Obituary of Rene Van Vleet

It is with profound sadness that the family of Rene Van Vleet share the news of his passing. Rene Josef Van Vleet, born August 31, 1943 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, passed away peacefully on October 28, 2024 at G.R. Baker Memorial Hospital in Quesnel, British Columbia.

He grew up and went to school in Bralorne, BC, moving to Quesnel in 1962 where he met his soulmate, Gail Anderson. They married on March 13, 1965. During all their years together, they truly lived life to the fullest. They shared a love of the outdoors, quiet time sitting by a fire, often playing guitar and singing together. They also enjoyed skiing, camping, fishing, boating, quading, biking, gardening, traveling and snowbirding. Rene spent 45 years doing various jobs, the majority of those years were spent truck driving. He worked long days but was always home in time for family dinner. Spending time with family and friends was a priority. He was often the life of the party and with his joking and humour would have everyone laughing. He had a great love of music, especially country. His favourite was Waylon, who provided the soundtrack to many gatherings. He had an ability to connect with people in a positive and warm way and would engage in a conversation with just about anyone, anywhere. This would make a quick trip downtown not so quick, as he would stop to chat with people along the way, much to the annoyance and amusement of his kids and grandkids.

Rene is survived by Gail, his loving wife of 59 years, sister Margaret Hodges (Lloyd), son Michael (Kris), daughter Michele (Terry Baratta), grandchildren Kelsey and Jordyn Baratta, Carson and Tyler Van Vleet, and many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Rene is predeceased by his father and mother, Paul and Eva Van Vleet, sisters Jean, Noella, Angela, Ida, Mary Ann and Beatrice and two brothers, John and Paul. The family wishes to extend a special thank you to Dr Ali, Tanya Joyal, and the staff in the geriatric ward at GR Baker Hospital. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Canadian Amyloidosis Support Network, and/or the Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Service is at Clayton’s Funeral Home, 582 Front St, in Quesnel on November 16, 2024 from 1:00pm-3:00pm.