Congratulations to Bob Ewashen of Creston who is the BC Seniors’ Games Society’s recipient of the Sport BC Presidents’ Award.

The Presidents’ Awards are presented annually to volunteers from Sport BC member organizations who go above and beyond, who embody the spirit of volunteerism and whose dedication, energy and commitment contribute to the development of their sport or organization.

Bob had a rewarding career in public education where he began teaching in a one room country school in Alberta. He taught biology in high school, became a school counsellor as well as a consultant in family life education and curriculum development.

He was a School Board trustee in No. 86 Creston/Kaslo and No. 8 Kootenay Lake for 12 years and served one term as District Board Chair.

Bob loves playing Tennis and in 2000 he registered to participate in the BC Seniors Games in Kelowna. He then got involved with the BC Seniors Games Society and became the Director of Zone 7 – East Kootenay. He chaired the Nominating Committee and was a member of the Development Committee.

His leadership resulted in new members and he provided valuable input into the development of policies and procedures for the BCSGS.

For Bob, volunteering and being part of an organization whose goal is to enhance the well being, health and involvement of the 55+ population in B.C. was both rewarding and enjoyable.

He raised awareness amongst the board about working with colleagues who are deaf and there are still opportunities to improve. Bob dedicated 24 years to being the Zone 7 Director up until 2024, which is a significant accomplishment.

“It was a worthwhile and enjoyable retirement project,” he said.

Bob also volunteered for the Creston Doukhobor Society. He is well known for his meticulously handcrafted Doukhobor rugs that he makes on a traditional loom at his home in Creston.

The BCSGS appreciates and is grateful to Bob for his incredible volunteer contributions throughout the past 24 years. His leadership, steadfast approach and quiet determination made a positive difference in participants’ lives in the Kootenays and throughout B.C.

Bob has participated in the 55+ BC Games in Tennis, Cribbage and also played eight ball where he won a silver medal at the 2025 55+ BC Games in Nanaimo.

He enjoys the camaraderie of competition, as well as being socially and physically active, participating regularly at the Rec Centre gymnasium.

Bob says he has “no regrets” and he continues to be a role model and an inspiration to us all!

The 55+ BC Games will be held in Kamloops, September 8 to 12. There are 13 Zones participating this year from all regions of B.C. plus the Yukon. We expect approximately 100 participants from Zone 7 to attend the Games.

More information on the 55+ BC Games is available on their website or by emailing the Zone 7 Director Jean Terpsma at [email protected].

Lead image: Judy Joseph-Black, Chair Sport BC, Bob Ewashen, President’s Award Recipient and Dian Murphy, President BC Senior Games Society. Photo submitted

Zone 7 (East Kootenay)

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