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Stephen Steve Hetherington
March 13, 1942 - January 19, 2012
Tribute
Hetherington, Stephen John. Beloved husband, father and grandfather went home to be with Jesus after a thankfully brief battle with renal cancer on January 19, 2012
Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has Promised to those who love him.
Stephen John Hetherington was born March 13, 1942, at the Royal Columbia Hospital in New Westminster, BC. He attended the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC and became a high school teacher- a career he desired since childhood.
He began his career as a teacher in Quesnel, BC and it was there that he met Betty-Jo. They were married on June 30, 1967. They had two sons: Eric in 1968 and Brock in 1972.
A born educator, he undertook further educational training at Queens University in Kingston, ON and later at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC during his early years as a teacher. After a long career teaching Mathematics and Social Studies, he returned to SFU to study ESL, which he taught until the end of his career in 1998.
Steve’s desire to serve led he and his wife, Betty-Jo to Japan for a brief stay to teach English. During the first 5 years of retirement, Steve and Betty-Jo tutored Asian students in ESL.
Steve served on Church boards, sang in many choirs and for the past 6 years was a very active volunteer and president with the Okanagan Gleaners. This work truly was his passion. “Feed the hungry” was his mission.
A man of honour and integrity, a gentle man who did not want any honours for himself, Steve only wanted to get the Gospel of Jesus Christ out to the world.
Steve was a loving husband and best friend, a father and a grandfather. He is predeceased by his parents, Violet and Jack. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Betty Jo, sons Eric (Kimberley), Brock (Mary), granddaughters Abigail and Ainsley, brother Eugene (Bonnie) and sister, Jill. Steve has four nephews and one niece, many cousins and many friends who made up his spiritual family.
A memorial service to be held at the Oliver Alliance Church on Saturday January 28, 2012 at 2:00 P.M.
Donations may be sent to the Okanagan Gleaners at www.okanagangleaners.ca.
He fought the good fight and completed the race.
Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com
Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.
Condolences
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From: Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service Staff
Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service Staff send our condolences to family and friends. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
From: Eric Hetherington
Relation: son
You were the best father any man could ask for. You taught me so much and instilled in me the values I hold today. I miss you terribly, but rejoice that you’ve been reunited with those who have gone before. I love you.
Your son,
Eric
From: Vicki Bains
Relation: Friend of Brock
I think my fondest memory was when Steve so very patiently tutored me in math. I’ll never forget how much his patience helped me through a difficult year. I can truly say I cared for him deeply and am saddened by his passing, however, he is with our Lord Jesus now. How blessed is that! May the Lord be with you, Betty Jo, Brock & Eric in this difficult time. My prayers remain with you daily.
Love always,
Vicki
From: MaryEm Byce
Relation: Friend of Family
Dear Betty-Jo, Eric and Brock,
You have been in my heart and prayers during this time of Joyful/Sadness. Susan has spoken about you all with such love and admiration, that I feel as if I know you. We are close frineds having met in our church choir.
My heart aches with you in your loss of your precious Steve…what a fine man he was. I know that he has been a positive influence in the lives of thousands of students and peers as well, and will be missed by all.
May each of you feel God’s loving arms around you and be filled with His wonderful peace.
With Love,
MaryEm Byce
From: Niki Yoon
Relation: I was his student and daughter
I love you, Steve. I can’t still believe it… You were my great teacher and precious family. You will be in my heart forever. Thank you for being here with us. I will miss you. Love you, Steve.
From: Laurie Myres
Relation: Friend
Along with Steve’s family and friends I am shocked at the speed of his illness. Having only known him over the past five years or so I found him to be a great family man, dedicated volunteer, and faithful Christian. May he rest in peace. My sincere condolences to Betty-Jo and all the family.
From: Marianne and Larry Bogan
Relation: Family friends
We are in disbelief. Steve was so vibrant and smiling in the recent photos from Alabama, we cannot believe he is no longer with us. He made such an impact on so many people in his life. Betty-Jo, your strength and faith are examples for us all. We pray God’s perfect peace for you and your family.
From: Linda Zlotnik (Cummings)
Relation: Old Friend
Betty-Jo, I have just read Steve’s obituary in today’s Vancouver Sun. Your Stephen sounds like the finest of men. How you will miss him! This will be a difficult time but it sounds like your family is pulling together well. Big hug from an old friend!
With love, Linda
“Those we Laughed with, Learned from, Leaned on, Loved most__Leave us the Best Memories.”
From: Andy & Sharon Burke
Relation: Friendship Baptist Church
Dear Betty- Jo and family, So sorry to hear of Steve’s sudden illness and passing. We had very high respect and admiration for a man of high morals and integrety. We will cherish the times we shared with you and have such fond memories. We will miss him dearly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. The unofficial mission statement of our church is ” Loving Jesus , Loving People” which describes Steve Hetherington Love Andy & Sharon
From: David and Janet Payan
Relation: Friendship Baptist Church
Betty-Jo and family, so sorry to hear of Steve’s sudden illness and passing. We remember you and Steve with great fondness… for the love of Christ and the love for each other that you modeled and lived out for all to see. You were a real encouragement to Janet and I as we raised our own small children at the time. I remember Steve as having great gentleness and integrity in everything he did.
God’s blessing, peace, and comfort be upon you and your family in these days ahead, we will remember you in our prayers.
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
Date & Time:
January 28, 2012
Beginning at 2:00pm
Location:
Oliver Alliance Church
36853 - 99th Street
Oliver, BC Canada V0H 1T0
A memorial service to be held at the Oliver Alliance Church on Saturday January 28, 2012 at 2:00 P.M.
36853 - 99th Street
Oliver, BC Canada V0H 1T0
Memorial Gifts
Memorial Gifts may be sent directly to:
the Okanagan Gleaners at www.okanagangleaners.ca.
Thank You Notice
Send Flowers
Flower Fantasy Flowers & Gifts Inc.
6049 Main Street, Oliver, BC
https://www.flowerfantasyoliver.com/
Local: (250) 498-0088 Toll free: (844) 498-0088
Flowers on Main & Reis Boutique
5859 Main Street, Oliver, BC
https://www.oliverflorist.com/
Local: (778) 439-2270 Toll free: (800) 665-9983
Gems and Stems at Eastside
6496 Park Drive, Oliver, BC
https://gemsandstems.com/
(250) 826-0438
Polka Dot Door Floral Design Boutique
8522 Main Street, Osoyoos, BC
https://www.polkadotdoor.net/
(250) 495-2226
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