John Byng Price

John Byng Price was born in Smithers on April 8, 1941 to Tim and Poly Price. He attended the University of British Columbia where he obtained his degree in horticulture. This led to a career with the provincial government as a district horticulturist serving in Oliver and Vernon. Upon his retirement, he worked with Swan Lake garden centre for a number of years. Many people in the north Okanagan may remember him for his pruning demonstrations but others will remember his for his advice and guidance in his capacity as district horticulturist. As well, he volunteered as a judge with the Armstrong Interior Provincial Exhibition for their fruit and vegetable division. While his work in horticulture may not have been his initial desired career path, it became somewhat of a passion for him to the point where some family vacations involved visiting research stations in various parts of Canada, much to the chagrin of his children.

John leaves behind his daughter, Chrissie, her partner Scott, and his grandsons Mackenzie and Finnegan all of whom have fond memories of their meetups with John for pie and ice cream at Davison’s Orchards, a place that will always be very special to them. John taught his grandsons that it was acceptable to eat pie for breakfast. As well, John is survived by his son, Ron, and his family and his brothers Barry (Imogen) and Alan (Cathie) and many extended relatives across the province.

The family would like to thank the staff at Osprey Landing for their care of John during his final days and the staff at Vernon Jubilee Hospital.

The family would like to give special acknowledgement to Lynda Wagner who became his key care provider in the past several years and the group of people she gathered around her to assist with John’s care. Without them, especially Lynda, his life would likely not have been as enjoyable. They surrounded him with love and positivity helping him thrive. We should all be so lucky to have this experience.

A celebration of life will be organized sometime in the future.