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Theresa (Tess) Anne Tipton (nee Schable)

May 11, 2017

Tipton-TheresaAnneSAOMay11-2017

Born in Cranbrook, BC on August 20, 1955, Tess was the youngest of four children. She attended Central Elementary School and enjoyed many adventures around Elizabeth Lake (aka The Swamp), Kimberley, and Fort Steele.

After graduating from Mt. Baker High School, she moved to Trail, BC to follow in her mother’s footsteps, attending secretarial school. She returned to Cranbrook where she met the love of her life, Eric Tipton. Through their marriage, Tess gained a friend and sister in Colleen Gavin. Tess was introduced to married life by being moved to the remote wilds near Kaslo, BC. A few years later, Eric moved them to Eagle Bay where they built their first log home. They celebrated the birth of their daughter, Claire, three years later, followed by son, Les. Sadly, in 1989, Eric suddenly passed away. Tess resettled the family in Salmon Arm and her life’s focus became raising the two children.

During the ensuing years, Tess found support and friendship through her religious affiliations and her deep faith in God. Finding herself an empty nester in the early 2000s, Tess followed her passion for reading by working at Bookingham Palace. She also travelled far and often to visit family, from the US to England to Dubai, and even Australia. With the goal of seeking more adventure and sunshine, Tess relocated to Kelowna. She dedicated many of her days to volunteering at the Kelowna Cancer Clinic. Her love of travel and the American Southwest led Tess to spend many winters exploring the beauty and culture of that area. The focus of her life changed yet again in 2014, with the birth of her grandson Simon, as she dedicated her time and energy to his happiness.

On May 11, 2017, she passed away suddenly, surrounded by her family and friends, from unexpected complications caused by lymphoma.

Tess was predeceased by her father, John; mother, Margaret; husband, Eric; and brother, Larry. She is survived by her daughter, Claire (Ab) Yanni and grandson Simon; son, Les (Patty) Tipton; brothers, Bill and Peter (Karen) Schable; and sister-in-laws, Corenne Schable and Colleen Gavin.

Tess was a gatherer: she gathered friends and possessions, and was loyal to both.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Kelowna Gospel Fellowship Church, 3714 Gordon Drive on Wednesday May 17, 2017 at 1 pm.

Condolences can be sent directly to Claire (cyberclaire77@icloud.com) & Les (les.tipton@gmail.com) or c/o Tess Tipton #483-1255 Raymer Ave Kelowna, BC V1W 3L3

Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.



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