Raymond Frank Kachaluba passed away in the Ponderosa Hospital, Kamloops B.C. Feb.13th at the age of 80 years. He is survived by his 4 sons Robert/Kathy, Clifford/Catherine, Allan, Mark/K.C. his 4 grandchildren Marc, Tonya, Crystal, and the most recent arrival Abraham, as well as 1 great granddaughter Julia. Dad is also survived by his Sister Emilia Valer of Kelowna and predeceased by his parents and sister Marion.
Born in Corbin B.C. on Aug.7, 1931 at an early age Dad discovered the great outdoors and the freedom it brought. He joined the navy and was stationed in Victoria B.C. for the next 25 years. He served as an engineer on frigates, minesweepers, and instructed at the Fleet School. We would often be waiting on the jetty as a family for his ship the destroyer escort Terra Nova to return from traveling the world. He also served aboard this ship while they were in a peacekeeping role at the end of the Vietnam war. After retiring from the Navy, Dad worked for the B.C. Parks Branch for another 15 years in locations from Campbell River, and Salt Spring Island to Bella Coola. Dad had a strong belief in the Boy Scouts of Canada and their leadership values based on outdoor activities. He volunteered as a leader for cub packs, scout troops, and the district council of Victoria for many years. It was during these years that we were also involved, and our love of the outdoors was probably kindled from those experiences. He was very much a minimalist who traveled light and didn’t clutter his home or life with objects or unrealistic expectations. He always held a strong belief in the value of honesty and expected the same from others. He was happy to enjoy what was around him, and being close to nature was important to him. His soul is now free to explore and travel anywhere that was near and dear to his heart. The family would like to thank Dad’s 2 guardian angels Bea Stokes and Shirley Kovich whose loyalty and friendship towards our father in his time of need was truly exceptional. Our father will be interned beside his parents in the Crowsnest Pass where there will be a celebration of his life.