Frank Bothe Obituary
We are saddened to announce the sudden and unexpected passing of Frank Bothe on March 10, 2023. Beloved husband, father, grandfather, and uncle. Frank was predeceased by his parents; sister, Laura Fallu; and nephew, Rick Fallu.
Frank is survived by his loving wife Candi Bothe (née Costa); his children, James Bothe and Amanda Carson (Cory); as well as his grandchildren, Lindsay and Joel Armstrong; his brother-in-Law, Don Fallu; sister and brothers-in-law, Olinda & Andre Ferreira and Carnation & Robert St. Amand; as well as many nieces, nephews, and numerous cousins. Frank especially enjoyed the company of his cousins, who treated him more like a brother than a cousin.
Frank was born to Ewald and Linda Bothe, on July 23, 1951, in Heikendorf, Germany. He was a construction worker who loved his family, often expressing that love through his selflessness and good-hearted nature.
Frank immigrated with his family at the tender age of one month to Weyburn, Saskatchewan, later moving to Oak Lake, Manitoba, and finally to Kelowna, BC in 1957.
Frank started his construction journey as a young man, initially learning to paint as a teenager, and later as a carpet layer. His determination and work ethic continued as he worked his way to become foreman and superintendent on multiple projects across the city, province, and elsewhere. Frank loved his career and was especially proud of his achievements, regularly bringing his work home, enjoying it so much that he would often dream about it at night.
In the summer of 1971, Frank met the love of his life and soul mate, Candida “Candi” Costa. Frank and Candi were married on June 8, 1974. They spent 48 years together laughing, travelling, and making memories of a lifetime.
Frank loved spending time with family and friends, never missing the opportunity to socialize. Although he was a quiet man, he was always in the midst of every celebration. When he was at home, he preferred to be surrounded by family playing Gin Rummy, Crib, Monopoly, and watching the news (with his eyes closed). He was always first to volunteer to run errands and “Uber” family members all across town.
Frank loved skiing, golf, cards, and travelling. Among his travels were Turkey, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, France, Mexico, Thailand, Hawaii, and New York City. His best travel experiences were with his children to California, and hockey trips with his son, James, to anywhere in the Pacific NorthWest.
Frank was an avid sandwich maker, snack aficionado, and beer and wine connoisseur. His generosity was first extended to whichever kids happened to be in the vicinity. Even though he first ensured the kids’ sweet tooth was satiated, he was first to greet any adult who walked through the doors with a drink of their choice – to which he also seized the opportunity to grab one (or more) for himself.
His passing has left an indelible mark on the family which will never be fully healed. He was the family’s steadfast rock and will be forever missed.
In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
A Celebration of Life will be held on MONDAY, MARCH 20, 2023, at 1:00 PM (PDT), at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME (2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC). Interment will take place at 2:30 PM, at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery (1991 Bernard Ave, Kelowna, BC). A reception will follow.