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LOEWEN, Michael John

LOEWEN, Michael John

Michael Loewen, aged 74, passed away on July 31, 2024, in Kelowna, B.C. Born on November 10th, 1949, in Revelstoke, Michael’s journey was marked by a profound dedication to service, vibrant social presence, and a deep connection to his Italian heritage.

Michael’s early education began in Revelstoke and continued when he spent his high school years at the Benedictine Monastery in Mission, B.C. He furthered his studies at Western University in Ontario and the University of Calgary, earning a Master’s degree in Social Services Management. His professional life was a testament to his commitment to social betterment; early on as the Social Services Director for the City of Calgary, later as Executive Director of the United Way in Kelowna, and as a consultant with BC Hospice Palliative Care Association, Community Living B.C., and the Central Okanagan Elizabeth Fry Society. Most recently, Michael worked as a Real Estate Professional with Royal LePage Kelowna, spending a tenure chairing the Property Assessment Review panel. He served his many clients with a high level of professionalism and integrity, forming many lasting relations as testament to his dedication as a Realtor.

Michael also served in leadership with multiple organizations; as former president of Okanagan Mainland Real Estate Board, on the governance, finance and government relations committees, on the Governance Committee for Golf Canada, as the President of Rotary and Vice-president of the Legion, as well as, for many years the chair for the Civic and Community Awards committee. Michael was particularly honoured to officiate the Remembrance Day ceremonies in City Park, a role that deeply reflected his commitment to his country.

A veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, Michael served as captain with the Patricias from 1978-1986 stationed in Victoria, B.C. His military service was a proud chapter in his life, contributing to his strong sense of duty and community service.

Michael’s personal life was rich with interests and activities. He was a passionate singer and performer, involved with Vocals Unlimited and a barbershop quartet in Calgary. His love for music was paralleled by his enjoyment of golf, a sport he found relaxing, challenging and rule based - all the basic needs. Michael was known for his wit, a somewhat sardonic sense of humour, and a penchant for thrift store finds, often revelling in the simple joy of a weekend morning garage sale hunt. He liked to cook and friends and family enjoyed fresh baked loaves from the oven. In most recent years Michael has spent his time in the collegiality of friends and colleagues, busy as a Realtor and travelling with Sherry.

He leaves behind his partner, Sherry Danielson; children Sean (Leone), William, and Patrick Loewen (Gem); stepdaughters Elan Paulson and Laurel Paulson; grandchildren Liam, Anthony, Elena, Michael, Bella, Shane, Hayden and step-grandchild Brook, as well as his brother Darrell Loewen and sisters Rosanne Loewen and Kelly Loewen and many family and friends, all whom he loved dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Gilbert and Ellen Loewen and niece, Alexandra Gardner.

A celebration of Michael’s life will be held at the Kelowna Golf and Country Club on September 10th from 1:00- 3:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the BC Cancer Foundation, honouring Michael’s lifelong commitment to community service and care.

I would like to thank Dr. Bucarelli, especially, for her kindness, support and caring during this difficult time as well as all the staff at the cancer clinic.

“It’s’ a beautiful day in the Okanagan”


Condolence Messages
  • Aug 29, 2024
    My sincere condolences to Michael’s family and friends.Growing up in Revelstoke with Michael brings back such fond memories. RIP Michael you will be missed. - Cliff and Hedy Watson
  • Aug 26, 2024
    Our sincere condolences to all Mickael's family. We were fortunate to grow up together in the sixth street neighborhood..many fond childhood memories ! Was glad to see him at one of our many school reunions.

    Yours

    Sandra (Burgart) Deptford

    - [email protected]
  • Aug 23, 2024
    As a colleague and friend of Michael’s I am sad to hear that he has passed too soon from this life. I always enjoyed Michael as a gentleman and did not know of some of the things written about his life. He had a great sense of humour and was always very kind and gentle.

    To Sherry and his family my condolences and love and best wishes as you begin the healing process. My prayers are with you and your family. Andrew Glen. - Andrew Glen
  • Aug 21, 2024
    To the Loewen Family

    I know you will miss Michael

    -- even more than All who had the pleasure of getting to know him

    My condolences

    Fred Froese - Dr W J Fred Froese
  • Aug 21, 2024
    Rest in Peace Michael and you will always be remembered by your classmates from long ago in Revelstoke. God Bless all those who knew and loved him.

    Revelstoke "49ers. ( We will miss you at our big 75th Birthday reunion in Sept and your name will be on our list of ones we have lost. ) - [email protected]
  • Aug 19, 2024
    Rosanne and all the Loewen Family. My heartfelt condolences and warm thoughts go out to you at this difficult time. We share "Revelstoke" history - myself going to school with Michael and our parents with precious connections over the generations! Warm thoughts always. Sherrin ( Beruschi ) Stewart - Sherrin Stewart
  • Aug 19, 2024
    I am so shocked and sorry to hear of Michael's passing. I know him from his contributions to the social service sector, United Way and many groups and committees. He gave so much of himself, and will be sorely missed by so many. This city is richer because of his involvement. Condolences to Sherry and his family. - Vi Sorenson
  • Aug 17, 2024
    Sherry, so sorry to hear of the passing of your partner Michael. He passed away far too young, a reminder that cancer is never fair. Reading all the beautiful comments from friends and family, Michael sounds like a wonderful person who will be missed dearly. Big hug from your cousin as you are going through this loss. Much sympathy, Cristine Danielson and Rob Burch - Cristine Danielson
  • Aug 17, 2024
    I remember Michael a long time ago. He was always very friendly to me. Very sorry for your loss. He gave so much to the community for years. A great man. - Heather Burton
  • Aug 17, 2024
    Sherry. I am truly sorry to hear of Michael’s passing . He was such a pleasant and positive person, always willing to pitch in whenever we needed help at the Legion. Hold on to all the wonderful memories you have.

    Linda Mitchell - Linda Mitchell
  • Aug 16, 2024
    Rosanne and Lowen family;

    I send my sympathy to you on the death of Michael. He was a man of many talents and interests and always ready to serve out his faith through caring and compassion.

    God be with you and the family to comfort and strenghten you in the days ahead.

    Sincerely, Beryl - Beryl Baldeo
  • Aug 16, 2024
    Sorry it took a few days to send my condolences Sherry, Just getting over the loss of a comrade and executive member of Branch 26 Legion. Michael and I did a few "excursions" to other Legions and Army Navy clubs on Remembrance days past. What a good time! I sometimes think he did not know how to respond to my sense of humor as I did His! We laughed alot needless to say. Our Branch will certainly miss him. It was a sad day in the Okanagan July 31st. - JIm White President Branch 26 Legion
  • Aug 16, 2024
    Michael will be missed by everyone he knew in life a great person and a real gentleman Audrey Risso friend. - Audrey risso
  • Aug 15, 2024
    Roseanne, I'm so sorry for the loss of your brother. sending my sincere condolences to you and your family.

    Cheryl Ash and family

    - Cheryl Ash
  • Aug 15, 2024
    I am saddened to hear of Michael's passing. Lots of cherished family history. I went to school in Revelstoke with him. My Mom and his Mom good friends. My heartfelt warmth and love to Rosanne and family at this tender time.

    Sherrin Stewart ( Beruschi ) - Sherrin Stewart
  • Aug 15, 2024
    We were all so sad to hear of Michael's passing. Our most sincere condolences to Sherry and to Michael's family. Michael was a valued member of our singing group Vocals Unlimited. His stage presence and animation was appreciated by all of our audiences. He will be greatly missed yet fondly remembered. Rest in peace dear friend.

    Most sincerely,

    Brian Street

    Vocals Unlimited - Brian Street
  • Aug 14, 2024
    We are very saddened by Michaels passing, he fought a very brave battle to the end. A true gentleman, true professional and true friend . He will be always and truly be remembered and missed. It was a great blessing and a privilege to have known Michael over the years that we worked together and socialized together with him and Sherry and the good times we all had. What this world has lost, the angels have gained. - Lorne and Rita Ayers
  • Aug 14, 2024
    What a sad surprise it was to see this announcement. I only met Michael a few times, via United Way and with his golf friends, but he was always pleasant and had a light-hearted way about him.

    My condolences to all who are affected by this huge loss. - Barb Donaldson
  • Aug 14, 2024
    Michael was a great man and inspired many to be their best. I met him through real estate and he was always willing to share and assist however he could. He will be missed and his lessons and legacy will carry on. RIP - Tamara Stone
  • Aug 14, 2024
    To All of Michael's Family,

    My sincere condolences to you all. Michael will be missed. - Barbara Browne, RCL 26
  • Aug 14, 2024
    To all of Michael’s family.

    Please accept my sincere condolences for a very fine man who we will no longer be able to see, chat and visit with. Michael, Herb and i were part of the United Way program here in the Central Okanagan. Michael and I were fellow members and Past Presidents of the Rotary club of Kelowna so we shared a special bond. He was generous in sharing so many ideas as to how to make our community better. I will also truly miss his significant part of the Remembrance Day ceremony in City Park as it was a special time each year. Catherine - Catherine V Comben
  • Aug 14, 2024
    Our deepest condolences to the Loewen family in Michael's passing on behalf of the PPCLI Association. May he rest in peace. We will remember him

    Jason Zdyb

    Vice President - West

    PPCLI Association - Jason Zdyb
  • Aug 13, 2024
    I was so sad to hear of Michael's passing. My deepest condolences to his family. I met Michael, when he assisted us in the the sale of my Mom's property. He was such a sweet and gentle man,

    always professional, but caring. The world lost a good one! Rest In Peace Michael. - Shirley Yip
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Dear Michael's Family. I am so sorry for your loss. He was such a wonderful man and a caring friend. He was also a great chef and my family and I had some terrific home-cooked meals at his apartment. He is gone too soon and my group, Gospel Praise and I will miss him. With sincere sympathy,

    Sylvia Clerke - Sylvia Clerke
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Oh I am so deeply saddened.

    Michael was truly a wonderful human being, a man who's service to this community was immeasurable. A man who made every moment of his life count.

    There may be marble still in the jar but his spirit will stay with us forever.

    Our deepest condolences to Sherry and the family.

    - Anjy and Tony
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Condolences to the family from all members of the Edmonton Branch of the PPCLI Association. Once a Patricia Always a Patricia. At the going down of the sun and in the morning we will remember him. May he Rest in Peace VP. - Herb Kenny
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Michael brought his love for music and altruism whether in our “Vocals unlimited “are just hanging out at Brian‘s. Indeed a very special human being. May God bless his family and may each tribute and condolence bring in some small Way comfort to each of you. Sincere condolences Trish Andres. - Trish Andres
  • Aug 13, 2024
    To Michael's family. I was so sorry to hear about MIchael's death. I have known him for many years. We served together on the City of Kelowna's Civic Awards Committee, he was also a member of the Emergency Support Services Team and always came out to the Reception Centre to help the evacuees. I will miss him on Remembrance Day. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Beryl Itani - Beryl Itani
  • Aug 13, 2024
    The world has lost a kind and caring gentleman. After your exhaustive efforts to make better things for others in any way you could, may you now rest in peace, Michael. I am honoured to have known you. - M.G.
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Michael was such a nice guy, he had respect for people doing the right things

    Our thoughts and prayers are with you

    Domenic and Lina Rampone - Domenic
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Wonderful testament to a special man. Blessings to you Sherry. - [email protected]
  • Aug 13, 2024
    I wish to express the deep sympathy of the congregation of Central Okanagan United Church (and former congregation of St.Paul’s United) where Michael was a member. He will be missed especially from the Gospel Praise Choir that he leant his beautiful voice to for so many years. Michael had a strong faith in God’s presence in his life and I will think of him with a smile when I remember him singing with gusto of “leaning on the everlasting arms”. May you feel God’s comfort in the days to come and the prayers of the congregation surrounding your family.

    Cheryl Perry, minister - Cheryl Perry
  • Aug 13, 2024
    My condolences, Sherry and family. You're in my thoughts.

    Patti - Patti Carpenter
  • Aug 13, 2024
    Rosanne and family I am saddened by your loss. He was such a dedicated man to our community and will be missed. I had the pleasure to work with him over the years and it was always a pleasure. Please keep all your loving memories close to your hearts and they will always be close. With my love. - Lillian Moller
  • Aug 12, 2024
    I’m so sorry to hear of Michael’s passing. I worked with him at Royal LePage and found him to be a true gentleman and a consummate professional. I regret that he is gone too soon. - Dave Elliot
  • Aug 12, 2024
    I am so sorry to hear of Michael's passing. He was a gentleman and very thoughtful. - Marilyn Strachan
  • Aug 12, 2024
    Our sincere condolences to Michael’s family and his caring partner Sherry. We will certainly miss his wit and caring nature and his joy for life. May he rest in eternal peace. - George and Val Solomonides
  • Aug 12, 2024
    R.I.P. Michael,

    Thank you for your service to our country.

    Sincerely - Rick V
  • Aug 12, 2024
    So sorry for your loss, Sherry Brian H - Brian Hams
  • Aug 12, 2024
    I am saddened to hear the news of Michael’s passing. I first met Michael through his leadership in the United Way in the 90’s and ongoing contact with our mutual connections to local service providers. When he turned his attention to real estate, he reached out and sold our home for us. The importance of relationship, community and service shone through everything he did. Michael left us much too soon. I know many will miss him. My heart goes out to his loved ones and so many friends who will be deeply grieved with this loss.

    With sympathy, Susan Volkmann - Susan Volkmann
  • Aug 12, 2024
    Great sadness fills my heart - George Cwiklewski
  • Aug 12, 2024
    My sincere condolences to Michael's family and friends. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult and sad time. Sincerely, - Kathy York
  • Aug 12, 2024
    Barb and I are saddened at the passing of Michael, a very fine gentleman. I met Michael upon joining a singing group called Vocals Unlimited. He helped me with the music and was an inspiration to myself and everyone in the group. He always added such a positive climate to the group.He will be sorely missed. - Derek and Barb Turvey
  • Aug 12, 2024
    I am so grateful for connecting with Michael and learning much more about that part of my family. I am saddened that we never got to meet in person but will always treasure the conversations we did have. My thoughts and prayers are with all who knew and loved him. - Lisa Barthelmeus
  • Aug 12, 2024
    I am very sad to hear of Michael’s passing. As a former colleague, I was always taken back by his passion for life, family and community service. He will be deeply missed.

    - Colin Smith
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