Celebrating Knodel’s Impact: Showcasing His Contributions to the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

A new display at the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen honors Rick Knodel, the former director of Electoral Area C. Knodel served the region from October 20, 2018, until his passing on January 7.

Mark Pendergraft, the chair of the regional district, shared fond memories of Knodel: “Rick was a proud father and husband. He had a down-to-earth personality and worked hard for residents, local businesses, and farmers.”

Electoral Area C includes the rural community of Oliver. Before his election, Knodel was an alternate director and actively volunteered with the Willowbrook Fire Department. He also had a background as a boilermaker and was passionate about motorcycles.

The display features Knodel’s photograph, biography, and a cane, and will be featured in the boardroom until the current term concludes in 2026.

After Knodel’s death, Irwin Chahal stepped in as the new director for Electoral Area C. He had previously been serving as the alternate director.

Knodel was also involved in various boards, including the Okanagan Basin Water Board and the Southern Interior Municipal Employers Association. He chaired the Planning and Development Committee for the regional district.

Following his passing, the regional district made new appointments. Subrina Monteith will represent the region on the Okanagan Basin Water Board, with Pendergraft as the alternate. Spencer Coyne will represent the Southern Interior Municipal Employers Association, and Jason Wiebe has been appointed as chair of the Planning and Development Committee, with Adrienne Fedrigo as vice-chair through 2025.