Obituary of Mauno Elmer Pelto

Dad’s love for hockey started as a little boy, playing goal in neighborhood street hockey games. He soon realized that he didn’t like pucks being shot at him and moved to the position of defense, where he spent the rest of his hockey career. In the ’50s he played for the Calgary Buffaloes, Coleman Coalers, Medicine Hat Tigers, Kimberley Dynamiters, and the Wembley Lions in England. Dad always told great stories of his hockey days and the antics he and his buddies got into. After hanging up his skates his love of hockey continued. He was president of the Kimberley Dynamiters, coached minor hockey, and was forever a dedicated hockey fan. 

He married “the best thing that happened to him” Viola in 1958 and was married for 63 years, until her passing in 2021. They spent a short time living at the HB Mine near Salmo and then settled in Kimberley. There he worked for Cominco and after retiring consulting with his company Mine Design. Dad spent most of his life in Kimberley and passed in the home that he built and loved on Howard Street.  

Dad is reunited with family that has gone ahead of him: wife Viola, parents Bertha and Matt, stepfather Martin, son Curtis, and grandson Brandon. He leaves with precious memories his sister Helen, son Clayton (Darlene), daughters Jenniffer and Jodine (John), and his grandkids Zack, Jaxon, and Jayla. He will be dearly missed and is forever in our hearts. 

We would like to thank Dr. Buddo, Dr. Wik, and the Community Care Team for caring for Dad. The respect and understanding you showed him did not go unnoticed and was truly appreciated. A special thank-you to his wonderful neighbours who were always looking out for him and gave a helping hand when needed. 

An informal time to gather and honour Dad has been planned for Saturday, December 3rd from 1-4pm, at his home on Howard Street. Please stop in to share stories and memories.