ZAHARA, Lawrence “Larry”

—

It is with sadness and heavy hearts to announce the loss of our father, Gramps, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Larry James Zahara. Larry passed away on September 19, 2021, at Kelowna General Hospital at the age of 88. The family extends a sincere thank you to Larry’s medical team for their compassion and kindness.

Larry is survived by his daughter Debbie (husband Gary Vollet); daughter-in-law Barb (husband Dave Dubnyk, daughter Bailey); grandson Chad (wife Veronica) and Dane (wife Brittany); great-grandsons Hunter and Hudson; sister Helen; and brother Boris. He was predeceased by his wife Shannon (1938-2004); son Kevin; and brothers Terry and Morris.

Born on a farm near Margo, Saskatchewan, the family later moved to Saskatoon, SK. Following after his big brothers, Larry was interested in mechanics, and followed a job prospect to Swift Current, SK. While there, he met his future wife Shannon; they married in 1956. In Swift Current, Larry was active as a volunteer in his community. He helped with the Bronco Junior Hockey team, coached minor hockey, and was a linesman. Larry was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was also a gunsmith and handy man.

Larry started with South Saskatchewan Pipeline in 1955 as a Truck Driver, Mechanic, and Pipeliner. He worked his way through the company and in 1979 became Pipeline Foreman. He retired in 1989 as Sr. Pipeline Foreman.

Larry and Shannon were ‘tail lights’ to BC – Lake Country, where they designed and built their dream home at Carr’s Landing. Larry’s retirement plans were to fish, ski, golf, windsurf, camp, and travel. Larry and Shannon spent many winters in Yuma, Arizona fulfilling their desire to be snowbirds. In 2005, Larry moved into Kelowna, BC and became an active member of his community, volunteering with the golf membership and organizing dart nights and pool nights at the local Billiards Room which became fondly known as “Oilman Larry’s”. He was always ready to help out in the community, from putting up the Christmas decorations at the Club House to pancake breakfasts. Larry enjoyed playing cards, was a great conversationalist, and had a knack of making people feel comfortable in a room. He loved to cook and to host a table full of family/friends. He was a fantastic photographer, had a green thumb and loved to spend time in his yard(s) gardening. Larry loved a good scotch.

Friends, peers, and family describe Larry as a great neighbour and friend. He was a pillar, a patriarch, positive and patient. He had a kind heart and good sense of humour, a sense of justice, and many admirable qualities; he was self-sufficient, a neat guy, and great company.

To his friends and neighbours that were always there for him, thank you.

Larry will be forever missed and always loved.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.