1954 – 2017

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Stan Gatin on November 12, 2017 from mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer caused by workplace exposure to asbestos.

Stan leaves behind Patti, his partner and best friend of 40 years, his son Alexander (Maria), their dog Roxy who was completely devoted to him, and many friends and family. He was predeceased by his much-loved sister, Jill, his mother, Ione and father, Len.

Stan was born and raised in Kamloops. By the age of three he had learned to ski using a rope tow, made by his dad, on the hill behind his family home on Pleasant Street. After that, he spent every spare moment at Todd Mountain; he loved the speed, the fresh air, and had a natural talent for free style. His winters were at Todd Mountain and his summers were at Shuswap.

Stan’s love of the lake began before he was ten when he helped to build the family cabin. He started water skiing before they had a boat; his dad would run down the beach pulling Stan, and all the lake-kids just to get them up on skis. He learned to sail on the neighbours’ boats. As the years went by some of the ‘kids’ had a friendly swimming competition to see who could be “the first in and the last out”. In 2016 Stan won by being the first to have a chilly swim on February 27th! He loved the lake and enjoyed it until the end of his life. Stan had a passion for water whether it was snorkelling, tending his koi pond, or sailing the Hobiecat with its signature rainbow sail.

As a family, Stan, Patti, and Alexander loved their winter vacations to sunny beaches where Stan and Alexander shared their love of water sports; surfing, scuba diving, snorkelling, and skim boarding. Stan taught Alexander how to ski, supported his talent for free ride mountain biking, and collaborated with him on projects of all kinds.

Stan was a loyal friend, hard worker, and gave 100%. He was knowledgable, modest, honest, and always willing to help. He was the kindhearted activity director at Camp Gatin who taught all the kids how to drive the boat, sail, ski, fly the remote control plane, and make fires on the beach. He was our life guard.

Mesothelioma stole Stan’s plans for retirement; being a snowbird, exploring new beaches, golfing, and finally finishing that ongoing 35 year house renovation.

We would like to acknowledge the caring support and kindness of the hospice staff and volunteers where Stan was fortunate enough to spend his last few weeks surrounded by loving family and friends. At Stan’s request there will be no formal service. Instead, a celebration of life beach party and bbq will be held at The Cabin in warmer weather. If you so wish, a donation can be made in Stan’s name to The Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Hospice.

Condolences may be expressed at www.drakecremation.com

• Date : 2017-11-12
• Location : Kamloops, B.C.