Stephen Hetherington

March 13, 1942 – January 19, 2012

 

Hetherington, Stephen John. Beloved husband, father and grandfather went home to be with Jesus after a thankfully brief battle with renal cancer on January 19, 2012 Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has Promised to those who love him. Stephen John Hetherington was born March 13, 1942, at the Royal Columbia Hospital in New Westminster, BC. He attended the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC and became a high school teacher- a career he desired since childhood. He began his career as a teacher in Quesnel, BC and it was there that he met Betty-Jo. They were married on June 30, 1967. They had two sons: Eric in 1968 and Brock in 1972. A born educator, he undertook further educational training at Queens University in Kingston, ON and later at Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, BC during his early years as a teacher. After a long career teaching Mathematics and Social Studies, he returned to SFU to study ESL, which he taught until the end of his career in 1998. Steve’s desire to serve led he and his wife, Betty-Jo to Japan for a brief stay to teach English. During the first 5 years of retirement, Steve and Betty-Jo tutored Asian students in ESL. Steve served on Church boards, sang in many choirs and for the past 6 years was a very active volunteer and president with the Okanagan Gleaners. This work truly was his passion. “Feed the hungry” was his mission. A man of honour and integrity, a gentle man who did not want any honours for himself, Steve only wanted to get the Gospel of Jesus Christ out to the world. Steve was a loving husband and best friend, a father and a grandfather. He is predeceased by his parents, Violet and Jack. He is survived and lovingly remembered by his wife, Betty Jo, sons Eric (Kimberley), Brock (Mary), granddaughters Abigail and Ainsley, brother Eugene (Bonnie) and sister, Jill. Steve has four nephews and one niece, many cousins and many friends who made up his spiritual family. A memorial service to be held at the Oliver Alliance Church on Saturday January 28, 2012 at 2:00 P.M. Donations may be sent to the Okanagan Gleaners at www.okanagangleaners.ca. He fought the good fight and completed the race. Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com Arrangements entrusted to Nunes-Pottinger Funeral Service & Crematorium, Oliver & Osoyoos.