July 12, 1938 - December 22, 2023
In loving memory ~
Sidney James Lawrence Warren, affectionately known as Sid, peacefully entered into the arms of his Lord and Savior on December 22, 2023, just 8 days before his 62nd wedding anniversary to his beloved wife, Ruth. Born prematurely on July 12, 1938, in Sexsmith, Alberta to James Leland Warren and Gladys (Barker) Warren. He was the youngest of 4.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Ruth (nee Upshall and her remaining family whom Sid loved with his whole heart), sister Jean Balisky, daughters Tannis (Michael) Lemke, and Tracy (Michel) Bazinet, grandchildren Brock and great-grandson Brady, Madison Lemke, Becky (Bailey Cook) and great-grandsons Barrett and Brayden, Brenna (John Jantzen), and Tobin Lemke. Sid was predeceased by his parents, Lee and Gladys, brother, Walter and sister, Mary and great granddaughter Brooklynn Faith Cook.
Sid's life journey was marked by his unwavering commitment to serving others. He served as Alberta Director of Youth for Christ in Edmonton and Red Deer and at Frontier Lodge Camp near Nordegg where he helped youth in crisis and drove the school bus for the children from the local reservation. In Kelowna, BC, he worked in real estate for nearly two decades, while contributing to the community as a school trustee for SD23. Sid and Ruth were one of a handful of families who had a vision for a church on the west side of Okanagan Lake. That vision led to the start of Lakeview Heights Baptist Church in West Kelowna in 1974, eventually serving as Assistant Pastor in 1993. He led the music at Lakeview Baptist for years. Sid and Ruth practiced hospitality by hosting Sunday meals for many while living in Kelowna. He taught countless youth to waterski over the years with such patience and enthusiasm. His love and care of youth was evident throughout his life. He and Ruth cultivated a vibrant group of friends who became like family to their children.
Sid and Ruth's journey led them to Caronport, Saskatchewan, to serve at Briercrest Schools, and then back to Kelowna at Okanagan Bible College. They later moved to Langley to be closer to their children. Sid served at Trinity Western University, BC Christian News, Shannon Oaks as chaplain and assistant manager, and John Davies Manor as chaplain and manager before retiring to Duncan, BC, on Vancouver Island.
In Duncan, Sid continued to make a positive impact, serving as the president of the local Prostate Cancer support group and regularly attending New Life Community Baptist Church where he was a part of the men's bag lunch Bible study and served as a greeter. You would find Sid in the bleachers or in the audience of his grandchildren's games and plays. He loved each one and was so proud to be their grandpa. He loved people and his warm hugs and kindness endeared him to all. Sid looked forward to afternoons of connection having coffee with dear friends at The Fishbowl Cafe or Tim Hortons. Sid was present when he was with you.
A cardiac event on May 25th led Sid to Cowichan District Hospital and eventually Cairnsmore Place, where he received loving care from the amazing staff.
Viewing will take place on December 29, 2023, at 11 am at Sands Funeral Chapel, 187 Trunk Rd, Duncan, followed by a graveside service at Mountainview Cemetery, 6474 Somenos Rd, Duncan, BC. An informal 'coffee time' will be held after at New Life Community Baptist Church, 1839 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan, BC.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Youth For Christ, www.yfc.ca/victoria or GAIN Global Aid Network www.globalaid.net, two of the many organizations dear to his heart.
Special thanks to Dr. Nadine Robertson for her care over the past 10 years, the staff at Cowichan District Hospital, Victoria Cardiac Unit, and Cairnsmore Place. To those who visited, your presence brought comfort and joy to Sid. He will be remembered with gratitude and love, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, kindness, and unwavering love for Jesus, family, and friends.
Service Details
11:00 PM