Photo: Contributed

A founder of Campion Marine and long-time Kamloops resident, Ross Campion Jardine, will be remembered today.

“After 82 years of an incredibly full, honourable and beautiful life, Ross Campion Jardine left this world on May 18, 2016,” reads his obituary.

Jardine's family says he will be remembered as a very humble, generous and loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend to all who knew him.

He was born on Jan. 17, 1934, in Coronation, Alta., spending his early years in nearby Compeer, where his parents owned the General Store.

In 1944, his family moved to Kamloops and in 1958 he married his high school sweetheart, Arline.

Jardine was considered a visionary man of multiple talents succeeding in businesses in Kamloops, throughout B.C. and even selling his boats worldwide.

Early on his career, Jardine partnered with his older brother Glen, opening Kamloops Sport Shop on Victoria Street.

His love of boating and the Shuswap then led him to develop Kamsport Marine.

In the 1970s, Jardine became a partner in manufacturing boats and in 1983 he co-founded Kelowna's Campion Marine.

He helped build the company that grew to employ 200 in Kelowna and distribute boats to 30 countries around the world.

In 2012, he was inducted into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame.

“None of these successes would have been possible but for Ross's work ethic, keen mind that never seemed to stop, honest and fair business ethics, strength of character and pure determination,” reads his obituary.

He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Arline, two brothers, five children, 13 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

A funeral service is being held today at the Calvary Temple in Kamloops at 1205 Rogers Way.

Following the service, an internment will be held at the Hillside Cemetery and a reception after that at the Coast Hotel at 1250 Rogers Way.

Donations to the Heart and Stroke Fund or Canuck Place in Jardine's memory are appreciated.