It is with great sadness that we say good-bye to our dad, husband, big brother, son, and dear friend. Jeff Campbell lived life large. He died on Saturday June 26, 2010, doing what he loved to do – boating on the Quesnel River. We will miss him enormously.
Jeff was born in Chilliwack, BC on September 26, 1957. He was eight months old when he moved to Quesnel with his mom and dad, Joyce and Ted Campbell. Quesnel was truly his home. Living here most of his life, he worked in various capacities as a welder, back hoe operator, gym owner, and wilderness guide. His passions included family, friends, animals, search and rescue, his lodge on the Quesnel River, and helping others. In spite of his love for fitness, he had a never-ending love for sweets, especially his mom’s and his wife’s home-baking.
Just beneath the surface of his muscle, huge presence, and booming voice was a heart of gold. The scope of his generosity was as large as he was. We could always count on him.
Jeff did nothing half-way. “If you are going to do something, do it right” were among his favorite words of wisdom.
There are many stories of his compassion, kindness, and endless energy for helping others and for rescuing animals. There have been several fortunate individuals, including strangers in distress, who were welcomed into his heart and into his home until they were ready to resume their own journeys. Friends and neighbours knew to call on him when they found an injured bird or animal. He would then nurture them to health, and set them free, much like he did with his friends and family.
He was a “big brother” and confidante to many, counselling friends and family through difficult times, and always leaving us with the message that we could fly on our own. More words that echo in our memories are “you can be anything you want to be, you can do anything you want to do, there is nothing you can’t do.” He left us with the ability to believe in ourselves, and to reach for our potentials.
Jeff has left behind three beautiful children to carry on his legacy, along with his four younger siblings, his wife, his parents, and his many friends.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will take place on Saturday July 3, 2010 at 1:00 pm at the indoor riding arena at Alex Fraser Park. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jeff’s memory at the Royal Bank, Quesnel Branch.