Born in Victoria, British Columbia
With love & deep sadness, we announce the passing of Dr. Wesley Woychuk, who died peacefully at Royal Jubilee Hospital in Victoria, surrounded by family, following a courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease.
Wes leaves behind his three beloved sons- Lucas, Samuel, & Sebastian Woychuk – who were the greatest joy & pride of his life.
Born to Wilfred & Therese Woychuk, Wes was raised in Victoria & graduated from Mount Douglas Secondary School. From an early age, he was actively involved in sports, playing rep hockey with the Saanich Braves & competing in lacrosse. Wes was also a gifted musician, playing the piano, violin, upright bass, & guitar. His love of music brought him joy & connection throughout his life.
Wes attended medical school at UBC, where he also played varsity hockey for the Thunderbirds. He returned to Victoria for his internship at the RJH, where he was awarded the Silver Medal in Obstetrics. Wes later moved to Kelowna, beginning a distinguished 35-year career as an emergency room physician at Kelowna General Hospital.
Dr. Wes was widely respected by colleagues & deeply appreciated by patients for his compassion, humility & unwavering kindness-especially toward those less fortunate. Easy on the eyes & naturally charming, Wes had a charismatic personality that drew people in. He loved connecting with others & made people feel seen and at ease. Beneath that bright presence was a gentle kindness & deep love of helping others-qualities that made him perfectly suited to the profession he chose.
A passionate sports enthusiast, Wes continued playing hockey throughout his medical career with the Kelowna Doctors Hockey team, maintaining lifelong friendships & a deep love for the game. He was also frequently called upon to serve as an attending physician, toured Europe with the Canadian Olympic Freestyle ski team, was a regular “ski doc” at Big White, “Hock Doc” for the Kelowna Rockets & finally a “rock doc” for visiting musicians.
Despite a successful & fulfilling medical career, Wes’s greatest happiness came from being a father. He cherished raising his three sons & building a family with his former wife, Kim (Chapman). Wes loved being active with his boys-whether playing basketball, football, tennis, or simply having them nearby during his gym workouts. He believed deeply in the power of fitness & movement & remained committed to staying active until the very end.
Wes lived life in two distinct rhythms: boldly on the edge & quietly reflective with a strong, spiritual core. Those who knew him best understood this balance & loved him all the more for it.
Although his final chapter – an unexpected diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease -was profoundly challenging, Wes was determined to live fully & with dignity. His family is deeply grateful to Wes’s best friend, Dr. Paul Linden whose 40-year friendship & unwavering presence through this devastating illness exemplified extraordinary loyalty & kindness.
Wes was also blessed to be surrounded by an exceptional care team whose compassion made a lasting difference: Lynn, Cynthia, Yolanda, Annie, Simon & Della.
Thank you, brother, for all that you were.
A Celebration of Wes’s Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s society.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
This obituary is the property of the “Woychuk” family and may not be reproduced, distributed, or altered in any way without prior written consent.
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Susan Robin Almrud
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Barry Singular So sad to hear of Wes’s untimely passing. My deepest condolences to Wes’s family. Worked with Wes in ED for 20 years. Have many memories working with Wes as a team through all the trials and tribulations that come from a busy, hectic and challenging ED environment. Never a dull moment. Rest in peace Wes. Barry
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Darlene Varey Brown Wes touched many people; my son and grandson and myself. He set a high bar for all of us to meet. The world was a better place with him in it. He will be missed Darlene Varey Brown
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Marty Wakelyn So sad to hear of the passing of Wes. We grew up together playing hockey for the Saanich Braves and Saanich Lacrosse. Hanging out as teammates on and off ice was a blast. A fun and gregarious personality. He had a huge smile, a twinkle in his eye, a fun laugh and at times a little boy devilish look. We played all the way through Jr B. I was proud to hear of his success as a doctor through the years. I can only imagine the profound impact he must’ve had on his co-workers and patients. My sincere condolences to his sons, family and many friends. The world lost a true man in every sense of the word and another damn good hockey player. RIP Wes
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Frances Peffers My deepest and sincere condolences to Wes’s family and friends. A true gentlemen inside and out. I only worked with him a short time but he left a profound mark on me as a human being . He was truely a one of a kind man.Rest in peace Wes.
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Tonya Haines Wes was certainly an original 🙂 always packing his suitcase of meals and snacks to work. He always had a smile for his pts and co-workers. I can honestly say that he was an extremely approachable Doc in the ER to those that were green. Many fond memories of Dr.Woychuk. My heart goes out to his family and all whom were close with him.
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Jeff Koltun Beautiful words and they bring a smile as I remember spending time with Wes and our boys doing these things that he loved together. We played and coached football together and we had enough kids to form our own RockBand and to share our love of music. Our friendship grew as we shared these times together and as we leaned on each other for support. Wes was always willing and eager to contribute with full energy, whether he was our KMFA Team doctor or patching us up after our adventures he was our trusted friend. You will be missed, rest well my friend.
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Kim Colpman I’ve known Wes since high school, and at that time I would “strategically” sit behind him in class because he was the smartest guy in the room. He was also super friendly, always smiling and bonus – always ready to help with the assignments!
Now, as I read through the condolences, I am reminded all over again how many lives Wes touched. Over and over people mention the same, and we all agree that Wes is genuinely kind and so compassionate. He was one of those rare people whose work was a perfect extension of who he was. He took his natural gifts and turned them into a career that mattered, one he was good at and deeply passionate about.
Yet if you asked him what he was most proud of, it was his boys. I had the pleasure of seeing them again last year on Wes’s birthday, and they are truly wonderful young men. In the words from a song of the Rankin family, “we rise again in the faces of our children”.
Rest well Wes xo
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Alicia Smith I’m so very sorry for your loss. I met Wes a few times and, reading these beautiful tributes, it’s clear how much he meant to so many people. A kind, loving man that cared so deeply for others. I love much he enjoyed his music.
Wishing you comfort as you remember a life that made such a difference.
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Naomi Summach I started working with Wes in the old emergency department, and I had the privilege of working alongside him for 10 years.
He was always smiling. Always ready to help. Always leading with love. No matter how heavy the shift felt, he somehow made it lighter just by being there.
He wasn’t just a coworker — he was part of some of the most formative years of my life. His kindness and charm left a lasting imprint on everyone who had the honour of knowing him.
He will never be forgotten
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Chandra Kalke What a beautifully written tribute. Wes was working on my first day in KGH ED and he was there on my last day. He touched so many people through his time there. My condolences to his family and Paul. I’m sorry to hear about your loss
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Colleen McNamee Peace, hugs and prayers to Wendy Greg, Graeme, Micheala, Mother Theresa, Lucas, Sammy, Seb, and Kim.
Got to know and love Wes through his amazing sister Wendy! Who could forget going to parties in Kelowna at the house on the lake. Wes was welcoming, fun and super charming. But he was so much more… smart, caring, compassionate and respectful of all. In these last 5 years of his life in Victoria having deep conversations about family and spirituality have warmed my heart, as have dance parties to Micheal Jackson and George Micheal. Wes had a zest for life, a love for his boys and family, and will be greatly missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. He is at peace now and with his dad Wilf looking after all of us. Peace and prayers, Colleen, Pete, Charlotte and Oliver xo
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Bob and Andrea Turpin We were so saddened to hear the passing of Wes. He lived his life to the fullest and always greeted you with a smile and friendly hug. He approached his medical journey in a very positive way never looking back, always moving forward and now he’s on his spiritual journey with endless possibilities. We will miss his friendly smile and loving Heart.
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Gord McInnes Wes was my first ever department head at Kelowna General Hospital. He hired me, encouraged me and motivated me with a level of excitement for everything he did in life that was infectious. We worked together for 20 years and I can’t think about my beginnings in EM at KGH without thoughts of Wes. I will miss him but will always remember him fondly.
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George Barr I met Wes (and Paul) at Flex Fitness in 1992 when I was 18. Wes took me under his wing and always had time for me. In those early days Wes was larger than life, and was so charismatic that all the guys around him wanted to be like him. Wes was very intelligent and kind/compassionate and in my opinion, this is what made him a great doctor! Very sad news for me. My condolences to the Woychuk family and Paul Linden.
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Chantal Hilbert I will never forget the feeling, like a freight train running through my heart, when Wes and I locked eyes in the cafeteria at the Woodward Library all those years ago. A young romance fuelled by the magic of Wes; it was a wonderful time of life for us all! Wes was so smart, so handsome, and best of all, had the craziest sense of humour. While he could command the attention of an entire room, he also had the depth to connect with people individually, and it is wonderful to read the tributes of those whose lives he impacted so meaningfully. His salt of the earth values represented those of his amazing parents, Wilf and Terry. Wendy, you are such a loyal and adoring sister, I cannot imagine how heart breaking this all must be for all of you. My deepest condolences to you all. I will always hold a special place in my heart for Wes.
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James Gregory Lamoureux old friend from Victoria..
my twin❤️
mistaken for each other many times..lol
gonna miss you bubba.
rest easy Wes.❤️
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Allan Derer I met Wes over 35 years ago at one of many family gatherings.
Wes was always available to take care of our family when in need.
The last time I saw Wes was probably a dozen years ago in the grocery store. He had two kids in the cart, and one hanging off his leg. Wes had a big smile on his face and had time for a chat!
The world has lost a incredible human being! Rest in peace Wes. Condolences to Wes’s family.
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Michael Snell I am shocked. If ever there was a force of nature Wes would be that. I worked with him in the Emergency Dept from time to time , he always made me feel welcome even though I was a fish out of water. I only had one conversation with him and I felt like I had his
complete attention. It is tragedy that he has been taken from his loved ones at such a young age.I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.
Maya Angelou
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Robin McLay Wes was one of those people who left a lasting impression from the very beginning. I first met him through his close friend Terry Jones back in our Mount Doug days, and I will always be grateful for that introduction. Some of my favourite memories from high school include the good times we shared, the laughter, the music, the sports, and the easy camaraderie that Wes seemed to create wherever he went.
Even then, he had that rare mix of confidence and kindness. He was talented, generous in spirit, and genuinely interested in the people around him. It is no surprise that he went on to live such a meaningful life in service to others.
My heartfelt condolences to his family.
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Jim Baumgartner Rest In Peace My Friend!
An incredible human being!
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Stew Turcotte I thank Wes for being there when you needed him. He pulled me out of a Code Blue first and then years later read a CScan to diagnose my Colon Cancer and saved my life for the second time. I think of him often and will continue to do so. RIP Wes.
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Tommy Sorensen Wes you were such a caring Dr I can’t say enough about how I was treated by you. Heaven has just received another angel. RIP Wes you were such a incredible man. God bless brother
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Dallas Varey I can’t remember a time when Dr. Wes wasn’t a part of my life. Between being in my fathers’ gym (Bodyz in Motion) doing crazy workout routines like handstand pushups with a weighted vest or making house calls when I was sick or injured, even just the odd visits. He was always a blinding light of happiness and charm, an idol and a life long friend.
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Barry Singular So sorry to hear about Wes’s crippling and incapacitating struggle with Alzheimer’s and recent passing. Worked with Wes for 20 years at the KGH emergency department. Shared some fun times and critical moments working in ER. My deepest condolences to Wes’s family. Rest in peace Wes.
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Nancy Nance Cuglietta Dr. Wes was so very very kind to our family when my daughter passed away. He cared for my son while he was in the hospital. The love that he shared with our family will always always be remembered. May your angel wings fly and your love be remembered.
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Dave Wood An institution at KGH ER . loved and appreciated by staff and patients alike . He’d always go the extra mile for patients . Great guy and even better ER Doc . RIP big guy you were missed when you left our department .
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S. VAREY To the boys, Kim, Wendy and rest of the family. and Paul who was his anchor.
Wes was more than a friend to me, he was a constant. There for me and my family.
He stood by me in some of my darkest seasons. Not out of duty, but because that’s who he was. As my friend, trainer, Dr – he pushed me when I competed and he steadied me when life knocked me down. I watched his family grow and he watched mine. His home was always open and in the gym he was full of laughter. Our lives were connected far beyond profession or title. He was the kind of guy who would help you build a house, help you move, or simply sit and listen when you needed it most. Wes never judged, he accepted you as you were and supported you as you grew. He treated everyone with the same dignity and respect. Quietly and consistently, he showed up for so many.
I will always cherish what you did for me and my family.
Rest easy my friend, you’ve earned your peace.
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Gail Patterson A wonderful man who always had a smile and a laugh for all who were lucky enough to get to know him
he will be remembered with love , my deepest sympathy to all the family .
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Jim loseth Actually met Wes when he first came to town… super talented and nice all around person that definitely had a fun side.
some people will remember “the house on the lake” back in the day..
sad when the good ones are taken too soon…deepest condolences
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Carol Kalynuk-Jones My heart goes out to Wes’ family; His kids. When I moved to Kelowna in 1992, he was the 1st doc I saw in ER. Years later, I ended up working in ER. He was funny, serious, compassionate, driven. He treated a couple of my kids, and you could feel he hurt at the thought of them feeling pain while being treated.
The tribute here is beautiful. He was involved in so much and was a part of so many lives. Memories will be alive, always.
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Sharon Shepherd Wes (and Paul) started in our clinic and we were thrilled to introduce them to Kelowna. Wes was loved by staff, colleagues and patients and extremely diligent in his care. It was Kelowna’s gain to have physician Wes. His contributions were significant and he is gone far too soon. Condolences to the family.
Sharon & Michael Shepherd
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Simona Grundy Had the pleasure of working with him back in the “old” KGH ER. Great fun loving guy… condolences. Sending light & love
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Lori Wes was there when I started at KGH and was always approachable and kind. He made work fun and had many friends. My thoughts go out to his family and friends
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Scott Sieben I am very sorry to hear of the passing of Wes Woychuk. Whenever I saw Wes around Kelowna, I was greeted with a big smile. In the hospital, Wes was one of the best. If I had to be in Emergency, I was glad when I saw that Wes was one of the physicians on duty.
My condolences to his family.
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Walter Morel I knew Wes from the gym and from my visits to Kelowna Emergency. Wes was a great guy,good doctor and sad we have lost him. my deepest condolences to family and friends
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Careyann Shiskin I am speechless I meet him years ago when he worked for Dr Stevenson He was brilliant and charming and so talented and then worked with him at KGH. He helped me on several occasions with different things. I am truely sorry for the family he was such a genuine authentic kind person Carey-Ann Shiskin
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Diane Combs-Prosser My deepest condolences and sympathies to the Woychuk family. I had the honour of working with him in the ER at KGH for most of my career. He was one of a kind for sure. He never looked down on you for asking questions or asking for help. His kindness and approachability is what made him a very popular doctor. He lived life to the fullest and always had a smile for you. You will be missed Dr Wes. Thank you for being a colleague and a friend.
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Joyce Hebert My sincerest condolences to Wes’s family. I worked as an RN in the ED with Wes for many years and can say he was a kind and compassionate physician and human being. All his patients loved “Dr Wes”who always listened to them and treated them with compassion and kindness. Gone too soon.
Joyce Hebert
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Jenna Millsap My heart felt condolences to those who loved and cared for Wes. Wes helped deliver and welcome me into this world, and many years later, it was a true honor to work alongside him at the KGH Emergency Room. Wes’ kindness and compassion was steady and genuine. May he rest in peace.
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Brian Hilbert What a beautiful tribute, Wendy. We were blessed to have had Wes in our lives, as he was a genuinely good man. He was there to fix all of our children growing up, and was also there as a great friend. There were many a great times shared with the families of Wes and Dr. Paul. The memories will be cherished.
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Laura and Randy Hawkins Dear Wendy,
We were so sorry to hear of Wes’ passing. What a beautiful tribute to your brother. Randy and I send our deepest condolences to you and the family.
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Mervin Kirwin Hello, Wes had taken great care of me while I was waiting for my back surgery. He was so kind and a caring Doctor. Thoughts and prayers to the family and friends. He truly was a doctor who cared about each patient he saw. He truly will be missed.
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Robin Bruce I was very saddened to hear that Wes had been stricken with that terrible disease. Sometimes life just isn’t fair. Wes was an awesome guy, funny, could be serious and always approachable. I knew Wes mostly through the gym environment. He was a hard trainer and a lot of fun to be around. He made workouts and gym time a lot of fun and a lot less boring for sure. He was always willing to field health related queries even though he was off the clock. Will be missed. My heart felt condolences go out to his family. Rest in peace in that big weight room in the sky.
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Gordie Abougoush Awesome words said about an awesome man. He was truly a great doctor and friend to all.
He certainly will be missed but never forgotten. May he rest in peace.
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noreen spanell I would like to share my deepest condolences to all Wes’s family and friends . I was lucky to work with him at KGH in the ER as a stroke nurse. He was wonderful to work with and truly cared about his patients. I started at KGH in 1998 I remember calling a code blue on our unit and Wes came as the attending. We were speechless at first as he looked like a male model lol. He will be missed by all.
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Patrick Fishley What a beautiful tribute to a genuine beautiful person. Wes was a great friend, colleague, and Dr. I have so many beautiful moments to reflect on during our 3 decades of work together. He is sadly missed. Wes’ family and Sons can surely be proud to know that he was so authentic and caring. He is a great role model for his boys and friends. Wes was truly more than just a colleague or a friend, he was like a brother. Sending my deepest condolences to you all.
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Jim Fishley I find myself feeling truly honoured to have worked with Wes at KGH over the years. He was so very amazing and his kindness to the patients was second to none. My life is truly richer for having known Wes as well as being influenced by Wes!
My sincere condolences to his family!
Wes was a Legend!
He will always live on in our hearts!
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Anne Leier To Wes’ dear family, I worked with Wes (RN)for many years in the emergency at KGH. I am truly sad for you and all of us to lose such a vital and kind human being. He cared for his patients with respect and left no stone unturned in getting to results, diagnoses and treatment plan. I am grateful to have worked with him and thankful for those years.Miss him. Respectfully Anne Leier
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Patti Jennens Such a wonderful obituary for a wonderful guy. I’ve known Wes since he and Paul first came to Kelowna as locum Drs. Our office was so lucky to have them both even for a short time. Wes looked after my Family when we visited Emerg. Couldn’t ask for a better Dr. He was always there when needed. I feel so fortunate to have spent time with him before he moved back home. To share his struggles yet in saying that, there were giggles too. He will be fondly remembered forever. Rest Easy my Friend.
Patti
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Anne Millsap My sincere condolences to Wes’ Family.
A very compassionate and wonderful person.He was an amazing doctor who helped give birth to my daughter Jenna.
Heaven has gained a shining star.
Sincerely,
Anne Millsap
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Jody Young Thinking of you with caring thoughts. It was an honor to work with such an incredible doctor for many years. Your loss is immeasurable, and they were taken far too young. Wes will be remembered with great respect.
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Selena Jensen Dear Wendy and family,
What a beautiful tribute to your brother Wes. I am thinking about you and your loved ones and sending you strength and peace.
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Diana Thornton I’m very sorry to read this. I went to Mr. Doug with Wes. Such a nice guy and such a great athlete. Condolences to all of the family.
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Greg Korzan A lovely tribute to a wonderful physician and fantastic human being. The description of his compassion, kindness and zest for life is spot on. I was truly honoured to work with him in Kelowna for many years, and call him a friend and colleague.
We will miss him dearly.Greg Korzan
With deepest condolences to Wes’ family and his three beloved sons along with all his friends who loved him. So sad to read this and sending prayers and heartfelt thoughts. A beautiful tribute.