December 12, 1953 — March 24, 2026

The myth, the man, the legend, Rick “The Bear” Wile passed away on March 24, 2026, leaving behind a legacy rooted in family, community, outdoors, and a deep love of sports.

Born in Rouyn-Noranda, Quebec, on December 12, 1953, he grew up surrounded by the forests, lakes, and streams that helped shape him into a lifelong outdoorsman. He carried that connection to nature with him throughout his life, along with a passion for sports that would become central to who he was.

Anyone who knew him would say he spoke the language of sports fluently. Whether behind a microphone, on the field or, in conversation, he had a way of making others feel included and valued. Bear pursued broadcasting studies in Thunder Bay, beginning a career that would take him to Winnipeg and eventually to Kamloops, where he found his home. It was here that Bear truly discovered his place, joining Radio NL and becoming a familiar and trusted voice in the local sports and fishing community. He would phone the lakes to dig up the best info on what the fish were biting on, and then announce it on the NL Fishing Report. Sadly, no one ever successfully helped him catch ‘Walter’; the 20lb elusive fish that was lurking deep in a Kamloops lake.

Through dedication, hard work, and genuine passion, Bear became more than a broadcaster—he became part of the fabric of Kamloops sports. He helped bring Slo Pitch National (SPN) to the community. Where he played, coached teams, and gave countless hours to supporting local athletes. His commitment eventually led him to the role of Umpire-in-Chief, where he continued to mentor, lead, and give back. His junior hockey coverage of the Kamloops Blazers was legendary and remains one of the most outstanding parts of his legacy. He was respected by players, coaches, and organizations alike for his fairness and integrity. Tough, but always fair, Bear earned the trust of those he covered. He saw many of them go on to careers in the NHL. Bear also served as Chairman of the Kamloops Sports Hall of Fame, where he played a key role in recognizing and celebrating local athletes and contributors. In a fitting tribute to his impact, Bear became the first media personality ever inducted into the Hall of Fame, with the longest acceptance speech where he broke his own rule of a 5 minute time allotment.

Bear (Papa) will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Joy; his daughters Jennifer (Jason), Jessica, and Jamie (Rob); his grandchildren Kayla (Tim), Spencer (Brittany), Megan, and Olivia. His sisters Cheryl (Aubrey) and Bonnie, as well as, numerous nieces and nephews. Bear had a full life doing the things he loved and his loss will be felt deeply by his family, friends, and the many people whose lives he touched. No service by request. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to KidSport Kamloops in memory of The Bear.

• Date : 2026-03-24
• Location : Kamloops