Roald Joel Feness died peacefully with loving members of his family at his side on March 9, 2017. Born on March 27, 1934 in Prince Rupert, BC to Ingvard and Edna Feness. Predeceased by Gerry, his wife of 51 years in 2015. He is fondly remembered by his children: daughters Mary Ehle (Carson Dupuis), Katherine Meredith (Michael Devereux); sons Karl Feness and Roy Feness (Cathy); beloved grandchildren Kevin, Kate, Clare, Sarah, Nick, and Hannah.

Roald’s early years were divided between Norway and Prince Rupert. He attended Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma where he studied music and learned to play the pipe organ and sousaphone. After teaching “up North” for several years, he settled in Victoria, where he met and married Gerry. The family moved to Port Renfrew where he was principal of the elementary school. This was followed by a move to Cordova Bay and Roald continued his teaching career with the Sooke School District. He is responsible for introducing thousands of Sooke school children to skiing with annual trips he organized to Mount Seymour. He served Grace Lutheran Church both as a council member and choir director. Coaching the boys’ soccer team, he organized a tour to Scandinavia for the Cordova Bay Colts soccer team in 1984. He joined Sidney Kiwanis Club and was instrumental in running the Toy Drive, the Sidney Days Pancake Breakfast and was one of the coordinators of the Kiwanis Antique and Collectable Show at Cedar Hill Rec Centre. Proud of his Norwegian heritage, he was a member of the Sons’ of Norway Choir. Retirement saw him serving as President of the Retired Teachers Association. Busy as he was with his work and volunteer commitments, he still found time for playing bridge, stamp collecting and fishing. Many happy summers were spent at Beecher Bay Marina (Pacific Lions) where he fished the wild Pacific waters, and supplied family and friends with fresh salmon, crab and shrimp.

Roald will be sadly missed by his family, friends, and the many students he influenced over the years.

The family invites friends to join them in celebration of Roald’s life on March 25, 2017 at 1:00 pm at the Cedar Hill Golf Course Clubhouse, 1400 Derby Road.

Condolences may be offered to the family below.

McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com

  • Joe DePellegrin

    I only met Mr. Feness once- briefly but through knowing his son I know he was a true gentleman and I know he will be missed.

  • louise smith

    What an amazing husband, father, and son. Roald certainly lived life to the fullest and created so many memories and friendships. My thoughts are with the family who will miss him so much.

  • Leni Spooner

    I did not have the privilege of knowing Roald, but have had the privilege of having his daughter Mary be a welcome part of my life. How we raise our children says a great deal about each of us, and my heart goes out to each heart weighted by Roald’s passing. I’ll be raising a toast to Roald, his family, and his friends today and on March 25th. Be well all.

  • Rick & Shirley Buckley

    Roy and family, we send our deepest sympathy for the loss of your father. We are grateful to have known Roald and know he has touched so many peoples lives. He will be missed. Rick & Shirley Buckley

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