Advanced Search:


Regular Search
❮ Go Back to Listings

DR. WILLIAM JOHN (JACK) WANKLING

Born: Nov 05, 1936

Date of Passing: Sep 08, 2001

Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or Memory

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

DR. WILLIAM JOHN (JACK) WANKLING Born November 5, 1936 in Brandon, MB, passed away peacefully at home, September 8, 2001. He is survived by and will be dearly missed by his loving wife Wilma; his four children, Jill (Rob Zeer) of Calgary, Gilbert (Joanne) of Prince George, Janis (Jock Craddock) of Kelowna, and Patricia of Vernon; six grandchildren, Conor, Luke, Issac, Angus, Samantha and Gabrielle; his brothers, Bob of Calgary, Jim of Winnipeg; and sister Betty of Brandon. Jack attended the University of Brandon and the University of Manitoba graduating in 1961 with his M.D. He continued his training in General and Thoracic Surgery at the U. of M. followed by a two year Fellowship in Sheffield, England, passing his Fellowship exams in 1968. He spent one year working as a General Surgeon in Cranbrook prior to moving to Kelowna in 1969 where he practiced General and Thoracic Surgery until his retirement in 1992. Jack was passionate about his work. Improving medical care at Kelowna General Hospital was always important to him. At various times he held the following posts at KGH: Chief of Staff; Chief of Surgery; Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee and Member of the Hospital Board. Jack was instrumental in setting up the Gastrointestinal Lab at KGH and he brought major Thoracic Surgery to the hospital. Jack lived life to the fullest. He brought laughter and joy to those around him. In his youth he goal tended for the Brandon Wheat Kings and played university football. He was a past-president of the Youth Soccer Association and in the 1980s was part owner and president of the Kelowna Packers Junior Hockey team. Throughout his life he was an avid reader. In his later years he enjoyed golf, fly fishing, skiing, and especially his grandchildren. He will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. A special thanks to the many people who gave Jack care and support during his illness including Drs. Aldous, Nash, Nelems, Khoo, Brosseuk, Mulholland, Nobel, and Fox; the nursing staff in ICU, ambulatory care and the wards; the x-ray, pathology and physio staff; Jacks many friends who loved and supported him in his final days. Extra special thanks to Mom whose compassion and determination kept our Dads dreams and hopes alive. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 13 at the Cathedral Church of St. Michael and All Angels, 608 Sutherland Ave., Kelowna. A celebration of Jacks life will follow at the clubhouse, Gallaghers Canyon Golf and Country Club. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation, in memory of Dr. W.J. Wankling, 2268 Pandosy St., Kelowna, BC V1Y 1T2.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 11, 2001

❮ Go Back to Listings