Tribute

Roderick Barrington Gale passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday January 9, 2013 at home.  He was born in Kelowna, BC to Thomas and Florence Gale on August 1, 1933.  In 1942 his family moved to Langley where he lived until graduating from high school.  After graduation he moved to Terrace until moving back to Kelowna in 1976.  In 1991 he moved to Revelstoke and moved to Oliver in 1995.

Rod is survived by his wife Claudia Gale of 57 years and their three children Thomas (Helena) Gale, Cathryn Gale (D’Arcy McGibbon) and Allan (Susie) Gale and eight grandchildren; Braden, MacKenzie, Jonathon & Christian Gale and Sara, Shannon, Max & Lauren McGibbon as well as many loving nephews, nieces and other friends.

Rod touched many people’s lives during his life.  He had many interests and many occupations and businesses throughout BC.  He was a logger, truck driver, resort operator, hunting guide and chartered accountant.  He owned and operated several business including travel agencies, building supply stores, apartment buildings and a contracting business operating heavy equipment.

Rod had many hobbies over the years.  He loved to go camping with family and friends.  His biggest passion of all was flying.  In 1973 he flew his family across Canada, probably the longest flight during his flying days.  He made many a flight to the Yukon, including Dawson City and all over BC.  After he regrettably had to quit flying he took up RV-ing and enjoyed travelling with Claudia across Canada and throughout the United States.

He was a Rotarian member in Terrace for many years.  Rod seemed to volunteer most of his time helping others.  He was a very generous man with an incredible sense of humour.  He could brighten a room at the drop of a hat.  He was a loyal, honest, understanding, wise man and a “jack of all trades”.  Whatever he put his mind to he would accomplish.  He was so proud of his family and a devoted caring and kind father and grandfather.

Condolences may be sent to Claudia Gale at #4-6514 Meadows Drive, Oliver, BC  V0H 1T3 or cathygale07@gmail.com.

A celebration of life to follow – date to be determined.

Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.