Tribute

In Loving Memory of Omer Octave Joseph Ayotte

December 4, 1938 – February 17, 2025

With heartfelt sadness, we announce the passing of Omer Octave Joseph Ayotte, who passed away peacefully on February 17, 2025, in Summerland, British Columbia, at the age of 86.

Born on December 4, 1938, in St. Paul, Alberta, Omer was the first child of Aurore and Arthur Ayotte. His life was one marked by dedication—to his work, his family, and his community.

Omer began his professional life as a psychiatric nurse at Essondale. While working at the Columbian newspaper in New Westminster, he met Carolyn, the love of his life. They married on June 4, 1965, and together built a life filled with love, hard work, and deep family bonds.

On September 13, 1970, Omer and Carolyn moved to Oliver, B.C., with their two young children, Michael and Heather. There, they purchased and operated the Reople Hotel for three years. Omer then transitioned into concrete and construction work, eventually co-founding A&A Contracting with his late business partner and friend, William (Bill) Arsenault. In 1980, their family grew again with the arrival of their third child, Conrad Arsenault.

Throughout the years, Omer built numerous homes, swimming pools, and commercial buildings, leaving a tangible legacy across the South Okanagan. He and Carolyn also owned and operated a pool store and The Gift Tree, working side by side in both family and business life.

Omer was a proud and active member of his community. He served with the Oliver Volunteer Fire Department, was a devoted member of the Elks Lodge #267, a member of the Oliver curling club and one of his many highlights was competing with the BC Elks Provincial Curling Team. Curling was a passion of his, along with fishing, hunting, and camping—activities he loved most when shared with family and friends. He passed these traditions down to his sons and grandsons, creating a deep family connection to the outdoors.

A devoted family man, Omer was a proud father and “Papa.” He cherished every moment with his children and grandchildren—celebrating births, birthdays, graduations, weddings, and many unforgettable family vacations. His presence was a steady, loving force in their lives.

Omer and Carolyn later moved to Penticton, where he worked alongside his son-in-law Robert Milanovic until his retirement. He spent his final years in Summerland, enjoying the peace of the farm and the company of his loved ones.

Omer is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Carolyn, and his children: Micheal, Heather (Robert), and Conrad. He was a proud grandfather to Alex (Heather), Alyssa (Nairn), Adam (Morgan), Austin (Marissa), Amanda, AJ, Randy, and Kristen, and a joyful great-grandfather to Mason, Kyliana, Brooklyn, Rosie, Jasper, Taigg, Banks, Indigo, and Mylie.

He is also survived by his siblings: David (Teresa), Lorraine (Ernie), Rene (Debbie), and Heather, along with a large extended family who loved and admired him deeply.

Omer was predeceased by his business partner and friend, William Arsenault, and by other cherished family members.

Omer’s life was one of hard work, quiet strength, and deep devotion. His legacy lives on in every home he built, every life he touched, and every memory shared by those who loved him. Dad “Papa” you will be sadly missed and forever in our hearts.

Memorial Service Details

A celebration of Omer’s extraordinary life will be held on Saturday, July 26, 2025 @1:00pm. The service will take place at the Oliver Elk’s Lodge (477 Bank Ave, Oliver, BC). Family and friends are warmly invited to join in honoring Omer’s legacy, sharing cherished memories, and celebrating the life of a remarkable man.