March 17, 2024  

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Rod Wheatley, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend. Rod passed away on March 17, 2024 in Kamloops at the age of 78. 

Rod will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 58 years, Shirley, son Steve, his daughter Barb (Larry), and grandchildren Ashlee and Tristan. He is also missed by his brother Jim (Marguerette), nephews Len (Idelle) and Jim (Brenna), nieces Trish (Jayson) and Karri (Peter), many cousins and friends. 

Rod was born August 5, 1945 in Vancouver, B.C. He grew up in Vancouver and Nanaimo and moved to Kamloops in his twenties, where he spent the remainder of his life. He trained as a welder and worked in heavy construction in pulp mills all over BC and finished his career in construction management. He was a member of the Plumbers and Pipefitters, Local 170 for 57 years.  

Rod and Shirley spent their retirement travelling, they went on cruises to Hawaii, Alaska and the Panama and took many trips south to Arizona and California. 

Rod loved his dogs; he had many Frenchie’s that touched his heart, especially Rosco, Bubba J and Paris. Rod was an avid snowmobiler, he spent over 40 years sledding, and always said Crowfoot was his favorite place to ride. He was a huge sports fan, he loved watching drag racing, hockey, football and baseball and he was a long time Blazers season ticket holder. 

Rod spent many summers with family and friends at Loon Bay Resort, his second home. He couldn’t wait to get up there in the spring, he would watch the lake cameras to see how close it was to ice-off.   He spent most days fishing with his “Guide” Larry, they would be out on the lake all day and each year he couldn’t wait until it was time for long-lining. He also enjoyed many Happy Hours with all his lake friends, visiting and telling stories. 

Thank you to everyone who sent flowers and messages, dropped off food and stopped in for a visit.  A special thank you to Dr. Stefanyk and Aaron Glover for all your help, support and kindness to Rod and his family. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Loon Bay Resort on Sheridan Lake later this year. 

GONE FISHING 

If someone should ask for me, 

tell ’em heaven is where I’ll be. 

I’ve finished all my chores, 

and now I fish on heavens shores. 

The view is grand and the fishing is great. 

but I yearn for you as I wait. 

I’ll save a spot on the rivers bend, 

for all those, I call family and friend. 

But for now, head out on the water 

and make a cast in memory, 

to all the good times you had, 

with me – your friend, your grandpa…your dad. 

And if the fish no longer bite 

or seem no longer worth the fight, 

because it’s me that you are missin’, 

don’t worry – be glad – I’ve only gone fishin’. 

~Scotty~ 

You may offer a message of condolence at Cypress Funeral and Cremation Services for the Wheatley family. 

• Date : 2024-03-17
• Location : Kamloops