July 18 1942 – July 25 2008
It is with the deepest sorrow that we say goodbye to our much loved Eddie, who passed away peacefully and surrounded by love at the Victoria Hospice.
Born in Pouce Coupe, B.C., Ed spent his formative years in north eastern BC, on his family farm, in Shearerdale north of Dawson Creek. He moved to the West Coast as a teenager and graduated as a journeyman welder in Nanaimo. Ed became a member of the Pipefitters Union, (Local 170) and remained a member in good standing for over 35 years.
His work brought him to many places in British Columbia including Victoria, Prince Rupert, Nanaimo, Port Alberni, Port Alice and eventually Sointula, where he was sought after for his welding skills and became famous for his innovative wood stoves among other inventions.
Ed worked hard all his life and had many passions that kept him busy. His ability to grow delicious vegetables, produce honey from his bees, his artful and expert knowledge of welding, his love for the outdoors, and the pleasure he found in fishing and hunting all contributed to his fondness of life. Ed also loved to ride his Harley, play his guitar and sing into the wee hours of the morning. He had many pleasures in life, but his greatest joy came from helping others. His generous and gentle spirit was a comfort to the many who knew him. He will be sorely missed by his family, neighbours and many friends.
He leaves behind his loving family including: partner, Oonagh O’Connor, and children Danny Knapp (Nancy Anne), Wendy Morlock (Tracy) and Sean O’Connor; brothers Derek (Elaine) and Gary (Pierette); and sisters: Marilyn and Janeen; and grandchildren: Kyle and Coral Morlock.
Ed is predeceased by his mother and father, Eileen and Fred Knapp.
A memorial for Ed will take place on August 9, 2008 at 2pm at the graveyard in Sointula, followed by refreshments and a celebration of his life at the FO Hall.
We would like to thank the many Sointula community members for their support during the last several months and the Victoria Hospice Society for the incredible care they provided.