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
Dear Jackie,
I am so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing. I only knew him briefly but he was a lovely man. What a sad time for you and your entire family. My prayers are with you, Jackie. Much love,
Lisa (Dr. Handley’s office)
My wonderful funny animated charismatic handsome cousin brother. I will be broken hearted forever at losing such a soul mate family member, who against all odds soared to the top when he found his beautiful muse, Judi. I loved him more than I can fathom. We shared many adventures during our 68 years together. He taught me more about life and dignity than I can ever explain. He was my guide. A wonderful father, husband, cousin, brother, who just nailed all of those categories far better than most people I know. He more than enriched me and my family. He cared about me and never let me forget it. Till our spirits reunite Rod, I will love you forever.
Your indebted and loving cousin, Russ.
Judi,
I am so sorry to hear of Rod’s passing. I will remember him as a wonderful man, always friendly and smiling. He always made time to stop by my desk to say “hello”.
My sincere condolences to you and your family.
Anne
Dear Judi,
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. It was with deep sadness that I read about Rod’s passing….Friday’s paper read Monday morning. Rod was a man of true passion and belief in what he was doing. I only worked with him on Carlton House but those few years while Rod, you, Bas and myself worked to get it built, were inspirational and a real pleasure for me. His relentless humour and refusal to give up in the face of opposition and his continual support and care for the place and the people of Carlton House will never be forgotten. We worked together occasionally after that, on small projects to further improve Carlton House and it was always a pleasure to work with Rod and enjoy his great humour. I am truly sorry for your loss.
I remember Rod as a very kind man, always had a story, a smile and a great sense of humour. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Dear Judi – I was so grieved to read of Rod’s death. You won’t remember me personally, but I am one of the Probus members who so delighted in your hospitality at your previous home, and who so much enjoyed Rod at Probus. An intelligent, warm and witty man, modest and generous. Your loss is great and I sympathize with you greatly.
My favorite moment of Rod and his wonderful sense of humor was when we went to China on a tour and we were on a boat on the Yangtze river and we were playing Charade in the cabin and he had us guessing the words “Peking Duck.” He covers his eyes, flap his elbows and peeks under his arm at us all the while flapping his arms like wings. needless to say, he brought the house down with is antics. Gis birthday parties was a legend and was well attended by family and friends. Rod was one of a kind as a person with a big heart. He will be missed.
To All Of Rod’s Family, I just wanted to send you all my sincere condolences on the passing of such a wonderful & caring man as was Rod & more so as he was & always will be My Hero, as he saved my life years ago.
Here’s Why: Years ago when Carlton House was just in the planning stages, I met Rod on Chaucer Street one day as I was walking my little dog & Rod asked if I wanted to see his plans for it & I said yes, so he then showed them to me & also told me that one thing he was going to make sure of was that anyone who will be living on the first floor would be allowed their animals, as he so loved his own.
After Rod showed me his plans & was walking back to his truck, a Rottweiler escaped from one of the old houses that used to be there (where the Carlton House is now) & came running straight at me & my dog (who jumped into my arms) with his teeth showing ready to bite & I screamed…the next thing I knew was Rod was right there & had grabbed the Rottweiler & shoved him back into his yard & was able to put something up against his gate so he couldn’t get out again, then Rod came to us to make sure we were alright. If Rod hadn’t been there that afternoon, I probably wouldn’t be here now as Rod saved both my life & my dog’s life that day & I have & will always remember Rod for that, so that’s why he is & will always be My Hero.
After that I used to see Rod every now & again as I live right next door to Carlton House in the apartment building & we always stopped for a little chat & I always gave him dog biscuits for his dog.
Please know that Rod will forever be in each of your hearts, he will always be with each of you in spirit & one day, each of you will see & be with him again.
Plus all of you will be in My Special Thoughts & Prayers.
Take Ever Such Special Care & Gentle Hugs,
Gillian xox
A true friend can never be replaced, only remembered with Love.
Keeping you close in thought.
Our dear friend Judi, we are so sad to hear of Rod’s passing. You and the family have lost a wonderful husband, father, and grandfather. We have been blessed to have Rod in our lives too. We cherish the many get-togethers we’ve enjoyed over the years with Rod as the ultimate host. What a fun loving and joyful soul he was. Rod had that intuitive gift of making each of us feel welcome and special. Whenever we hear bongos, we will surely think of him. Please know you are in our thoughts at this most difficult time. Rod will be sorely missed, but never forgotten. Love from Andrew and Kathy.