James Steli

March 4, 2024

In Loving Memory

James Steli

It is with broken hearts that we announce the passing of James Steli on March 4, 2024 after a very brave battle with melanoma. He had just turned 55.

James found joy in the simple pleasures in life such as a beer with a friend while working on a vehicle, camping in his Volkswagen van or enjoying the tranquility of nature.  He touched the lives of all who knew him, and many will remember him as a caring and friendly bus driver who ensured safe journeys for countless passengers. His skillful hands as a mechanic kept engines running smoothly and he always had time to help a friend out if they were broken down. He also had a green thumb and loved growing vegetables and fruit and transforming his yard into a beautiful, serene space that bloomed with beauty and abundance. He made the tastiest homemade pies with fruit from his garden and the best loaves of bread!

His unwavering love for Donna, the love of his life, was evident and after deeply loving each other for 2 years, they had planned to be married, in hopes of spending the rest of their lives together. Donna was his rock and a pillar of strength when he fell ill and she dedicated every minute to care for him and make sure he was always comfortable and well taken care of during his last few weeks. She will forever miss her Sweet James and will continue to love him until they meet again.

James will be sadly missed by everyone who knew and loved him.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Odd Fellows Hall on Tranquille Rd on March 30, 2024 at 1 p.m.

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:

T: 250-554-2324 F: 250.554.3505

665 Tranquille Rd #4,
Kamloops, BC V2B 3H7

E: [email protected]

Leave a comment

Comments: 6

  1. miriam stables says:

    Very sorry to hear of the passing of James. May he rest in peace. My sincere condolences to his family, friends and those who loved him. mimi

  2. Filomena says:

    I send my heartfelt condolences to Donna and all the family .I was totally shocked to hear of his passing . . James was a wonderful person. He always had a smile on face and would always tease me as to when I was going to come back as a bus driver . #338 . we worked together for many years had many laughs and good conversations. He will be missed dearly. May you find comfort in knowing that he is resting in God’s memory. My condolences Filomena. James would always call me filly .

  3. Renee Kathleen Taylor says:

    Mar. 27/24.
    To the Steli Family:
    Hello! I’m sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. James Steli. He was a very nice BC Transit Operator, and I felt happy to get on his bus as a passenger. R. I. P.
    Renee K. Taylor,
    Kamloops, BC.

  4. Ihor Starchuk says:

    My sincere condolences to the Steli family and to Donna, who I know loves James dearly. It was very sad to hear of James death. I’ve known James for 30 years and he has been a great friend. He was always really positive in himself no matter what was going on and I admired him for that. We enjoyed many craft beers together and his favorite woolow (one of his unique terms). I will miss him and always be grateful for his friendship.

    Ihor

  5. Nigel says:

    I knew James the bus driver, a nice lad, very quiet, loved to drive his VW, His lover Donna such a beautiful and wonderful lady when I found out they were dating my heart kind was excited

    I hope James is shining down on Kamloops and being with Donna during her grieving time.

    Nameste

  6. Denise Chaboyer says:

    I’m so shocked to hear of this sad sad news. We drove buses together at transit and Rocky Mountaineer. He had such a kind gentle soul and still called me 345…lol. Gone to soon, and heaven has another angel. My deepest of condolences to his family.

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