Beloved husband and father, Jeffrey Baltrus, passed away suddenly in Invermere, B.C. on October 11, 2016 at age 66. He was born to John and Margaret (Palmer) Baltrus in Stamford, Connecticut, and his desire to live in the remote north led him across the continent to the Yukon, where he met his wife, Arlene (Langerud).

Jeff supported his family as a journeyman carpenter living in Atlin, B.C. on a staked homestead, until his love of learning and teaching brought them to Vancouver, where he received his teaching certificate.

He worked as a carpentry teacher in Canal Flats, however his yearning to own a piece of land again led them to Creston, where they lived for nine years on an acreage. 14 years ago, the family moved back to the Columbia Valley where he owned and operated Kootenay Builders.

Jeff will be remembered for his eagerness to acquire knowledge, his words of encouragement, musical talent, unwavering belief in Jesus Christ, and his incredible love for his family. And his warm hugs.

He is survived by his loving wife, Arlene, children Joel (Christy), Ethan, Erika (Patrick), and Kris (Tatiana), eight grandchildren, and sister Candace Jensen.

His spirit lives on within all of them.

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