Art died unexpectedly on September 1, 2015. He was born on April 11, 1944 in Yarmouth, NS and lived a fulfilling life in Powell River, Vancouver and Victoria. He is survived by his wife Alana; two sons Kevin and Ben (Nona); grandchildren Ava, McKinley, Ayla and Holden; and his brothers Kelly and Mark. Art will be fondly remembered for his love of family and for being an inspirational coach, mentor and teacher.
A gathering to remember and celebrate Art’s life will be held on Saturday, September 12, 2015 from 2-4pm at the Oak Bay Monterey Centre, 1442 Monterey Ave. A donation may be made to a charity that touches your heart.
McCall Bros. Funeral Home
35 Responses
Art, you’ve been gone for a while now but I’ve only just found out. You’ll never walk alone my friend! Dominic & family
I would like to extend my condolences for your loss. Art was my mentor at Entre-Active over the past 6 months. Written in commemoration of Art, I would like to share the following:
It’s incredible how some people come into our lives in a way that immediately feels deeply familiar and right- like deja vu, there’s a deeper knowing that your paths were meant to cross and for good reason. Art was like that for me. His warm, compassionate demeanour and his lighthearted sense of humour was a welcome introduction into the Entre-Active program that began just 6 months ago.
Throughout the program, Art showed genuine faith in me and my talent, inspiring me to go after my dreams and to recognize my worth. He truly changed my life, giving me hope and direction to find fulfillment in my life despite my limitations and challenges. I am so grateful for the time I had getting to know Art, and for the guidance I was lucky enough to receive from him.
Whether I came to class scattered, exhausted, or hyper, Art had a grounded way of smiling gently, cracking a joke, and making me feel welcome- giving me permission to be present just as I was. This is such a rare and precious quality that the world needs more of! At our graduation ceremony, I was extremely excited to have finished the program and to have completed a business plan; one that would build the future I wanted for myself. As I goofed around with my Monster Puppet, the mascot of my business, Art said to me with an amused grin, “I’ve never seen you so animated!” I give the credit to you Art, thanks for getting me there!
So I smile as I fondly remember such a warm-hearted man and a wonderful, dedicated mentor. My above memories are just an example of the type of man Art was. I know that his big genuine heart, great sense of humour, and endless support made a difference in countless lives. It is an honour to have known him and he will not be forgotten.
Thank you Art, for everything you were and for all you did. You are a true inspiration.
Sincerely,
Kristy Durst
Entre-Active Graduate of July 2015
Dear Alana,
Thinking of you and your family as you live with the untimely loss of a husband and father. Art was a good man and will be missed. I am so very sorry to hear. I trust the days surrounded by family and friends will bring you solace. Know that my thoughts are with you.
With love,
Patricia
Please accept our heart felt condolences on the passing of Art. Russ and Vicki Grimwood
Dear Family from Art and wife Alana,
I remember Art’s voice always behind me when we perform at concert with our choir; Victoria Gospel and Soul.
After one performance, he came to me, gave me a big hug and thanked me for all the movements we do, when we’re singing, because he troubles with remember the right moves on the right time. He followed me through the night.
We all miss his smile and voice.
My sincerest condolences,
Anneke Wijkstra (Alto)