It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, cousin and friend to many, Rod Prewett. Rod died peacefully, after a brief illness, surrounded by his family on May 26, 2019.
Rod leaves behind his adoring wife Judi Prewett, his beloved children Spencer, Jacqueline (Pelle) and Brendan (Naomi), each of whom were so very proud of Rod, his beautiful grandchildren Charlie and Freja, and his cousins Russ (Irene) and Jim, nephews Nick and Ben, nieces Michelle, Angela and Rayne. He was also much loved by his sister-in-law Edris (Val) and brother-in-law John (Suzanne). Rod was predeceased by his parents, Rhoderick and Shirley, and his siblings Ed and Kitty.
Rod was born in Victoria on August 4, 1950. He graduated from BCIT in Building Technology in 1974 and enjoyed a vibrant career, first within government, and later as the founding partner of Durwest Construction Management.
Rod always said he wanted to leave this earth with something to show for it – and show for it he did, leaving a legacy of exceptional building projects over his lifetime. In the early 2000s, Rod envisioned a much-needed senior’s residence in Oak Bay, and Carlton House of Oak Bay was born. Rod worked with tireless passion to bring Carlton House to life. Supported by his business partners’ Steve and Betsyn Clark, and wife Judi, Carlton House was Rod’s proudest accomplishment as a developer, co-owner and operator.
Beyond these works, Rod was a person of ideas who liked to get things done. He was kind and generous, charismatic, fun and outgoing and was always there for his family, whose endeavors he supported unconditionally – he lived for his family. Rod will be remembered as someone who brought people together and made sure everyone felt welcome and had a good time. He will also be remembered as someone who could not stop himself from renovating every house he ever lived in! Just ask Judi.
The family wishes to thank the following people for their support; Edris, who helped to ease Rod’s final days with great love, care and comfort, Deb Braithwaite for her invaluable advice and support, the Hospice PRT and Home Care nurses, and the doctors who helped care for Rod through his illness. To each of you, we are so grateful.
A Celebration of Life will take place at Rod and Judi’s home on Sunday, July 28 from 2-4 pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations to your charity of choice or Victoria Hospice are appreciated.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
31 Responses
I feel blessed to have known Rod. He was a super classy guy, full of life, and you can’t help but smile when he was around. I will miss him dearly. Sending you lots of love Judi.
My thoughts and love goes out to all of you
Rod was a person who really inspired me, gave me strength, taught me a lot about project management and life while figuring out how to schedule trades people! An amazing man, I have no words.. Rod will be missed, and always in our hearts and memories….
Hugs…
Anne
Dear Judy, my sincerest condolences, I was shocked and saddened by the announcement of Rods passing. What a kind and generous man and so talented. He always made me feel welcome in your home during the move, loved getting to know both of you over several glasses of wine.
Thank goodness you have such a lovely family to support you through this difficult time. I am holding you in my prayers.
He was well regarded and has left an amazing legacy.
Take care and know he will always be near you, the love of his life.
We too are shocked and saddened with Rod’s passing, he was larger than life and this makes it very difficult to except. Rod was truly talented, had an incredible imagination, and his legacy will be all the amazing volume of work he accomplished over his lifetime. I felt very sad today, driving by Carlton House and seeing the Canadian flag flying at half mast; all the old folks he cared for and he has gone, life is not always fair. More than anything else, Rod was a wonderful person who loved people and enjoyed entertaining friends, he knew how to have fun, there was always laughter! Rod lived life.
Judi and family, please except our heartfelt condolences, we are very sorry for your loss.
Judi I am so sorry for your loss. Rod was always smiling and had a joke to make me chuckle. He definitely left the world to soon but he did leave this world a better place because he was in it. My heart goes out to you and the rest of the family.
Hi Judy, we are all so saddened by the passing of Rod. No mere words can express our sorrow or lighten your heart at this time. The family legacy will live on in all that he did.
Deepest sympathy
Lonnie Shaw
Surfside Staff
Judi, Jackie and Spencer I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, my condolences to you. Rod was a fun man with many jokes and left the world with many smiles and chuckles. He is missed for sure. Big Hugs to You All.
Dear Judi,
Words could never express how shocked and saddened we were to hear of Rod’s passing .
Please know we keep you in our heart and prayers .
We are truly blessed to have shared some very happy memories with you and Rod ( and John and Seona).
Our thought are with you …
Deborah and Nigel Greenwood
So Sad to say so long to a great friend and business partner.
Rod envisioned things I could never see. Because of Rod, Carlton House exists. Literally he changed so many lives including mine. Residents, their families and our employees all lived better because of Rods vision and commitment. We all will continue to make him proud.
Rod was a dear and close friend and supporter to me and my family since the late 80’s. Together with Judi, we have many fond memories and hours or fun, laughter and meaningful conversations and quality time shared. It is with profound shock and loss we, as a family, will continue to realize Rod’s no longer here. I can hear him saying “Noooooooo!” Bless you Rod. Judi, your loss is great and we are truly sorry. I know you will have support from family to friends and we can be counted upon there too. Ironically, the extreme breadth of support you will experience is very much due to Rod impact on so many and the love we share for him, and for you! God bless you. Cheers Rod (Scooper!)