Keith Brewis, founder of Vernon Kokanee Swim Club, dead at 88

Photo: Contributed

A key mentor in Vernon's sports world has died.

Keith Brewis passed away Jan. 4 at Vernon Jubilee Hospital. He was 88.

Brewis was the founder of the Vernon Kokanee Swim Club and also played a role in the formation of the Sovereign Lake Nordic Club and Vernon’s first slow pitch league.

He was named to the Okanagan Sports Hall of Fame in the builders category in 2012.

Brewis was born in Regina on Jan. 12, 1932.

Settling in Vernon, his dedication to community "was exemplified through his passionate support of local sports, and his commitment to volunteerism," his obituary reads.

He played hockey most of his adult life and was a daily swimmer at the Vernon Recreation Centre for 35 years, as well as a competitive cross-country skier, curler, and triathlete.

Brewis coached swimming, high school football, baseball, and minor hockey.

In 1988, he was thrilled to carry the Olympic Torch during its run through the North Okanagan, on its way to the 1988 Winter Games in Calgary.

Brewis was also awarded the Vision of Vernon award, and was named the 2005 Good Citizen of the Year.

He worked for BC Hydro for 33 years, and in his retirement spent many hours volunteering for the Street Lunch Program, Schubert Centre, and Vernon Jubilee Hospital.

He was predeceased by his wife, Joan, in 2018.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Schubert Centre or BC Hydro Power Pioneers. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.