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JUDIESCH, Donald O'Neil Passed away peacefully with his family by his side November 25, 2013 at the age of 89. Don is survived by his loving and caring wife Pearl (nee Malysh) of 65 wonderful and happy years; son Wayne (Linda) of Kelowna, daughter Karen (Bill) of Swift Current, Saskatchewan, granddaughters Christine of Swift Current, Casey (Tyler) of Kamloops, grandson PJ "Butch" (Jenn) of Kamloops, great-grandchildren Paige, Mekenna, Colton, and Camryn all of Kamloops and extended family in Kelowna and Kamloops and many nieces and nephews. Don was predeceased by his brothers Fred and Clarence, sister Jean and parents Thomas and Winifred Judiesch, who he now is with again. Don was born May 30, 1924 in Milestone, Saskatchewan and a few years later moved to Melfort, Saskatchewan where he grew up in the little community of Pleasant Valley, where he revisited just a few years ago. After finishing school he moved to Victoria where he played saxophone and clarinet in a dance band while working for Bapco Paints. In the early 40's he moved to Vancouver where he met the one and only true love of his life Pearl. They married January 31, 1948. Wayne was born in June of 1949 and life as a family man began for Dad, many a story of the tough times, but also happy times. The family moved in the early 50's to Vernon where dad worked for NOCA Dairy as a driver salesman. Dad always had an interest in health so packed up the family and moved to Toronto where he got his degree in Massage Therapy, going to school during the day and working as a baker during the nights, it was a long tough year. Moving back to Vancouver dad worked as a Massage Therapist at the University Club of Vancouver as well as having a practice at home. In March 1964, Karen or "Pumpkin" as Dad called her, was born and a new phase in parenthood began. Mom had been a drapery seamstress for years and they opened their first store and dad worked as the installer. In later years it became a family business which dad retired from in 1988 when they moved to Kelowna. Dad was the father we all strive to be, giving, kind, considerate and dedicated. A simple man with simple pleasures, he will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to all the staff at David Lloyd Jones Home for the extra caring, compassion and help through Dad's last few days and a special thanks to Troy, Courtney and Barbara who made Dad's final hours much easier. A celebration of life will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, Dad always had a love for animals, and a donation to the SPCA would be greatly appreciated. Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mem.com and searching his name under stories. Arrangements entrusted to First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC, 250-762-2299.
