Ethel Marie Knight

Born in Katrime, Manitoba (Rural Municipality of Westbourne) on July 30, 1928, Marie lived a full, vibrant life defined by warmth, travel, and a keen love for her family and hobbies.

Marie was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gordon; her sister, Dorene Rinta; brother-in-law, Ed Rinta; niece, Sandra Fugger; and great-niece, Melissa Pearsehouse.

She is lovingly remembered and survived by her sister, Pat Pearsehouse (Al); nephew, Scott Pearsehouse; and nieces, Judy Rinta, Dawna Robertson (Peter), and Sherra Papaioannou (Tom).

Marie and Gordon were married in Winnipeg, Manitoba, on July 6, 1957. As Gordon’s career with Imperial Oil took them across Western Canada, Marie became the ultimate moving expert and home researcher, seamlessly establishing comfortable new homes across all four western provinces. In 1973, they made their final move together to Montrose Avenue in Kelowna, British Columbia.

An adventurous spirit, Marie loved exploring Canada, the U.S., and Europe alongside Gordon. Summer camping was a tradition—though strictly in a well-stocked trailer, as tenting was out of the question! She was a meticulous gardener who took immense pride in her plants, as well as an active sports enthusiast who enjoyed golf, Nordic skiing, and curling. A passionate fan of the sport, watching the Scotties and the Brier was always a non-negotiable priority.

Following Gordon’s passing in 1994, Marie continued to live independently on Montrose Avenue. In 2015, deciding she had done her fair share of cooking and home maintenance, she moved into her suite at Sandalwood Retirement Resort. She cherished her eleven years there, filling her days with wonderful new friendships. After a health setback this past April, Marie transitioned smoothly into full care at The Vineyards.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Senior Helpers, as well as the compassionate staffs at Sandalwood and The Vineyards for their exceptional care and support.

Interment of Ethel’s ashes will take place of Friday August 14, 2026, at 9: 30 a.m at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery. A memorial service will directly follow at 10:30 a.m. Friday August 14, 2026, at First Memorial Funeral Services, 1211 Sutherland Ave, Kelowna, BC.

Services