Obituaries

OXTOBY, Stephen Dodd

OXTOBY, Stephen (Steve) Dodd - Passed away unexpectedly in Kelowna, British Columbia on November 22, 2021. He is survived by his mom Eva; sister Carol Lee (Jerry); nieces Emily and Erica; daughter Melissa; grandchildren Payton and Reid, and numerous extended family and friends. Sadly, he was predeceased by his dad Barry Oxtoby in 1993.

Steve was born September 11, 1959, and grew up in the small village of Cheltenham, Ontario attending high school at Mayfield Secondary. As a child, Steve loved playing ball, biking, and lacrosse. When older, he lived for winters downhill skiing and summer golf games. A lover of animals, Steve made special bonds with his fur-friends, especially Ringo and Angie.

As a talented cable engineer, Steve thrived in his career working for Bell Canada in the position of cable splicer. He spent many days down manholes and his hands paid the price. Later, he also received an Addictions Studies diploma from McMaster University with a focus in EFAP. An intelligent mathematician, Steve's strength was financial planning which he so thoroughly enjoyed. Until 2001, Steve resided in Guelph, Ontario but eventually followed his sister and mom to Prince George, then West Kelowna.

Struggling throughout life with alcoholism and mental illness, Steve never gave up trying to be sober. He entered many treatment programs on his own will. Though he made mistakes in his journey, he had huge remorse and made amends where possible. He loved his family deeply and cherished the positive times we had together. Others in his life, who we never got to know, were his emotional support. Hopefully, you know who you are and that you're appreciated.
You will forever be loved, Steve. We know you are now resting in peace with Dad.

A service of remembrance will take place at Everden Rust Funeral Services, 1910 Windsor Road in Kelowna on Tuesday, December 7th at 10:30 am. Condolences to the family may be sent to www.everdenrust.com. Steve was well taken care of by the Kelowna Gospel Mission. Please consider a donation to a shelter or a treatment/sober living center of your choice.

Link: www.everdenrust.com

Condolence Messages

Dec 17, 2023
We are saddened to hear of Stephen’s passing. Thinking about you both, Carol Lee and Eva, as you mourn your loss. So many happy memories of our young lives in Cheltenham.

Mary Grace, Jamie and Grace - Mary Grace Blair
Oct 10, 2022
Steve was a sweet, funny, fun loving, and very handsome boy in highschool. I'm so sorry to hear he's gone. Sincere condolences to the family and to his friends. - Marie Galea
Dec 02, 2021
Rest in paradise my friend I am so sorry for the family loss. I met him a few months ago and him and I became close, you will be missed. Stevo
Dec 02, 2021
Carol Lee and family,

I am so sorry for your loss. Please know I am thinking of you and your family.

Shelley D.
Dec 02, 2021
Aunt Eva, Carol Lee and Melissa

Thinking of you and offering you and your family sincere condolences. Remembering fondly my last time spent with Steve, I would like to share it with you. It was shortly before he left Ontario for BC. Having been the caretaker of Uncle Barry's work bench, it was now time for me to give it back where it could take its rightful place of honour in their new home. Getting the bench into the basement of our home in Mississauga had been a challenge and getting it out was equally awkward, but Steve and Jason managed to muscle it out. The evening was getting on and the work was done, so it was time to enjoy the deck and the beautiful weather. Steve, Jason and I sat out for a couple of hours enjoying our time together. I was interested to learn that he had done some courses in financial planning and was excited to be making a new start in BC. Steve stayed the night with us, leaving the next morning with Uncle Barry's work bench in the back of a truck. I am grateful that this fond memory is etched in my memory. Rest in peace cousin Steve. Love, Lorraine, Jason and Kyle