Marlon Schaper-Kotter
May 24, 1971 - July 7, 2026
In Loving Memory
Marlon Schaper-Kotter
Marlon Schaper-Kotter, age 55, passed away leaving behind a legacy of love, loyalty, and laughter.
Many know Marlon as a talented carpenter, superintendent, locksmith, safety officer, volunteer firefighter, sports coach, or proud business owner. His work ethic, perseverance, and desire to mentor will be remembered and cherished by his family, friends, colleagues and former players.
Marlon loved to tell jokes, make people laugh and spread happiness in every moment. He enjoyed fishing, sports, camping and taking memorable trips with the family. He shared a special bond with his family pets and showed love and compassion for all animals. He held a special place in the hearts of relatives across generations.
More than anything, Marlon was dedicated to his family first. He was the center and foundation of his family’s world, as the devoted and loving husband of Michelle Skillnik, and the incredibly proud and loving father of his three children: Justin (Larissa), Colton (Ashleigh), and Kassidy. Whether he was coaching, cheering from the sidelines, or simply being there when needed, he was always there to support the family and never missed a moment.
Marlon’s family will carry forward his love, strength and vibrant spirit, and will always cherish the memories they made together. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered with love.
Arrangements entrusted to
Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services 250-558-0866
Condolences may be expressed to the family by phone or email through Cypress Funeral & Cremation Services:
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Comments: 11
Having the opportunity to know Marlon through our time in training together at WorkSafeBC was a high point for me. He brought such sincerity, humour, and depth of experience and knowledge to our group. He was so good at what he did – empathic but firm, deeply intelligent but down to earth, willing to challenge but always seeking to learn, and ever-generous with his knowledge and support. He is inspiring to me and I will hold close his memory. Deepest condolences and wishes of peace and tranquility to Marlon’s family, friends, and coworkers.
Rest in peace, Marlon.
I met Marlon through training as well. Both big guys with a long work and life experience history, but what captured my attention was Marlons kindness, his enormous smile and what appeared to be even a bigger heart. While our conversations were more aligned to the new job and our training, it was obvious we had more similarities than size…. he was deeply committed to raising the bar to safety and his family. I will miss him, his smile, his intelligence, and offering my condolences to family and friends alike.
It seems in life that every now and then you meet someone who is exceptional. Marlon is that person. While I didn’t have the pleasure of getting to know Marlon on a personal level, I did have the good fortune to spend a lot of time with Marlon in a professional setting. Marlon often spoke of his family and his love of off roading. Marlon was always smiling and brought a high level of professionalism to his work. I will greatly miss our conversations and his enthusiasm for helping others.
So long Marlon, you will be missed.
My sincerest condolences to Marlons family and friends. I trained with Marlon at WSBC and was privileged to absorb some of the insight that Marlon brought to the role. Simple but true ideas. I will carry some of his ideas though my career. He resolved to be the best officer that he was capable of, through firm, thoughtful decisions and humble behavior. He spoke about his family often and how proud he was of his children. He was a kind and gentle person in a warrior’s body.
“When you are sorrowful look again in your heart, and you shall see that in truth you are weeping for that which has been your delight”.
-Kahlil Gibran
The Skolrood families would like to express our most heartfelt sympathies with the passing of Marlon. He was a favorite person in our household through the Coldstream fire dept, through lacrosse and through construction. He will be missed and remembered fondly, especially his wonderful smile. How lucky are we all to have had him in our lives, rest in peace friend.
Our condolences to all of the family. We got to know Marlon while our boys were playing hockey together and later on had some work dealings. Marlon was a big man with a huge heart, always had a huge smile and a contagious laugh. It was always easy to see that his family was the most important part of his life. Through our business dealings Marlon was top notch and took pride in anything he did.
Rest in peace
Very sad to hear of your passing, rest in peace brother. If I’m going into battle I’d want you on my side. You will be missed on the court and in the lacrosse box.
Hugs to your family!
So sad and shocked to hear this. Marlon was an amazing guy to be around, funny, great worker, awesome coach and the dad that every kid should have.
Our condolences to Michelle, kids and the rest of the family.
This world is less of a place without his smile, wit and humor
Rest in peace my friend!
Michelle and family,
I’ve started writing this so many times, and I still don’t really know what to say. I guess I am still in disbelief.
There are no words that seem adequate for the loss of Marlon, or for the hole he has left behind. There are those in life that are wallflowers and then there are the very few that are larger than life. Marlon was in that category – there was never a moment with him that I took for granted.
Marlon started out as a fellow officer, but through our twice daily walks in Richmond, he became so much more than a colleague. He became my closest friend. He was someone I could laugh hysterically with, talk to, vent to, and count on. He built up my confidence like no other. We shared so many conversations, ridiculous moments, good times, and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I felt like I had won the “friendship lottery”. Men in their 50’s don’t make friends easily, so this was a gift.
I know how deeply Marlon loved his family, and how important you all were to him. We talked about each one of you all the time. His pride was immense and he was the role model of what a husband and father should be – active and engaged.
As his friend, I feel incredibly fortunate that he allowed me to be part of his life and the different roles he played -husband, father, son in-law, friend, officer, and genuinely amazing all around great guy.
Watching what Marlon went through was incredibly difficult. But even through everything, he remained Marlon. He continued to care about the people around him, to find reasons to laugh, and to be there for the people he loved. His strength and courage left an impression on me that I will never forget. I feel so honored that Ashley and I were able to be there throughout.
Michelle, I know that you know how much Marlon meant to me. I know that you know how much I valued his friendship and how profoundly his loss has affected me. Ash and I talk about him every day and there have been countless times that we have said to each other “Marlon would have done this… or said that…”. This actually speaks to his authenticity and consistency as a man. Two qualities we loved about him.
I’m grateful for every conversation, every laugh, every adventure, and every memory. Most of all, I’m grateful that our paths crossed and that I had the privilege of calling Marlon my friend.
My heart goes out to all of you. I’m so glad that you have so many memories that can bring you comfort. Kassidy, as the family’s documentarian, captued so many videos and photos that help keep him in our hearts and serve as an additional reminder of how lucky we all are to have been blessed with a guy like that in our lives.
Marlon will be missed more than words can say, and he will never be forgotten.
As I finish this letter, I can see Marlon giving me that look and saying “It will be okay Brad”.
Love you guys,
Brad
So saddened to hear of Marlon’s passing. He was always such an encouraging coach and always had a big smile on his face. Sending love and light to Michelle and the kids
RIP Marlon
We love ❤️ you !!!!
From your brother Fred and family Rose, Robert and Deanna.
I am sure Oma and your brothers Robert and Hans have welcomed you with open arms.
Always in my prayers.
Schaper-Kotter