Thomas "Swede" Warren Knox

March 2, 1948 – March 22, 2021

With breaking hearts we announce the passing of Swede Knox at Kelowna General Hospital on March 22. Swede never complained but he lost a long and courageous battle with cancer.

He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years (Maureen), his sons Ryan (Mercedes) and Brett (Inna). He was the proud grandfather of Jayden, Tori, Natalie and Chloe. He will be missed by his siblings: Senga Chickoski, Don Hunt (Doreen), Cathy Bertwell and Jim (Gayle) Knox as well as many friends, nieces, nephews and, of course by his dog Rowdy.

Swede was born in Edmonton where he graduated from the Instrumentation Technology Program. In later years he achieved a Bachelor of Administration from Athabasca University. He worked for 28 years as a linesman for the NHL where he officiated over 2200 games and several Stanley Cup Finals.

In retirement Swede stayed very active. He loved to golf, dance (both ballroom and country) and travel. Since 2008, he found great joy wintering in San Tan Valley Arizona with all our Canadian and American friends. He also loved entertaining, cooking, gardening, playing card games and just sitting on his back deck listening to music and watching the golfers go by.

Swede was kind, thoughtful, dependable and fun loving. He was a private person but he had a great sense of humour. There was nothing he could not build or fix when he put his mind to it.

Special thanks to the doctors and nurses of Four East who provided comfort in Swede’s final days. Dr. B. Campling of the Southern Interior Cancer Centre provided straight forward advice and support throughout Swede’s journey.

If desired, in lieu of flowers, donations to your local SPCA would be appreciated.

A private celebration of life will be held at a later date when gatherings are permitted.

Condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.firstmemorialfuneralkelowna.com

Arrangements entrusted with First Memorial Funeral Services, Kelowna, BC 250-762-2299