It is with profound sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Earl Goodrich after a brief battle with cancer.
Earl was born May 17, 1937 in Vancouver, B.C. to Raymond and Evelyn Goodrich. Earl lived and graduated from high school in Chilliwack. At a coffee shop in Chilliwack he met the love of his life, Gail and they were married November 4, 1961. Gail and Earl moved to Vernon in 1964 where Earl worked for Dunlop Tire. In 1965 they and their two girls, Susan and Wendy, moved to Salmon Arm. Here Earl and Gail started their successful independent tire business and bought Valley Tire, later (1975) to become a Kal Tire Associate dealer. Earl was an active and visible member of his community. Throughout his working career, he developed many loyal and long-term business relationships. Earl’s close network of friends was an important part of his life. He served for two years on Salmon Arm City Council in the early 1970’s, was a volunteer for the Salmon Arm fire department, manager of the Aces hockey team, a member of the Elk’s Lodge, and served on the Board of Directors of the Salmon Arm Golf Club. After retirement in 1990, Earl became an avid golfer and enjoyed many rounds at the Salmon Arm Golf Club and Shadow Mountain Golf Club, their winter home in Palm Desert.
Earl and Gail celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary November 4, 2011 with their two daughters; Susan and Wendy in Mexico. Earl accomplished one of his top items on his ‘Bucket List’ and caught a 135 pound marlin.
Earl is survived by his wife Gail, daughters Susan Price of Williams Lake and Wendy (John) Knapik of Nelson as well as grandchildren Blair and Mark Knapik and Brad and Amanda (Brendan) Price and great-grandchild Arilyee.
A Celebration of Life was held Saturday July 14th at 2:00 pm at the Gathering Place; 350 ~ 30th Street NE. In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the charity of your choice.
Online condolences can be sent thorugh Earl’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com
Funeral arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Service, Salmon Arm, BC