Robert Donald Vallaster passed away on December 31, 2013 at Yorkton, SK. at the age of 78 years. Robert was born in Vernon, BC on March 5, 1935 and joined the Armed forces at the age of 17. He served his country for 25 years before retiring from his last posting as a Warrant Officer at CFS White Spruce, at Orcadia, SK. After retirement, he and Vange opened up the Good Earth's Shop in Yorkton, which they owned and he ran, for 32 years. Robert loved his work. He also loved pottery and, in the early years, displayed and sold many of his elegant creations in the shop. Robert also enjoyed the fellowship of the Yorkton Lions Club for 35 years. In his leisure time, Robert enjoyed racquet ball, golf, sneaking off for the occasional ice cream in the summer, playing bridge, gardening, eating chocolate covered cherries at Christmas time, and reading. Robert was always well informed on current events and enjoyed intelligent, good natured debate with family and friends. He was a hardworking and generous man who loved his wife, family and friends dearly. One of his greatest joys was spending time with family and friends. His door was always open to whoever wanted to come and visit. When distance didn't allow for visits in person, Robert made up for it with many lengthy weekly phone calls. He was surrounded and loved by many family members, near and far, and many special friends. These people supported him with many acts of kindness and love, particularly in the final years of his life. He will be lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege to know him as a kind and decent man who always had a smile. He is survived by his siblings: Don Vallaster (Sandy), Adelle Vallaster, Gayle Vallaster; wife Vange Vallaster; his children: Kris Vallaster, Wendy Arauz (Jvier), Lis Vallaster (Johan), Tracey Mills (Christopher), Cherise Arnesen (Quentin) and Alison Arnesen; in addition to numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Ferdinand and Evelyn Vallaster and his sister Diana Vallaster. Friends gathered with family to celebrate his life on Friday afternoon, January 10, 2014 at St. Andrew's United Church in Yorkton. Rev. Jen Dresser officiated. Organist, Carla Laycock led members of the Church Choir and the congregation in the singing of the hymns "On Eagles Wings", "I the Lord of Sea & Sky" and "Grateful". Brother-in-law, Glynn Currie gave the eulogy. The urn bearer was Lis Vallaster. The interment will take place at Sun Peaks BC later this year. Memorials were to the Health Foundation. Condolences may be left at baileysfuneralhome.com.
