Andrew Clovechok

Andy was born on April 10, 1923 in Klokocor, Czechoslovakia to Michael and Julia Clovechok. The family immigrated to Canada and settled in Rosedale, Alberta in 1928. It was there, on the frozen ponds, wearing winter boots inside skates much too large, that he developed his love for hockey and also started a baseball career.

Andy is survived by his loving family, wife Molly (in their 70th year of marriage), children Don (Eileen), Jane (Jerry), Terry (Jan), Eleanor Clovechok, seven grandchildren Brandon and Dion Nordoft, Deanna Ring, Kelsey Clovechok, Natalia, Emily and Clare Clovechok and his four precious great-grandchildren.

After joining the Air Force and being stationed in Lethbridge, Andy went to Vancouver for a tryout with the Vancouver Canucks and had much success on the ice and off, capturing his “belle” Molly there. A successful career with the Edmonton Flyers followed, before settling in Kamloops in 1951, playing hockey for the Elks and later establishing himself as a self employed businessman. He was a community leader, founding father of Kamloops Minor Hockey and a passionate volunteer of countless hours in sports as a coach and umpire.

Andy had a special gift that made him a pleasure to know and be around. His sense of humour, quick wit and engaging personality were with him daily. This is what allowed him to quickly stickhandle himself into the hearts of the staff at Ponderosa Lodge, where he lived his last four difficult months, without a word of complaint as he declined.

Our family is overwhelmed by the amazing care and compassion the Angels at the Lodge provided for him ~ thank you so much!

Andy’s Memorial has been scheduled for 1:00 pm on Sunday, December 18th, 2016 at the Coast Hotel on Roger’s Way.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Canadian Tire Jumpstart, a charity “giving kids a sporting chance”.