Photo: Contributed

Well-known Penticton property developer Bruce Schoenne has died.

Schoenne, 58, died Sunday in hospice after a brief battle with cancer. He was diagnosed in January, according to his son Chris.

“It was quite an aggressive cancer. He was moved to hospice last week, so it was fairly quick,” he said.

Chris described his father as “very determined” in both his role as a local developer and in pushing his physical limits, entering two Ultraman races and the Ironman nine times.

“Huge into fitness, into building the company and doing things for the community,” Chris said.

Before being diagnosed last year, Bruce completed the 400 kilometre Ride to Survive cancer fundraiser. His teammates retired his No. 85 jersey exactly one year later, Sunday.

Chris says he has taken over operations of Schoenne Homes, which is behind several downtown projects such as the multi-use building currently going up at 123 Front Street.

“We are continuing, not slowing down. That would be his wish and was always the plan, it just happened a little bit quicker than anticipated,” Chris said.

Mayor Andrew Jakubeit said Bruce was a community builder and champion “both figuratively and literally.”

“Many may recognize him for his work on increasing density with his duplex and townhouse developments, but Bruce also volunteered on several city and community committees,” Jakubeit said.

“The fact that Bruce was very healthy, active and passionate about our community and now taken so quickly; while in his prime, makes it very difficult to comprehend and accept. It is a very sad day and our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to the friends and family of the Schoenne family.”

Bruce Schoenne celebration of life will be held July 2, 2 p.m. at the Penticton Lakeside. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Moog and Friends Hospice.