We Remember

TOMPKINS, Kelvin “Kelly” Shane

November 16, 1963 — November 29, 2025

Kelly Tompkins passed away peacefully at home in Kelowna, BC, on November 29, 2025, at the age of 62 years.

He is survived by his brothers Rod, Terry, Ken and their families; Susanne Rados & Sean Furze and their family; and many friends.  Kelly was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Ruby.

A beloved son, brother, and friend, Kelly’s gentle spirit, friendliness, and integrity touched the lives of all who knew him. Born and raised in Kelowna, he lived his life according to what he knew was right and good, leaving a mark of warmth and sincerity on our community.

Kelly was known for his friendly and profoundly kind nature. Though by nature a quiet person who didn’t seek the spotlight, he possessed a quiet strength and loyalty. He was a champion for his friends, an ambassador for those with Down Syndrome, standing up for his rights, boundaries, and the well-being of those who could not voice their own needs.

A man of many interests, Kelly had an enduring love affair with the 1950s, especially when it came to cars and music. He was an amazing dancer, always ready to hit the floor. His greatest hero was Elvis Presley, and his most memorable trip was a pilgrimage to Memphis to see Graceland, a journey that brought him immense joy.

Kelly’s big heart extended to animals. While living at Susanne and Sean’s, he was the beloved companion to a household menagerie including a duck, a rabbit, and two cats. In a testament to his loving nature, all the animals loved to sleep with Kelly!

He was a man of dedication and a strong work ethic. Over the years, Kelly held several jobs. He took immense pride in his meticulous work, whether he was cleaning golf shoes at the Kelowna Golf and Country Club, a job he performed better than anyone else they ever hired, or carefully cleaning the common areas in a condominium building, where his kind attention endeared him to the senior residents.

Kelly Tompkins showed us all how to live with grace, compassion, and an unshakeable moral compass. He will be deeply missed by his family, Susanne and Sean, his many loyal friends, and all the lives he brightened simply by being himself.

A celebration of Kelly’s life will be held in the New Year.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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