Obituary of Roland James Portman

It is with deep sorrow that we report, our husband, father, and papa Roland James Portman has passed away in his sleep at

the Pines Special Care Home in Kimberley on October 31, 2023.

Rolly was born June 28, 1941 to Roland Sr. and Doris Portman. He lived all of his life in Kimberley, and was proud to be a Chapman Camp kid.

Rolly worked for Cominco for 38 years at Benson Lake, Kimberley fertilizer plant and the Sullivan Mine.

One of his most prized things in life were his grandchildren Devyn, Denay, Lucas, and Jacob. He loved to tease them right to the end.

Rolly is survived by his loving wife Fran of 51 years, 2 sons Wade (Shannon), Carl (Eva), sister Margaret Pilon, niece Barb Pilon, nephew Mike Pilon (Michelle), great niece Christine (Chris) and great-great niece’s Camilla and Chloe. He is also survived by numerous brothers in law, and sisters in law, and by many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to extend our sincere gratitude and thanks to the staff at the Pines, you made Rolly’s stay comfortable and shared lots of laughter. Thank you to Dr. Shaun VanZyl, Dr. Karen Pont, Ryan Sleik, Rev. Alwin Maben, Elaine Pickles, and Val Bromley for helping care for Rolly over the last 5 years. Also thank you to our family and friends for all you have done for us over the last few years. Thank you to McPhersons Funeral Home.

Rolly loved to wear his blue jeans, so feel free to wear your jeans to his service.

The Memorial Service will be held at The Shared Ministry Church #10 Boundary St., in Kimberley at 2:00 PM, Wednesday, November 8, 2023.

The service will be livestreamed. To find the livestream link please go to mcphersonfh.com and go to Roland’s obituary.

Memorial Donations in Rolly’s name to The Pines Memorial Society and Development Society, 386 2^nd Ave, Kimberley, BC, V1A 2Z8

“Tap r Light”