Andrew Thomas Gourlay

It is with great sadness that the family of Andrew ‘Andy’ Gourlay announce his passing.

Andy died on Sunday, November 10th at home surrounded by family. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 52 years, Lynda and by his children Darren (Mark), Joanne (Shawn) and Helen (James). He leaves five grandchildren Devon, Tyler, Jordan (Caitlyn), Jadon and Jennessa, great granddaughter Bella May and a brother Michael (Avril).

Andy, with family in tow landed in Canada in the 80’s. First settling in Ontario but it was in Kelowna, British Columbia that they found ‘home’. Andy and Lyn took over the running of Camp Owasai in the Westside and created many unforgettable memories for the summer campers. Some may remember Andy the Easter Bunny or Andy the Handyman!

Andy also became a long-serving member of the Wilson’s Landing Volunteer Fire Department and in June 2019 received the Governor General’s Fire Service Exemplary 20 Year Service Medal.

For many years Andy was the Santa for the Wilson’s Landing Fire Department as they delivered gifts at Christmas by fire engine. Andy truly loved this role and knew every child’s name. He later became the Santa for Mission Hill Family Estate Winery bringing a special magic to their children’s events.

It was no secret that Andy had a passion for trains. He spent many happy hours visiting train museums, traveling on trains around the world with Lyn and building train sets at home. In the words of Thomas the Tank Engine, “little engines can do really BIG things”.

A Celebration of Life will be held Friday, November 15, at 3:00pm at St. George’s Anglican Church, 3690 Brown Road, Westbank, BC with Reverend Cannon Roger Cooper Officiating.