We Remember
THOMAS, Dale Arthur
November 26, 1954 — October 3, 2026
We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Dale on Saturday, October 3, 2026. He is missed by his partner Yvonne; his two daughters, Caitlyn and Erin (Devan); and his siblings, Bev, Wayne (Debbie), and Shiela. He was predeceased by parents Irene and Kenneth, and brother Daryl.
Dale was born and raised in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He studied microbiology at the University of Saskatchewan and environmental health at BCIT in Burnaby. He accomplished a successful career in environmental public health in Burnaby and in the Okanagan. He went on to work in occupational hygiene in Kelowna. He enjoyed his coworkers, the technical challenges this career required, and everything sciences.
Dale found great pleasure and pride in our home and garden. He loved to eat peaches from our tree and tomatoes from the vine. He always found great joy in the beauty of nature, especially in BC and the prairies. He liked to impart his wisdom and knowledge onto his friends and family, inspiring us to try new things. An avid outdoorsman and expert campfire creator, he could get a fire going no matter the rain or wind. He taught his kids outdoor and practical handy skills. When he challenged himself to try new things, most often he would excel at them.
A lifetime lover of music, Dale encouraged his kids to learn new instruments, and practiced the guitar himself. He filled our lives with music. He was extremely active his entire life, spending it swimming, biking, hiking, canoeing, skiing, and trying new exercise trends. In retirement he was delighted to discover the extreme sport of pickleball. He loved good jokes, good food, good beer, and good friends. Always intentionally devoted to his physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing, Dale was tenacious in pursuit of self-improvement. In adulthood he found great peace in Buddhist teachings.
Dale was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in May, 2026. He fought with courage and determination, and he left this world peacefully, all on his own terms and surrounded by those who loved him. He wanted everyone to know that he loved his family; his wife, his daughters, and his siblings. He loved his dogs, and he dearly loved his friends.
Our family wants to thank his family doctor, the staff at BC Cancer Centre, the palliative care team, and Kelowna Hospice House.
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Thinking of Yvonne, family and friends at this difficult time.