McPherson Funeral Services, 2200 2nd Street south, Cranbrook, BC (2026)

04/21/2026

In Loving Memory
Glen Munro Rodgers
September 14, 1954 — February 6, 2026

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Glen Munro Rodgers on February 6, 2026, in Fort Steele B.C.

Glen was born in Winnipeg September 14th 1954, the future big brother to 3 younger siblings.

As a family, camping was a favorite past time, and as a teenager, Glen continued to seek frequent camp experiences and long northern canoe trips, including down the Churchill River, with the Winnipeg YMCA. These experiences kindled his lifelong love of nature and the outdoors. On one occasion a canoe with supplies tipped and the need to survive became real.

Glen had a very creative side as well. While in University he built his own canoe and crafted his first banjo. He also studied piano until he was a teenager and loved playing the Boogie Woogie blues.

Glen was a lifetime advocate for physical fitness activity. This began in high school, when he was a member of the Manitoba Marlins Speed Swim Team. He was an avid runner for much of his life. As a summer job, Glen worked at a Rolling Mill in Selkirk Manitoba, and he rode his bike the 110 km round trip every day.

Glen graduated from the University of Manitoba School of Geological Engineering in1977, and was registered with Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia, as a Professional Engineer and Geoscientist (P.Eng., P. Geo). After his graduation, Glen practiced in Western Canada, Yukon Territory, Alaska and Central America, working primarily in the field of mineral exploration. Glen wasn’t one for being limited to an office, and he much preferred the remote outdoor field work of an exploration geologist.

During this time, he acquired Toona his Alaskan malemute, and P.G. the stray cat, the first of many animals that he shared his life with.

He spent considerable time surveying the geology of the Kootenay area, which he loved and where he chose to make his home. Glen built a unique home entirely on his own, in the East Kootenay woods, near Skookumchuk while continuing to work and founding Kootenay Geo-Services Ltd.

Around 1990 Glen once again embraced his passion for creating and attended the Emily Carr School of Art in Vancouver where he studied pottery and sculpture, while living on a boat in the Vancouver harbour. Returning to Skookumchuk Glen spent over 30 years both as a consultant and providing geological services to the mining and oil exploration industries in B.C. and Alberta.

In 1991 Glen and Roberta met at Shauna’s house, neither looking for a relationship but, they were married January 2,1993 and spent 33 years raising a blended family. Glen became a dad to Jordan and Jared and in November of 1993 they welcomed Thea Rae to the family.

The family lived in the Skookumchuk home until 1997 when they moved to the Fort Steele area, into another home that Glen built. Glen nurtured and built the property to what it is today, a small farm with equines, bovines, canines and felines as well as chickens. (Andy/Endy the Dog and Emma the Mule miss Glen’s leadership).
Glen continued his creative streak returning to the piano after a long hiatus. He would play regularly in the house or in the barn office where he had another piano. Glen built a pit in the barn with intention to continue bronzing which he learned in Mexico and at Emily Carr. Glen’s artistic side was seen in the bits of poetry he would write or drawings he would share in messages. Glen liked to share quotes he found relevant such as, “A horse will accept you as boss, a mule wants to see your resume”

Glen transitioned from a hard mineral geologist to the oil patch where he worked for a number of years: going north, summer and winter, to live in a wellsite shack, read core samples and write reports. He was good at his job but disliked the travel.

Glen supported the family the best way he knew how, to work hard and play hard. Family trips to Mexico or to French camp. Climbing Fisher Peak, outdoor adventures, teaching the children how to change oil or fix things. Everyone left home with a sense of knowing how to manage their lives in a practical way.

In 2013, Glen guided Roberta and Thea on a canoe trip up the Yukon River to Dawson City. There was a trip to Greece for an anniversary, Num Ti Jah Lodge for another anniversary and frequent visits to Fort Steele on January second. Glen and Thea went to Cuba on a bike tour.

Kootenay Backcountry Horsemen adventures were Glen’s home away from home. Packing up his mules with saddles and packs, to sleep in his camper horse trailer (Glen fixed up the sleeping part of the horse trailer so he had the amenities needed to stay away for 3-4 days). His pals sent out the message and Glen answered the call. Anytime he had the chance to get into the wild Glen was happy. ‘What happens at the campfire stays at the campfire’.

If you know Glen, you will understand he was a about survival. When the cancer diagnosis was delivered in early 2024, Glen started researching. He did not take the traditional route. He did participate in the chemo but he tried the natural route as well. His initial diagnosis of 6 months to 1 year was a challenge that Glen met head on. In the next two years Glen would attend Thea and Eli’s wedding in Sept. 2024 and Jordan and Kathrine’s wedding in Oct. 2025. In Aug. 2025 Glen took Thea, Eli and Roberta on a sailing trip he arranged with Cap’n John, on the BC coast. A wish of a lifetime come true.

If there was a PHD for cancer self research Glen would have earned one. He danced a good dance and only let go when his liver stopped doing its job.

Thank you Glen, for enriching our lives with yours.

Thanks to the Doctors and Nurses and others who supported Glen through his journey. Thanks to all of the people who have offered support to the family as we grieve.

Glen requested no funeral. The family will hold a celebration of life on the long weekend in May. May 16 is the specific date and if you would like to attend, please email Roberta at rdmrodgers@hotmail.com

Rodgers family that Survives (leaves to mourn):
Sheila Rodgers (Mother), Uncle Gilbert Munroe (Bonnie)
Mark Rodgers (Susan), Kathryn Jacyna (Steve), Robyn Wheat (Ted)
Nieces and Nephews (Rory and Brianne Wheat, Laura and Kevin Jacyna)

Predeceased by Father, Donald Rodgers

Immediate family that survives and mourns:
Roberta Rodgers, Wife
Jordan Johnson (Kathrine), Jared Johnson (Samantha), Thea Rodgers (Eli)
Grandchildren Amara and Kaelen Johnson

04/20/2026

Thank you to everyone who attended our Advanced Care Planning Symposium this weekend. We truly appreciate the great turnout and the support from our wonderful vendors. We look forward to seeing you next year.

04/20/2026

In Loving Memory
Lisa Dorothy Mear
1967 - 2026

Lisa was born on July 13th, 1967 in Richmond, BC. Despite a brief time living in Victoria, the Kootenay’s were her true home. Her childhood and teens were defined by countless days at Monroe Lake with her beloved Grandpa Moore, summers in Kimberley with her Grandma & Grandpa Herron and aunty Kathie, and times with friends at Moyie and Jim Smith Lakes.

Lisa met the love of her life, Don, in Cranbrook. She described their love story as the springtime of her life. They married and built a life and growing family in Elkford before Don was tragically taken from her and the many who loved him. We take solace in knowing they are reunited.

Lisa shared a love of aviation and flying with her dad and achieved her private pilot’s Licence in 1988. She spent many happy years learning to fly and logging flight time at Kootenay Airways.

Lisa is survived by her parents Sheilah and Warren, aunts Kathie and Janet, sister Lara, children Rhiannon, Don, Chantel, and Dale, and her longtime companion Gandalf the Grey. She will be remembered for her contagious laugh, dry sense of humour, love of Tolkien, and the tenacity she relied upon to navigate life.

There will be no service for Lisa at this time.

“Where are you going, Master?” cried Sam, though at last he understood what was happening.

“To the Havens, Sam,” said Frodo.

“And I can’t come.”

“No, Sam. Not yet anyway, not further than the Havens…Your time may come. Do not be too sad, Sam. You have so much to enjoy and to be, and to do.”

“Well,” said Gandalf; “here at last, dear friends, on the shores of the Sea comes the end of our fellowship in Middle-earth. Go in peace! I will not say: do not weep; for not all tears are an evil.”

04/20/2026

In Loving Memory
Ian Roy Dickeson
Sept 8, 1967 – April 13, 2026

Ian Dickeson passed away after a courageous battle with early onset dementia.

Born in Vancouver, Ian was lovingly adopted and raised by Paul and Maggie Dickeson. He grew up on an acreage in Wycliffe, surrounded by farm animals and the responsibilities that shaped his strong work ethic. After graduating in 1985, he headed to Vancouver, where he worked ski patrol and in restaurants before moving into high-rise construction.

In 1989, while visiting Cranbrook, Ian was involved in a serious car accident. During that time, he met the love of his life, Niki. After just one month, he brought her back to Vancouver with him. They were married in Mexico in 1996, later returned to Cranbrook to build their life together.

Niki was his forever love and his very best friend. Together they built a life grounded in adventure, partnership, laughter, and unwavering commitment. They worked side by side through every chapter. Raising their family, building homes, running a business, and taking on countless DIY projects. The bond they shared was deep, enduring, and unmistakable.

Their greatest pride and joy were their children, Connor and Chloe.

Ian was a devoted and proud father who never missed an important moment. He was present for every milestone, always cheering them on. He attended all of Chloe’s performances with a smile that said everything. He spent every moment with Connor sharing his passion for IT, hard work and outdoors. He always ended their conversations with a pat on the back. More than anything, he wanted his children to feel supported and believed in.

Self-taught and determined, Ian built and operated his own IT business for 26 years. He was known as a patient, generous, and dependable man. He was a someone people could always turn to for help.

Ian devoted his life to his family. He loved reading, camping, side-by-side adventures, and spending time at the lake. He and Niki were true partners in everything they did, from renovating homes to building decks, always creating something meaningful together.

He will be remembered for his steady presence, his kindness, and the deep pride he carried for his family.

Ian is lovingly remembered by his wife, Niki; his daughter, Chloe; his son, Connor; his daughter-in-law, Shayna; and his cherished granddaughter, Karsyn.

He is also survived by his mother, Margaret; his sisters, Kirst and Holly (Mark, Craig, and Eric); and many extended family members and friends. He was predeceased by his father, Paul.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved

There will be no Service at this time.

04/20/2026

In Loving Memory
Louise Derkach
1953 - 2026

Our precious mother, Louise Derkach passed away on April 15, 2026 at the age of 72. Louise was born to Gloria and Robert Hockley on July 31, 1953 in Cranbrook BC.

She devoted her life to her children, creating a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. Her favorite role was 'Grandma,' and she never missed an opportunity to spoil her grandkids. Known for her kindness/strong spirit/hugs, Louise leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and compassion. Louise loved family. She was an avid fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, rarely missing a game.

Louise's legacy is lived on through her loving husband of 53 years Lorne her son Jody (Melissa) and Daughter Jamie (David); her grandchildren, Jaxon and Aria. She is also survived by her sisters and brothers, many nieces and nephews and their families, as well as numerous dearly loved extended family members.

A Memorial Mass for Louise will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cranbrook on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 11am.

In lieu of flowers please donate to The BC Cancer Foundation. https://www.bccancer.bc.ca/

04/20/2026

In Loving Memory
Davis Leonard Bohan
“Butch”
Nov 3, 1949- April 9, 2026

Davis (Butch) Leonard Bohan passed away in Cranbrook B.C on April 9, 2026. Buth was born in Murrayville, B.C, to Dorothy (Doe) and Leonard Bohan.

Butch spent most of his life in Cranbrook, working at Finning. When he was younger, he enjoyed playing and watching baseball, hockey, and with his Dad, he would play golf. In his later years, he would go camping and fishing at Suzanne Lake.

He is survived by multiple cousins.

There will be no service.

04/16/2026

In Loving Memory
Katherine Jane Kilbrai
December 28, 1942 - April 10, 2026

Katherine Jane Kilbrai, 83, of Cranbrook, B.C., passed into the presence of Jesus on April 10, 2026.

Born on December 28, 1942, in Preeceville, Saskatchewan to Harry and Mary Kardynal, Jane loved Jesus, loved family, was a faithful member of the Cranbrook Alliance Church, and a passionate supporter of global missions with the desire that all would know the love of God.

She worked as a bank teller in Winnipeg, where she met Ernie Kilbrai, her husband and partner in life; they were married in 1965. After moving to Cranbrook in February 1968, she continued in the same line of work and soon became a full-time mom while also selling Avon.

She loved reading and studying the Bible and inviting friends over to the home for coffee and cards. She was an avid fan of the Toronto Blue Jays, rarely missing a game, enjoyed books, watching game shows and reality TV, having coffee at Tim Hortons, and getting out of town for a weekend getaway when she was still able.

Jane's legacy is lived on through her loving husband of 60 years Ernie; her sons, Tim (Barb) and Rick (Susan); her grandchildren, Julia (Jonathan) Bearchell, Melissa (Kenjo), Amaya, and Ricky; and her sister, Mae Bulman; and Ernie's brother and sisters and their spouses. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews and their families, as well as numerous dearly loved extended family members. She prayed regularly for her family, especially for her sons and their wives, and her grandchildren. Jane was predeceased by her parents and 10 siblings.

A celebration of life will be held at the Cranbrook Alliance Church on Friday, April 24 at 2:00 pm. As Jane’s heart and desire was that everyone have the opportunity to know the love and mercy of Jesus. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Alliance Canada, Global Advance Fund. https://thealliancecanada.ca/give/

To watch livestream on April 24 at 2:00pm https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/celebration-of-life-for-katherine-jane-kilbrai

04/16/2026

In Loving Memory
Kenneth Walter Green
April 23, 1945 — April 12, 2026

It is with extremely heavy hearts we announce the passing of Kenneth Walter Green on April 12th 2026. Beloved Husband, Dad, Grandpa, Brother-in-law, Uncle and friend.

Ken was born April 23rd 1945 in Vancouver, BC. He proudly grew up (tough) in East Vancouver before moving to Campbell River, Kelowna and Kamloops with his family for short periods before returning to Vancouver to graduate from Charles Tupper. Ken was an avid sportsman in his youth playing hockey in the winters and football in the summers, then frequenting the Brentwood Racketball club in the 80’s. He fondly tells the memory of being so broke he used Sears catalogs as shin pads but got on the ice nonetheless.

Ken was previously married and raised his wife’s daughter Lana. He welcomed his son Michael in 1972.

Ken’s career began as a cook on a fishing boat before he went on to work for many local seafood wholesalers, buying and selling seafood (and the occasional frog leg). He truly enjoyed his time at the docks, visiting chefs on the many cruise ships he held contracts with, often bringing his kids along on weekends.

Ken was a world-class seafood salesman who made everyone feel like the most important person in the room — including his wife, Mary, whom he met while she was a purchasing agent at the Hyatt Regency in Vancouver. She was buying what he was selling, and they were married on November 15, 1986.

In May 1988, they welcomed their son, Jeffrey, and in April 1991, their daughter, Lisa, completed their family.

Ken and Mary raised their family in Cloverdale BC, surrounded by the most incredible friends who became family. And then relocated for a short stint to Kelowna before moving back to Cloverdale. When Ken retired from the seafood industry, he and Mary moved to Kimberley BC to be closer to Mary’s family - who he loved so dearly.

As Ken grew up without a lot he worked extremely hard to provide for his family. He ensured they got to experience things he never could have dreamed of. They took vacations to Hawaii, Disneyland, San Francisco, Palm Springs, Mexico and more. Some of their fondest memories are on these trips.

Ken adored his family and truly enjoyed his time spent just sitting around and visiting and reminiscing. He was gruff with a hard exterior but if you knew him, you knew his heart of gold and his uncanny ability to get emotional over just about anything.

Ken loved music - always at the loudest possible decibel. When home stereo systems were new, he hurried out and bought one for their home. Fleetwood Mac, Queen and The Eagles frequented those speakers and became the soundtrack to dinner parties and random weeknights.

Ken spent hours fundraising to support the Cloverdale Christmas bureau amongst other local charities and often volunteered to be Santa. He instilled the heart for philanthropy in his children and his legacy continues to live on.

Ken is survived by his wife Mary, children Lana Morelli (Doug), Michael Green (Shawna), Jeffrey Green (Kayley) and Lisa Orr (Jared), his grand children Emily, Harper and Jack. As well as his brother-in-law Eric Sharpe (Doreen), sister-in-law Jean Terpsma (George) and nieces and nephews: Kristen (Rob), Kate (Evan), James (Madi), Heather (Aidan), Doug (Leanne) and Blake (Elise).

He is predeceased by his Mother Anne Carveth, sister Kathy, niece Crystal, Mother-in-Law Lisa Sharpe and Father-in-law Jim Sharpe.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Canadian Diabetes Foundation in Ken’s name or to your favourite local charity.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a future date in the lower mainland.

04/16/2026

Won’t you join us this Saturday April 18th at the Advance Care Planning Symposium. Come by McPherson Funeral Services anytime between 1:00-4:00 p.m. to meet local experts in the areas of Advance Care Planning and End of Life Resources. You can speak to any of our welcoming group about Advance Care Directives, wills & estate planning, Power Of Attorney, digital legacy, MAID, organ donation, End of Life CPR, Palliative Care, Hospice care & support, bequeathment, household distribution & organizing, memorial portraits, end of life planning for Alzheimer’s, end of life ceremony pre planning, after death pet care, preserving memories, and our pre-arrangement specialists.

Community members attending our Symposium are going to walk away with a portfolio of end-of-life resources; and direct website links to the required forms needed for Advance Care Planning. You are going to be able to have your questions answered right there at our event.
Please share this important free event with your loved ones, friends & neighbours.
This type of planning is for all adults. In addition, anyone in the Elder Care, geriatric medical or social work professions would gain in-depth knowledge about the areas of Advance Care Planning.

If not you, who? If not now, when?
Who would you trust to make your healthcare decisions?
When will you decide?

McPherson Funeral Services 2200 2nd street south, Cranbrook

04/15/2026

In Loving Memory
Ward Edward Morgan Simmonds
June 22, 1948 – April 7, 2026

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ward Edward Morgan Simmonds on April 7, 2026, at the age of 77.

Ward was predeceased by his parents, Margaret (Deans Nisbit Dickie) and John Simmonds; his longtime partner and great love, Joan Dillon; and his niece, Nicole Richard.

He is survived by his children, Coral (Mark), their daughters, Rylynn and Brynlee; Andrew (Huma); and Christopher (Tara), and their children, Sydnee and Slade. He is also survived by his sister, Sheryl (Norman), and his nephew, Cordell (Melisa) and will be warmly remembered by Joan’s son, Mike, and his children, Kassandra, Oran, and Kael.

Ward belonged to many places and many people over the years. He was born in Winnipeg, later living in Brandon and Saskatoon, and eventually settled in Cranbrook around 1993, where he built a life, many friendships, and became well known in the community.

He wore many hats throughout his life and took pride in the work he did. Ward owned several businesses over the years and continued working nearly right up until the very end with Deliver All Express Courier Services Inc., a business he was incredibly proud of and one that allowed him to serve his community and surrounding area in a way that meant a great deal to him.

One of the greatest gifts of Ward’s life was his love story with Joan. Together for many years, they shared a deep connection, a lot of life and laughs, and many memories that stayed with him always. She was a truly important part of his world, and her loss was one he carried with him.

Ward was the kind of man who would help someone in need — especially if they were willing to help themselves. He had a big personality, a generous streak, and a love of a good party. He loved music in many forms, especially good old rock ’n’ roll, bluegrass, or just about anything his boys were playing for him. He enjoyed a beer, a great debate, and an afternoon nap — all things that suited him perfectly.

His family is especially thankful for his longtime friends and neighbours, who helped fill his last few months with companionship, care, and friendship, as well as the many other dear friends he made over the years and held close to his heart.

His beloved cat, Ember, will miss him too, but is settling well into her new home surrounded by family.

Ward will be missed in many rooms, by many people, for many years to come.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 13, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Eagles Hall, 715 Kootenay Street N, Cranbrook, BC.

Rest easy, Ward — Dad, Uncle, Brother, Friend, Wardee, Edwardo, Wardrobe, Eddie, Wart, and Wardo.

04/14/2026

Each May, we gather online as a community to honor mothers who have lost their babies & children; and to remember the babies and children we carry in our hearts. Whether your loss was 3 months ago or 30 years ago; the love of a mother never wanes. This ceremony is to recognize you.

Please join us in ceremony, online Sunday May 3rd at 2:00 p.m.
Live online Ceremony link: https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/bereaved-mothers-day-service-2026

To honor a mother or beloved baby or child in this online ceremony, families can submit their first name to info@mcphersonfh.com before May 1st.

A day for us to remember that it is our love for our children...the ones we miss, the ones we have and the ones we yearn for that make us mothers.

04/13/2026

In Loving Memory
Crystal Anne Wilkinson
September 29, 1975 — April 8, 2026

It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, mother and friend. Crystal passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of April 8th, 2026, at the age of 50, following a tenacious battle with cancer. She leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish her memory: her beautiful daughter Miranda and son, Jaron, their father Clayton Williamson, her mother Karyn Nelson and father, Dennis Wilkinson, her sister Melissa Hay and her nieces Presley and Savannah, her brother Chad Wilkinson, her loving aunts, uncles and cousins, as well as her two beloved horses Merlin and Louis.

Crystal was raised in Elko BC. She attended elementary school in Elko and Jaffray, until high school in Fernie, where she graduated in 1993. Crystal was passionate and talented in sports and played on the volleyball and basketball teams, but she also rock climbed, mountain biked, skied and snowboarded, hiked, ran and competed in barrel racing. Her truest passion was barrel racing and Crystal got her first horse, Thumper, at the age of 5. From that age on she grew to become a true, pure-hearted cowgirl. She had a strong love of animals and nature and worked hard at every job she had, including as a river rafting guide. She was determined and dedicated to excellence in everything she did. She loved to travel; back-packing Europe with her sister, surfing and hiking Hawaii with her brother, and riding her horses in Arizona with her children and partner often in the winters.

In 2002, Crystal began school at the Okanagan School of Massage Therapy and became an exceptional healing massage therapist. She owned and operated a highly successful business in Okotoks, Alberta called Ascent Wellness. Crystal bought and renovated her own house there and eventually built a clinic, with a little help from a professional carpenter, on her property. Crystal had many skills and her therapeutic hands helped give healing and pain relief to many people over the years. She held a steadfast belief in the power of natural healing. She continued giving massage therapy after the births of her daughter Miranda in 2015, and son Jaron in 2017.

In 2019, Crystal and her family and animals moved back to BC to a beautiful acreage in Fort Steele. She spent time barrel racing and was an exceptional horsewoman. She was a zealous gardener and spent dedicated time cultivating her land to grow food and healing plants for her family. If Crystal wasn’t out riding her horses with her kids, she was in her garden teaching them how to grow wonderful things. She was an extraordinary cook and took great pride in making everything from scratch. She was a loving and devoted mother to Miranda and Jaron; they were her purpose and fueled her drive to heal when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in February 2020. This was her most challenging journey. The incredible children she leaves behind will live on as her greatest legacy.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 16, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Elko Community Hall.

In lieu of flowers, we graciously invite contributions to a children’s college fund, a meaningful tribute in honour of Crystal’s love and dedication to her children. Transfer details will be shared at a later date.

McPherson Funeral Services

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