Pho, Frank

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Frank Pho on December 15, 2010.

Frank was born October 4, 1925 in Estevan, Saskatchewan, one of six children of Leo and Julia Pho. As a young man Frank moved west to BC and began a 40 year career in the mining industry, first in the coal mines of the Elk Valley at Michel, later in the copper mines at Brittania Beach.

Later he worked at many gold mines in the Stewart area until he left to serve Canada in the Korean war, where he was seriously wounded.

After the war and his recovery he returned to mining in the Slocan Valley, settling in New Denver. He met and married Federike (Riki) and built the Lucerne Motel in New Denver while continuing with his own mining company, Frank Pho Mining.

Two children were born, Viki and Mark. Frank was very involved in the community during the 1960’s & 70’s as presidnt of the Kinsmen and Royal Canadian Legion while still operating the motel and his mining operation into the 1980’s, when he moved to Nelson.

In 1986 he began his second career as manager of the Granite Manor Apartments, a career he was still doing at the time of his death.

Frank lived a full friutful life and was able to achieve his dream of being productive right up to his sudden death and leaves a void that will be hard to fill. Frank was predeceased by his parents, siblings and wife Riki and leaves to mourn his loving children, Viki (Ron)Boese of Cranbrook, and Mark of Vernon as well as one surviving sibling, Rose Dorish of Prince George.

During his lifetime Frank touched many peoples lives and he will be sadly missed.

At his request there will be no Memorial service, however the family will be holding a Celebration of Life at a later date. As an expresssion of sympathy family and friends may make donation to ALS Society of BC, or a charity of your choice.