It is with heavy hearts and great sadness that we announce the passing of Arthur “Art” William Francis Coles in West Kelowna on March 3, 2022, at the age of 85.
Art was born on May 20, 1936, in Kelowna where he was raised. As a young man, he never travelled too far from home to start his working life. He moved back to Kelowna to start a family and eventually settled in Okanagan Centre, working at Knox Mountain Metals until his retirement at age 64. This was where his passion for scrap metal started. He wouldn’t pass a penny on the ground since it was made of copper. If Art wasn’t welding or enjoying a Sportsman cigarette and a warm Pilsner with his friends or neighbors, he would be out casting a line at his favorite fishing hole, Beaver Lake. He also loved working (playing) on his property where he had created his little hobby farm with goats and a miniature horse. He always said they were to keep the grass cut but everyone knew he did it for all the kids that came to visit.
Art was predeceased by his parents Henry and Violet, and siblings Harry, Fred, Vivian, Dorothy, Bill, and Bob. He was also predeceased by his second wife, Bev Boyko (Dec.10, 2011) with whom he had 2 children, Cory (Naomi) and Stacey “Tootsie” (Bryan) who all miss him dearly. He will also be sadly missed by his children from his first marriage, Brenda (John), Art (Kim), and Nadene (Kirk). Also missing him are his grandchildren Michelle (Mike), Cassie, Nikita (Navin), Clay, Crystal, Brody, Bowman, Trinity, Kadin, and Riah (aka Smiley) whom “Puppa” had a special spot in his heart for. As well as many great-grandchildren who he loved dearly.
Art is further survived by his siblings Gord (Pam), Ken (Mary), Frank, Audrey, and George.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Art on May 21, 2022, at 1:00 pm in Vernon at 5525 Okanagan Landing Road. Further details can be requested by calling Providence Funeral Homes at 250-493-1774 or emailing noreply@providencefuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Kelowna Army, Navy & Air Force would be welcome as Art was a member for many years.
WE LOVE YOU, DAD.