Tribute

Born in Stewarton, Aryshire, Scotland to Charles and Sarah Ann (Sadie) Docherty, Arthur spent his early years in Scotland and England, years which are fondly recalled by his sisters Caroline and Janice.

Two years after marrying Patricia in 1961, she passed in a tragic drowning accident. Following Patricia’s death he accepted a job offer in Kenya.

Soon he joined the amateur operatic society and began building friendships. He met Marlene Bedford-Shaw and they were married on February 20^th, 1971. In their almost fifty years of marriage, they were always a “fixture” of whatever community they found themselves.

Moving to Canada in 1979 Arthur worked briefly in Vancouver and Chicago before accepting a position as Quantity Surveyor with BC Housing in Victoria, Vancouver Island. Here they built their own house, were part of the Victoria Theatre group, and avid square dancers, attending conventions, jamborees, and travelling throughout both Canada and the United States.

With retirement they were off in their RV exploring roads less travelled, from coast to coast and down through the United States. They enjoyed several cruises, to the Caribbean, the Panama Canal and down the coast of Mexico.

Settling in Oliver they were members of the Oliver United Church, volunteers for Meals on Wheels, and Arthur a member of a Men’s Choir. Time was enjoyed with family, Gillian and her husband Gary, their children and grandchildren in Naramata, visits from Artie and his daughters from Black Diamond, and visits from a sister and brothers, sisters-in-law, brothers-in law, nieces and nephews.  Arthur greatly enjoyed the “Timmy runs “when visiting Jack. He also leaves a step-son Brian (Rosalie), and step-grand-daughters Michelle (Mark) Jamie, Emma and Melanie (Steve), Mila.

Moving to Gallagher Lake Park, they quickly formed lasting friendships. The family are grateful to those special friends and neighbours, who supported Arthur following the passing of his beloved Marlene.

In the last few months Arthur experienced numerous health challenges. He passed away peacefully at the Penticton Regional Hospital on Tuesday, April 13. To Dr Rau and all the nurses who cared for him, we offer our sincere thanks. Mr D it was my privilege and honour to walk you home, you faced adversity with dignity and humour, M

Our dear ‘big brother’ Arfa leaves the family with images and precious thoughts of him. Your siblings, sisters-in-law Angela, Pat and brother-in-law Roger will all miss you together with your five nephews and great-nephews and nieces.  “Big Arthur” will be deeply missed by the de Lange family; he graced and enriched our lives for fifty years, shared his pride in his Scottish heritage, and challenged us with his quirky humour.

“In heaven itself, I’ll ask no more, than just a Highland welcome. _{(Robert Burns)}

A Memorial Service will take place on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at 2:00 p.m. at the Oliver United Church. Reception to Follow. Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com