KITCHEN, Eric

Feb 12, 1946 – Jan 19, 2026

Eric passed away on January 19, 2026 at his home in Metchosin after a long and courageous battle with cancer and heart disease. Eric is survived by his loving daughter Leah Gronow, 7 of his 11 siblings and many nieces and nephews.

Eric was born (February 12, 1946) and raised on Salt Spring Island. Dad grew up on the family farm, learning to help with chores from a young age. Dad left home in his late teens, married Louise (his first wife) and began his career as a faller in the logging industry. Dad’s brother, Bert ‘broke’ him into the falling industry and dad loved working in the many logging camps on the West Coast, from Sooke to Rivers Inlet and was well respected for his expertise and skills. Dad had fond memories of working and living in Rivers Inlet, for Malloch and Moseley and on days off from logging, he enjoyed fishing on his boat, hiking and helping the community at large.

In the 1980s Eric and brother Bert bought the family homestead on Salt Spring Island and developed it into several lots and named the road after the family. Dad was proud of the work he and his brother put into creating the subdivision and he always held it as one of his most cherished accomplishments. Years later, Dad and his second wife, Candy built their own beautiful home in Cobble Hill, on five pastoral acres and he enjoyed time on the property when he was not working in camp.

Eric loved socializing and friends were plentiful throughout his life. Dad was always known for offering a helping hand to family and friends and was terrific at problem solving situations. Dad’s stamina was beyond compare and nothing was too hard to do, if it took strength and skill. One of his favourite sayings was, “Let’s get’er done,” and indeed, when Eric Kitchen was around, things got done!!! Some of dad’s other past times included sponsoring an adult soft ball team, helping a friend track a nuisance cougar in the snow, assist with any projects for family and friends and taking time to enjoy the company of others.

Dad loved the outdoors and his annual hunting trips on the Alaska Highway for moose. His retirement years were spent in Metchosin, where thanks to his cherished friends Danny, Carol and their family, he found friendship and peace.

“Like the trees, your roots run deep in our hearts”

Thank you to Dr. Nazar and Dr. Kinahan for their care and support during the last five years, while dad battled cancer and heart disease.

A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.