It is with heavy-hearts but with deep love and fond memories that we announce the passing of our beloved son, brother, relation and friend: John-Paul “John” Joseph Hetu. John passed away at his home on Friday, February 18, 2011 in Kelowna, B.C.
John was born on November 18, 1975 in the north-eastern part of B.C. (Chetwynd) and spent his childhood in Moberly Lake, B.C. John is a member of the Saulteau First Nations (Treaty No. 8) and is of French heritage. John spent his life as a teenager in Salmon Arm, B.C. He also spent some time in Peterborough, Ontario, Victoria, B.C., Vancouver, B.C., and finally Kelowna, B.C.
John is survived by his mother Ruth, father Jean-Paul, three sisters Billie-Jean (Trevor, Jordan and Kale), Nicole and Renee (Allan and Aurora), two brothers Marcus and Kevin, Kokhum Minnie Garbitt (Cree for grandmother), many aunts, uncles, cousins, second cousins and many friends.
Our son, brother, relative and friend was a generous, loving and gentle-natured spirit. He was humble, held no resentments and was accepting of all people. He had a playful nature and loved to laugh and joke. John was a bit of a “trickster” and loved to tease his loved ones (especially his sisters). John loved being with his family, friends and he especially loved to gather with his loved ones, over a shared meal/feast. He loved to watch nature and science programs. He loved the outdoors, downhill skiing, swimming, boating, tubing, and traditional hunting practices. He loved to read, listen to music and he especially loved to dance!
Most recently, John worked at the Salvation Army; he loved helping and working with people. In his life-time, John worked as a baker, construction, and as a prep-cook (he loved cooking).
A Celebration of John’s life will be held at Bower’s Funeral Chapel, Salmon Arm, B.C., on Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 1:00 PM. A light luncheon will follow. Cremation will follow; John’s ashes will be scattered at special and significant places of importance to him.
In lieu of flowers, please feel welcome to make donations to “Freedom’s Door” (HSBC, Bank Account # 430-09970-081) or cheque payable to “Freedom’s Door”: 1279 Centennial Crescent, Kelowna, B.C., V1Y 6K3 or contact Lynton Shardelow (Executive Director), Telephone (250) 717-0472
Online Condolences can be sent through John’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Service, Salmon Arm, BC