Warren passed away at Hospice House late afternoon May 19, 2016.
Warren was born in Onion Lake, Alberta. He was especially close to his grandparents James and Margaret Cardinal who lived their lives in this small Native community. In 1948 the family moved to Prince George where Warren attended high school.
His working career began at this time in the construction industry. He enjoyed the outdoors and hands on experience operating heavy equipment. This work included pipeline projects, hydroelectric dam projects and highway construction. He would tell his children with pride when crossing the first Kelowna Bridge that he helped build it.
This was also the beginning of his strong support of the union movement and thus began his lifelong membership in the International Union of Operating Engineers. He was a proud member of this union for over 60 years. He moved from heavy equipment operator to a staff position in the union in 1972 first working as dispatcher and then as business agent working out of the Kamloops, Victoria and Burnaby offices. He would travel to various work locations helping members settle issues and disputes. This was the highlight of his working career – he loved doing it.
He retired to Kelowna in 1989.
Warren was predeceased by his son Kyle Warren, his father Lloyd Cardinal, his mother Edna Ogbourne, his brothers Raymond, Allan, Gary and sister Maxine.
Warren is survived by his wife Bette, son Kevin, sister June and her husband Allan Howse, brother Maurice and many nephews, nieces and cousins.
At Warren’s request there will be a graveside service only.
The family would like to thank Dr. Alexis Thomson, Dr. Edward Welsh and the Palliative Care Team for their care and attention to Warren. Special thanks to Deanna and the staff at Hospice House.
In lieu of flowers, donations to The Salvation Army or Hospice House would be appreciated.
Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC.
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