levy.
He was a member of an organization called CAFE (Canadian Association of Family Enterprises) which promotes a smooth transition of assets from one generation to the next.
He planted grapes a number of years ago on property that his sons Travis and Nigel own on Glencoe Road. When these young men and their wives decided to put a wine shop and a wedding venue on their property, he was there to not just advise them, but to get dressed in his work clothes to work every day on the property. His signature is noticed from the rock wall at the entry, to all the finishing work in the concrete at their winery on Glencoe Road called Off The Grid Organic Winery.
He had a fabulous relationship with all of his kids (his family and Marci’s family were blended in 1983 and their adventures continued as a family.) He loved to travel so travel he and Marci did: 15 cruises, lots of trips with kids and grandkids –Disneyworld, Disneyland, around North America in a Dodge Grand Caravan with 5 teenagers!! And a wonderful trip to Europe 2 years ago.
Geoff and Marci loved taking people out in their houseboat which they did very often – actually 80 times last year. This year they offered their houseboat to 4 groups for fund raisers to help raise funds for such organizations as PLAN Okanagan, Canadian Mental Health Association, Easter Seals and the Catholic School.
He adored and worked with all 5 of his children and cherished his 6 grandkids.
He will be known forever for his generosity of time and money, his gentle spirit, his expertise in so many areas, his unconditional love for his family and loyalty for his friends. He will be sorely missed in this community.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”
Service
Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 3:00 pm
Location
Emmanuel Church
Share with Others:
Plan Okanagan, 1650 Bernard Ave., Kelowna, BC V1Y 6R9 or Kelowna Hospice House, 2035 Ethel Street, Kelowna, BC, V1Y 2Z6
Service Information
Service Details
The service for PAYNTER, Geoffrey is scheduled for Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 3:00 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:
Emmanuel Church
2600 Hebert Road West Kelowna, BC
Phone:
Special Requests:
None.
Funeral Pointers:
Condolences
Marci and family, we are heartsick to have learned of your loss. Not only is Geoff’s passing a huge loss to you and yours but the community as a whole, he will be missed and remembered fondly. We are thinking of you all.
Kevin, Danielle, Frank, Mike and the entire La Cucina’s staff.
So sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing, love you Marci I’m here for you if you need anything.
Heather
Marci and family: we extend our deepest sympathies. We have so many fond memories of being neighbours: when we put up a new fence; the number of times Geoff tossed the ball over the fence for Ebony; the day we became neighbours and Ebony jumped into your fish pond. We (Don & I) were blessed to live next door to you. As you move forward, may God continue to bless and keep you and surround you with His Angels of Mercy and Endurance.
I remember playing badminton with him. Our deepest sympathies go to all the family.
Words seem so trite and not nearly enough to ease the pain you all must feel. I sincerely wish to extend my heartfelt sympathy to you all. I just saw Geoff at our high school reunion which everyone reunited and celebrated our younger years with such enthusiasm! It was nice to have had that visit for all of us including your Geoff
. Love Donna
We are sorry to hear of Geoffrey passing . We have been neighbours with the Paynter families for over 25 years. Wonderful , generous, hard working people. May all your wonderful memories comfort you during this time , and may God give each and every one of you peace and comfort .
Marci, Sheila & family,
So sorry to hear this sad news. Sincere condolences from another Westbank pioneer family member.
Marci and family, We are so sorry to hear about Geoff passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
What a tragedy that he has left us so soon. Condolences to Marci and the family. My thoughts are with you.
Marci, I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts are with you.
To the whole Paynter family, we are very sorry. This is such sad news and such a loss for the whole community. Geoff was very respected by us. Always such a kind man and always took a few moments to chat when we would run into him and Marci. Our hearts and prayers go out to you all. Phil and Kari Taneda and girls.
To All The Paynter Family
From farmer, to Regional District to businessman, Geoff Paynter did it all, with a smile on his face and kind words to say. My father used to banter with him when he was Regional District Director and Geoff used to laugh and say Stan you give a good debate you always kept me on my toes, my Dad would say well someone has too, then they would laugh. Westbank lost an important key the 23rd of August. His intelligence, his key business knowledge ,his personality will be missed but Westbank was lucky to have had Geoff Paynter as a pioneer family resident.
My condolences to All Paynter Family
Dear Marci and Sheila,
We are so sorry to hear of your very sad news. Cherish your wonderful memories. We are thinking of you at this most difficult time.
With love,
Ruth and Dave Johnston
Marcia and family, words escape us but feelings don’t. We are sad to have lost a great friend who was a role model in every way. GEOFFREY was the most authentic man and leaves a legacy with his family – his pride and Joy. Much love Keith and Jayne Fosbery
Dear Marci and extended Paynter family,
We are so sorry to hear about Geoffs’ passing. We have such great memories of staying with you during the summer of ’09. You are in our thoughts and prayers. May you receive comfort and peace during this difficult time.
Marci and family
I cannot tell you how shocked I was to hear of Geoff’s passing. He was a remarkable man. Please accept our sincere condolences.
Lani and Gary Bullock
Remembering Geoff as kids growing up here. You are all in our prayers.
My dearest and precious friend..I am torn to see Geoff in this column. I want to offer my deepest condolence to you and your family. I’m very sorry that i am not there to hold you and tell you everything will be ok. Geoffery and you have added so much to your friendships and have built a beautiful life together with a support system that follows you. I know he will never leave us in spirit and will be remembered forever. I will make a sincere effort to be at the funeral. i loved that guy. I pray that your friends reach out and hold you under their wing as you have done for so many in the past. I love you girl and remember that i am with you. xox. May Geoff rest in God’s arms looking down at us thinking we will all be together one day.
Lynn Hale
So sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing. What a shock, another fellow school mate gone. Geoff’s contribution to the Westside through representing regional district and his subdivisions will always be remembered. What a loss to Marci and the Paynter family. Such a knowledgable and kind, generous man.
Marci
I was so shocked when David called me yesterday morning to tell me about Geoff. He taught both me and my kids life lessons by his words and actions.He truly led by example, helped everybody and any body, myself included.One of the great ones for sure. Marci you and yours are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. Gayle,David and Lisa Chandler
Dearest Marci and the Paynter family so sorry for your loss..He will be missed by all who knew him..Sending my deepest sympathyfor you and family..
Dear Marci and Family
Our hearts, hugs and prayers go out to you all. We are so saddened to hear of Geoff’s passing… He was a wonderful man and always had a smile and a hug anytime or anywhere we saw him…. We will truly, truly miss him …… God Bless to you all…
Marci, from far away in Tasmania I send my shocked and heartfelt sympathy to you and family on the death of my Canadian cousin Geoffrey. I remember how welcoming you both were to me when I visited all those years ago. What a shame you never made it out to Australia. Thinking of you and sending strength and comfort at this sad and difficult time.
Cousin Pam.
Marci and family. I can only guess about the void that you feel today. May your memories serve to fill and bridge those times when you are missing Geoff and may you grow stronger always knowing the impact of his blessings in your life and world.
Marci and family
We are so very sorry to hear about Geoff. We will always remember him as one af the best.
Marci and family, I just can’t find the words to express the sympathy I’m feeling for you at this time. Geoff was such a wonderful person. Together you did so much to help others. What a terrible loss! You are constantly in my thoughts and I pray that you can find comfort in knowing that so many share in your sorrow.
Marci & family – We are very saddened by Geoff’s passing. He’s always been there…through school, through our working years, just down the street. It doesn’t seem possible we won’t be stopping on the side of the road to catch up on news. Sheila and Dad started their lives together – the Sandersons, Reeces, Paynters – all ‘old families’ in the area intertwined in so many ways!
I’m glad you both were at our 50th school reunion in June – many old grads have sent messages expressing their shock and sadness. With hugs and love, Jennifer & Gary
Marci, I am so sorry and shocked to hear of Geoff’s passing. He was such a kind and gentle person, I will always have great memories of him. He will be saddly missed.
So sorry for your loss – an amazing man and the whole family is amazing. Blessings to you all.
Dear Marci and family, Our hearts are saddened by the loss of our dear cousin. We had so many wonderful times with you and Geoff and our memories of these times will continue as we grieve with you the loss of Geoff. May God provide you with the much needed comfort at this time.
Dear Shelia and Marci and family,
We are so very sad to hear of the loss of your son and husband. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family members.
With our best wishes for you at this time of special memories of one dearly loved.
Nancy and Dick Longman
Dear Marci and Sheila – I was shocked to read of Geoff’s passing – I recalled our many good times on the regional district board together…. a sad sad loss. My condolences. Sharron
Dear Marci and all the Paynter Family,
A sad day is upon us, and letting go is one of the hardest things we have to do in our lives. But knowing Geoff is in a place free from hurt and pain makes letting go a little bit easier. Please accept my deepest condolences.”
Another Westbank Kid
Kim Kendal
Our condolences Jody and I have many fond memories of Jeff and he will be missed
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. I wish you peace to bring you comfort, courage for the days ahead and loving memories to hold forever in your heart. Love you, Sharie
Marci and family, we are so sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing. May your memories of what a great person he was help the grief as it washes over you and your family. God bless.
We are very sorry for your loss. Geoff was a wonderful, kind person and truly a gentle man. We always remember how he went out of his way one weekend to give our children an unforgettable experience on his earth moving equipment. Our thoughts are with you all.
Thinking of you all at this difficult time and sending lots of love and hugs
My condolences for this sad loss, to all the family.
We are so sorry to hear this. Marci we are sending you lots of love and prayers as you deal with this loss. Everyone was truely blessed to have known Geoff
To the entire Paynter family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Geoff was so very kind, always smiling and a fun classmate in high school. Many, many fond memories. Gone way too soon.
Love and hugs to all of you.
gail (betuzzi) willner
So sorry for your loss, the Griffin and Paynter families grew up together in Westbank. I have lived in the States since 1971. Was interested to hear of his life. Valerie
Travis and Nigel, I am so sorry for your loss. Your father’s legend lives on throughout the community he helped build. Thoughts are with you all.
Dear Paynter Family, We are sad to learn of Geoffrey’s passing. The Haker family &Paynters have been good friends since the 1930’s. Geoffrey & Jim went to school together. Best Love to all-esp. Sheila & Gillian. xoxo Frank, Helen, Jim, Chesel & Hamish Haker.
To Marci and Family, It was with great sadness I learned of Geoff’s passing. He truly was a great guy. Please accept condolences from the Bell’s.
Tim Bell
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you Marci and family.
Dear Marci and Family
Please accept my deepest sympathy on the passing of Geoff. He was an active part of our community over the years and will be missed.
God Bless
Len Novakowski
Geoff was so warm and pleasant on the few occasions we spoke with you, Marcia, and him. May your good memories keep you going.
It was a shock to hear of Geoffrey’s passing. I hope Marci, Sheila, and all the family will find peace in the wonderful memories Geoff’s life provided, our hearts go out to the family.
I have great memories of Geoffrey, at the fruit stand with the kids and I know how much he loved them. I also remember how happy he was when he and Marcie were getting married. David and Geoffrey’s sense of humor made working at the packing house fun. God bless him.
Out thoughts and love are with Marci and the whole Paynter clan – we are so sorry for your loss. May his spirit shine through all those whom he touched.
Dearest Marci & Family – so very sorry to hear of your dear Geoffrey’s death. My prayers are with you and the family and God Bless you all – I send love & hugs — Carol Evans
It is with sadness that Don and I learned about Geoff. He touched so many hearts in so many ways, including ours. Dearest Marci, please know that you and your amazing family are in our thoughts and in our hearts. Hugs The Kirkeys
Marci,
We are so sorry for your loss. There are no words that can be said to help ease the pain except for time. Sometimes it takes the heart longer to heal what the mind already knows. We are all in our prayers. Love you.
To all the Paynter family,
We send sincere condolences to your family on Geoff’s passing. We have appreciated your family as neighbors for the past 40 years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad time.
Jerry & Attie Horovatin
Marci and the Paynter family, it is with great sadness that I and the entire community of Westbank feel your loss. As a long time friend of your family I know how much you will all miss Geoff and his unique personality. A witty, rye sense of humour, a willingness to lend a hand whenever possible, a constant thinker on resolving technical challenges with the ability to just make things work. We are going to miss you Geoffrey! Good bless and god speed.
Ben Stewart
Indeed a shock to hear this news. Love to the Paynter family from the Burnett Family.
Marci, we are so sorry to hear of the sudden passing of your dear husband, Geoffrey, who impacted so many people for good. Please know you and your family are in our hearts and prayers at this time.
Very saddened to read about Geoffrey’s passing. Marci, at all the grad functions Geoff always made me feel special and part of the class. I shall never forget him. May you find strength in the love of family and in the warm embrace of friends!
Dear Marci and family, Our family is so sorry to hear of Geoff’s passing. May there be comfort in knowing that someone so special will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Lee Ann and Troy and family
Dear Marci
We were shock to hear of Geoff’s passing. We will miss him.
Wishing you Peace to bring comfort, Courage to face the days ahead and Loving memories to forever hold in your hearts.
Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day.
Our thoughts and Prayers are with you and your Family during this difficult time.
This has been such heart-wrenching news about Geoff’ sudden passing. My heart goes out to you all. I didn’t have the privilege of knowing Geoff personally but hearing about him has been inspiring. As well as all his talents and accomplishments, I was touched above all to learn what kind of man he was… “a caring, compassionate, positive human being with a huge heart for all.” What a wonderful legacy. The picture attached is of Geoff when he presented his mother with her birthday cake July 2. My deepest sympathy to each one of you.
Dear Marci & Family,
Alex & I were deeply saddened to hear of Geoff’s passing. He was a good man who lived from his heart and he will live on in all our hearts. The day after his passing a humming bird hovered for an unusually long time outside the window where we were having a coffee. We believe that was Geoff saying farewell and letting us know that his should lives on.
Love & hugs to you all, Brenda & Alex
Dear Marci,
My sincere condolences to all of the Paynter family. I had the honor of working with Geoff on a number of projects on the West side, both when he was an RD Director and during his many volunteer positions on various committees to try to make the Westbank community a great place to live . As a consultant that has worked alongside numerous politicians, I respected Geoff as a top drawer man…intelligent, a visionary and always with his heart in the right place, for the people. I last saw him just a few months ago at the Capri Hotel where he recounted his story of the new vineyard and winery operation that his family had built. He was so proud of you! Our prayers are with you.
Ed and Sue Grifone
Dear Marci and family
Im so sorry to hear of Geoffs passing. He was such a wonderful person. I often thought of him and the first jobs he gave me at the fruit stand, the ESSO and at Shannon Woods. He will truely be missed. My heart goes out to you. Love Daniel
Dearest Marcia, I was very saddened to learn of the passing of your dear husband Geoff. You are very much in my prayers as I wish you much Peace, and Comfort as you and your family deal with your loss. May many happy memories come forward to help you all heal. Warmest Regards and Hugs, Gretchen
Oh I’m so so sorry to hear about Geoff ..
I’m am just seeing this posting now as every few years I folllow what’s up in the Paynter family .i have the fondest memories of my time spent on the Paynter farm back in the late 70’s ,, Geoff was always so kind to me making my sometimes days of strife more bearable.. Geoff was always uplifting and sweet to me .. I am so sad to hear about Geoff passing .. my love to all of you who might remember me 💖. Love tammy-joy