Obituaries

MCKINLEY, John Kenneth

January 16, 1961 - May 3, 2019

John passed away peacefully at home in Kelowna listening to Neil Young after a brave battle with cancer. He was 58 years old.

John was born in Vancouver and grew up in West Vancouver. He spent some time logging along the coast in the 1980’s. He eventually ended up in Kelowna working at what is now Tolko Lumber, Kelowna Division. He worked there for 32 years as Weekend Forklift Driver/Chip attendant until his illness forced him to stop.

John was a true and loyal friend to many and was always the first to take charge, taking care of the people that meant the most to him. There was rarely a day that went by when he wasn’t digging, planting, tearing down or building something. On the rare days he relaxed it was riding his Harley or sitting around the pool with friends drinking a cold one.

John leaves behind his partner Donna, her parents Cathy and Joe, daughters Jodika(Julian), Gabrielle(Johnny), sister Leanne(Guy), Deena(Mauro) and Jarren and a very close clan of the Collin’s family. He was predeceased by both his parents, Kenneth in 2005 and Evelyn in 2012.

Many Thanks to his team of Doctors, The Kelowna Cancer Clinic, BC Palliative Care Nurses and North Shore Home Support who all made it possible for him to stay at home until the end.

John requested no service but we had A Celebration Of Life here at the home he loved so much. His ashes will be spread by the Ocean where he grew up and had so many great memories. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations can be made to The Central Okanagan Hospice Association (COHA) in John’s memory.

Condolence Messages

Mar 01, 2021
I knew John during his logging days on the coast. I was a little envious that he got to take a float plane to work and back. Sad to find out about his passing.

Bob Pohn
Aug 07, 2020
I knew John as a kid. I found out about his passing away when searching the internet to find out what happened to him. John as a boy had a great heart and considerable courage. He felt safe to be with; a strong, understanding, encouraging, and loyal person who accepted others as they were. He was a bright light in my childhood. May his memory be for a blessing. Carol Read
May 29, 2019
Sorry to hear about John. Condolences to Donna and Family.

Travis Janes
May 10, 2019
Donna, so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you during this very sad time.

Connie Phillips
May 09, 2019
He will be missed.

Mary Ellen
May 08, 2019
I'm very sorry to hear this from you today Donna. John can rest now. He'll be missed by everyone that knew him. Take good care of yourself.

From Rudi and family
May 07, 2019
So sorry Donna. I heard from you today. My heart and prayers are with you. Mama Bear at Husky
May 07, 2019
I'm thankful to have worked with and known John as a friend. His big heart, strong laugh and wealth of knowledge will be missed. My condolences to Donna and his family.

RIP buddy.

Mike J
May 07, 2019
Take of yourself Big Sister.

MM
May 07, 2019
Sorry to hear about John passing. My condolences to Donna and family.

Jack Campos
May 07, 2019
John was an important member of our neighbourhood and we will miss him. My condolences to Donna and his family. I'll miss sharing Porsche stories with him.

Irma
May 07, 2019
So sorry to hear John passed away Donna.

Bill Aarts