Gerald James Tewnion

Gerald James Tewnion (Gerry) passed away peacefully, surrounded by his wife and family, January 22, 2024. He was born on March 8, 1943, in Vancouver, BC.  Gerry lived and attended school on Sea Island, where he met the love of his life, Gloria, at the tender age of 15. Gloria and Gerry were married in 1963, and had their first child, Leanne, in 1965, followed by Will in 1968. They raised their children in their early years in Richmond, BC, and then moved to Kamloops in 1972. They built a wonderful life in Kamloops where Gerry practiced his entrepreneurial skills by starting a recreational vehicle (RV) business that sparked “Arvey the Purple Moose”.  Arvey went on to be the mascot for his second business Arvey Lanes Bowling.  Gerry happily ran Arvey Lanes for well over 20 years.  He made many friends and made many people happy running this bowling centre.  Referred to as “bowling lanes” not “bowling alley”.  His well-know admonition – “Bowling lanes, not a bowling alley.  You get mugged in an alley.  It is bowling LANES.”  Gerry loved the kids who worked for him and those who spent time in the arcade game room of his bowling centre. 

Gerry had 4 siblings, Bill Tewnion, Carol Slade, and twin sister Flo Wale. Gerry was self-appointed protector of his twin sister Flo! He was unfortunately predeceased by both his sisters a few short days apart. Our Gerry loved to dance, and there are many wonderful memories of him jiving with Aunty Flo, and with his Gloria who he never missed an opportunity get up on the dance floor with. He even made a wonderful memory last summer when he was recorded dance-serenading his love, Gloria, to “Forever and Ever Amen”.  A fitting memory to capture as he will surely love Gloria “Forever and Ever Amen.”

Gerry leaves behind his daughter Leanne (Don Gourlay) Tewnion, his granddaughter Alexis (Scott) Smith and their children, Chad Gourlay and his children, Nathan (Dallas) Gourlay and their children, and Justine (Brodie) Rinaldi and their children. He also leaves behind his son Will (Janet) Tewnion, his grandson Kyle (Kayla) Tewnion, his grandson Steven (Krista) Smolinski and their child, and his granddaughter Alicia (Dave) Heynen and their children. He also has numerous nieces and nephews, along with their children, and their children’s children!! He loved being a part of his nieces and nephews lives and had very special relationships with each of them in different ways. His door was always open, and his words were always loving and honest.  He also wasn’t afraid of a little “tough love” – even for them!

Gerry had a very hearty, and often unfiltered sense of humour. He was fearless in his presentation! Many of his jokes were off color and designed to embarrass. He was good at it! But that was a trait that everyone loved about him. He loved to make us laugh. He had a life well lived, and very full of love that he never hesitated to express!

Teacher, friend, and confidant to all. He was his son’s hero, his daughter’s safe place, and the love of his wife’s life.  He will be missed dearly.

Please join us on June 15, 2024, between 1pm and 4pm for a celebration of life in one of his favorite spots!  His daughter’s backyard at 1776 Happyvale Avenue, Kamloops, BC.  We will be providing refreshments and snacks at this alcohol-free gathering, and we look forward to sharing stories about Gerry with you all.

Arrangements entrusted to

Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-554-2324

Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services: