It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of William George Volker, born 26th March 1932 in Innisfail, Alberta, to Robert Louis Volker and Marion Catherine Volker, and who passed away peacefully after a long illness, at Vernon Jubilee Hospital 14 September 2017.
He is survived by his wife Edyth, son Craig, Brothers Russell, Gordon and Harold and Sister Helen.
He was predeceased by his parents, son Brian, and brothers Lorne and Kenneth.
George moved from Alberta to Maple Ridge BC in 1944 with his parents and siblings where he attended Maple Ridge High School.
In 1949 at the age of 17 he joined the Royal Canadian Navy, and was based in Esquimalt BC. He had not quite completed new entry training when he was assigned to the Destroyer HMCS Sioux and was on his way to the Korean conflict. He subsequently served a total of three tours of duty on three separate ships in that UN operation. He served 25 years in the Royal Canadian Navy and saw a large part of the World in the course of his duties.
After retiring in 1974 George and Edyth ran a small farm in Salmon Arm and after a while he began a second career as a guard with the local RCMP detachment. During his time there he contributed to the community by coaching baseball, and by working as a Volunteer with the Provincial Emergency Services during the Salmon Arm Fire of 1998.
George was an avid gardener who could grow anything. He grew fresh vegetables for his family for many years and his landscaping was immaculate and the flowers overwhelming in their abundance. In this way he added beauty to the world wherever he and his family lived.
We must not forget either that he was a huge fan of the Vancouver Canucks and the BC Lions.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency, The Parkinson's Society of BC, or The Heart and Stroke Foundation of BC and the Yukon.
Services entrusted to Vernon Funeral Home 250-542-0155.
Memorial Service will take place on Saturday, October 21st at 11am at Pleasant Valley Dignity Funeral Services. A tea and a time to share and visit family will follow the service in the reception room.
Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.vernonfuneralhome.com
Arrangements under the direction of Vernon Funeral Home, Vernon, BC.
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