April 6, 2021
We wish to announce the gentle passing of our brother, Frank George Scott, age 71, on Tuesday April 6th at his home, the Kamloops Seniors Village, Kamloops.
Frank had in recent years suffered the ever declining effects of dementia. Predeceased by his parents John (Jack) and Joan Scott, he leaves his siblings - Mary Scott Huffman, Vancouver; John Scott (Laurie) Burnaby; twin David Scott (Bonnie) New Westminster; and Jill Plaizier (Henry), Peace River. He is also survived numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and grand-nephews.
Born in Prince Rupert, Frank lived his entire life in BC. He was born with the unusual combined disabilities of hydrocephalus and spina bifida at a time where research was not as helpful as today. At that time, it was the generosity of the Shriners providing funding for needed operations that gave Frank the opportunity he took on whole-heartedly to live a full life. He was something of a miracle to live into his 70's and his family feels it was the gracious community acceptance of his differences that allowed him to pursue an adult life fully and proudly independently.
Frank was fiercely independent and lived on his own his entire adult life. He was a fixture in Kamloops Farmers' Market, downtown Victoria Street, Riverside Park, and the evening Summer Concert in the Park.
His trademark Canadian and BC flags behind his wheelchair and his large Stetson hat were often seen, just before he engaged any and all in conversation. good cheer, and a look at his collection of photographs.
His younger years in Kaslo and Birch Island were rich and active - a wonderful experience as the smaller community embraced him as one of their own, without fear or prejudice of his differences.
His most enjoyed and loved activity was swimming, especially in Dutch Lake and Little Shuswap, where the shackles of disability slipped off and he was equal to his peers. His love of whales and their environs was understandable. Frank had some wonderful trips with his sisters - notably a cruise to Alaska that included a ride on the White Pass and Yukon railway and a trip to Vancouver Island and Long Beach, Tofino.
Frank spent 2 memorable Christmases with all his family in Peace River, Alberta and Ft. St. James BC. He loved the Christmas hay ride!
Always interested in his community, Frank spent years as a Sunshine phone contact to seniors living alone, he organized a crib tournament for residents of Ponderosa Lodge, and worked in the confectionary there.
His legacy stands tall - He never let his disability become who he was. His family cherishes the gift of his life meshing so lovingly with theirs.
Frankie, you ain't heavy, you're my brother. God Bless You.
We particularly wish to thank the staff of Kamloops Seniors Village and the wonderful service of Dr. Chip Bantock, who led Frank to freely enjoy a life of risk and happiness.
Cremation with no service at this time. The family will hold a Celebration of Frank's life later this summer.
Memories and condolences may be left at: www.schoeningfuneralservice.com