Frank Skuhala

August 7, 1934 – February 20, 2016

 

Survived by his devoted family, wife Norah, daughter Michelle (granddaughter Maiya), and son Wayne.

Born in Prsetinci, Slovenia, he served as a fighter pilot in the Yugoslavian airforce for 5 years before heading to Canada, arriving via ship to Montreal in 1956. Moving his way west by train to British Columbia, Frank started work with the CPR railway on an “extragang”. As his English improved he worked as a taxi driver and chauffeur. When confident with his English, he wrote the exams required at UBC and became a Journeyman in Industrial Electronics and Electrician
at IT&T in Vancouver. This is the field in which he was trained during his years in the airforce. Frank’s free time during these early years in Vancouver were spent enjoying nature by spending time in Stanley Park and the surrounding mountains. As an avid skier he became a ski instructor first at Mt. Seymour then at Mt. Baker.

After vacationing in Osoyoos in the summer of 1969, Frank seized upon an opportunity to buy Lakeside Resort and move his young family from Vancouver to Oliver. Owning and operating the resort with his family for 22 years he grew it from a small vacation spot to a lush family oasis. Frank always said how much the Okanagan reminded him of Slovenia.

While in Oliver, Frank became involved with the Chamber of Commerce eventually serving as their President for one year. During his time with the Rotary Club, Frank journeyed 3 times to Honduras with a group of Rotarians to teach local farmers terracing techniques. On one trip, he was happy to be accompanied by his wife Norah. As a result of his Rotarian work he was awarded the honour of being named a Paul Harris Fellow.

Faithful in his Catholic upbringing, Frank volunteered in many areas within his parish Christ the King. He even went on to become a 4th Degree Knights of Columbus.

Frank enjoyed curling, golfing, gardening and especially the outdoors. His horticulture training brought him a particular affinity and appreciation for trees; pruning, shaping new varieties. For those who had the good fortune to taste one or more of his many specialties – not the least of which were his several varieties of homemade sausages and wines – also knew what a wonderful cook he was, although not so great a dish washer.

Prayers will be recited at 7:30 P.M. Tuesday February 23, 2016 at Christ the King Catholic Church. A funeral mass will be celebrated by Fr. Neil Lustado at 10:00 A.M. Wednesday February 24, 2016 at Christ the King Catholic Church.  A reception in the church lower hall will follow the mass.

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.