Obituary

The family of Rick Unrau is heartbroken to announce his sudden passing on August 31, 2022, at the age of 59 years. Born to Jim & Sherilyn Unrau, on September 9, 1962 in Dawson Creek, BC, Rick enjoyed a fantastic youth, filled with almost unbelievable (yet corroborated) outdoor escapades in Buick, BC. Rick is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Charryll, their 3 children Jamie, Jennelle (Casey), and Daniel, two grandchildren, parents Jim & Sherilyn, sisters Lisa (Henry), Deidra, and Lynn in addition to his many in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Rick was a fearless adventurer, who often only trekked back into cell range to assure us he was fine – he had been a placer gold miner all over the hills and valleys of BC and Alaska since the 80s, he starred in a documentary reliving the famous Klondike Gold Rush traversing Yukon’s Chilkoot Trail, he was a member of the Nickel Plate Mine Rescue team, and proudly volunteered 22 years with Penticton Search & Rescue. If you knew Rick, you undoubtedly heard him say once, or many times, “Gee, I wonder where this road goes?” and before you knew it, you’d both know the answer. His life was wonderfully punctuated by his drive to explore and learn. Often a man of few words, Rick spared none to express his love for and pride in his family. Nothing made him stand taller than an opportunity to recount a cherished story of his immediate and extended family and friends, near and far. Rick’s strength, capacity, and determination made him the first call placed in a time of need for many; we are all better for having had him in our lives.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Penticton Search & Rescue