February 20, 1951 – October 18, 2021

Cary Eric Funk passed away peacefully in Merritt, BC on October 18, 2021 at the age of 70 years. He will be lovingly remembered by his brothers Eugene Funk, Mark Funk, and sisters Cindy Chaplin (Gerry) and Erica Funk. He is predeceased by brothers Patrick and Greg, father Eric and mother Ann.

Cary was born in Peace River Alberta on February 20, 1951 with his 4 brothers and a sister. He spent 15 years on the farm. The adventures were endless. The family traveled the summer of 1966 looking for a better life and settled on Merritt.

He went to school at MSS where he had a few passions, one being in the Rocky Mountain Air Cadets and the other was being on the wrestling team. In 1968 he won the 191 lbs division at the British Columbia wrestling competition. He had qualified for the Canadian meet, but due to a staph infection, he was not able to show his talents and had the first of many obstacles to conquer in the next 52 years of his life.

After spending a year in Vancouver Hospital, he came home to a new baby sister and managed to complete his grades 11 and 12 in one year. Even though he was in a wheelchair, using arm crutches he walked up to receive his diploma, even though the doctors told his parents he’d be better off in a care home.

From there he moved to Vancouver on his own and took business management. He worked as DJ at a radio station, then at the Royal Bank.

In 1975 he moved back to Merritt to start up the Merritt Funk Brothers Drilling Company with his two brothers. He then worked for Kengard Distance Learning Centre (SCIDES). After retiring he had many hobbies: photography, fishing, hunting and in the later years gardening. The list was never ending and he was always learning new things, often self taught.

Family was very important to him and he knew the family’s history better than anyone. Many came seeking advice and he always had an ear just to listen.

He will be missed by all!

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

To express a message of condolence, visit Merritt Funeral Chapel.

• Date : 2021-10-18
• Location : Merritt