It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Emile Albert Roy at Pioneer Lodge in Salmon Arm, BC, on January 1, 2017, at the age of 66 years.
Born March 18, 1950 in Tisdale, SK, he moved to BC with his family in 1967. He pursued many employment opportunities including farm work, masonry, and restaurant work, before beginning a career of over 30 years at Federated Co-op in Canoe, during which he never missed a single day of work.
Emile became a dedicated and talented cribbage player with his long-time friends and co-workers. Outside of work, Emile was a dedicated volunteer and a proud greeter at church services, and belonged to the Lion’s club, Knights of Columbus, and Citizens’ Patrol. Emile loved life in the community of Salmon Arm, and especially enjoyed events such as the Fall Fair, church bazaar, bird-watching, and greeting almost anyone he encountered with his well-known enthusiasm and good nature. Emile would never miss a gathering of family, where he greatly enjoyed the usual feast and sharing of tales from life on the farm.
Emile was diagnosed with progressive Parkinson’s disease in 2006. Although hampered by his disability, Emile found great purpose in raising thousands of dollars for the Parkinson Society of BC and participated in the annual Parkinson’s SuperWalk event.
Emile leaves behind his wife Lynn, and two children Matthew and Christina, and will be missed by his mother Marie Francoise Roy of Salmon Arm, many siblings, countless nieces and nephews, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his father Laurent Gerard Roy in 1987, and his sister Margaret in 2015.
Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00AM Thursday, January 12, 2017 at St, Joseph’s Catholic Church in Salmon Arm. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Salmon Arm People with Parkinson’s group at the Salmon Arm United Church, in recognition of the care and support they provided to Emile. The family would also like to acknowledge Emile’s family doctor, Dr. Rich Currie and specialist Dr. Jennifer Takahashi for their excellent and compassionate care over many years of difficulty.
“This is my comfort in my affliction, that your promise gives me life.” Psalms 119:50
Arrangements entrusted to Fischer’s Funeral Services & Crematorium Ltd., Salmon Arm (250) 833-1129. Email condolences and share memories of Emile through his obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.