By Times Chronicle Staff
A memorial display at the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) office in Penticton was recently created paying tribute to Rick Knodel, former Electoral Area “C” director who died unexpectantly on Jan. 7, 2025.
Knodel’s photograph, biography, and cane will be on display in the RDOS boardroom through the end of the 2022-2026 term, the RDOS said. Knodel served as an RDOS director from October 20, 2018, until his death.
“Rick was a proud and dedicated father and husband,” said Mark Pendergraft, RDOS chair. “He was known for his down-to-earth personality and tireless advocacy on behalf of residents, business owners, and agricultural producers.”
Knodel previously served one term as an alternate director and was an active member of the Willowbrook Volunteer Fire Department. Before entering local government, he worked for many years as a boilermaker. Knodel grew up in the Oliver area and was an avid motorcycle enthusiast.
With the passing of Rick Knodel, Irwin Chahal becomes Electoral Area “C” director as per section 201(5) of the Local Government Act. Chahal previously served as the alternate director for Area “C”.
During the Thursday, February 20, 2025, meeting of the RDOS Board of Directors, the following external agency and committee appointments were supported.
Okanagan Basin Water Board: Director Subrina Monteith was appointed as a representative with Director Mark Pendergraft appointed as an alternate.
Southern Interior Municipal Employers Association: Director Spencer Coyne was appointed as a representative.
Planning and Development Committee: Director Jason Wiebe was appointed as chair with Director Adrienne Fedrigo appointed as vice-chair for the remainder of 2025.
Director Knodel served on the Okanagan Basin Water Board and Southern Interior Municipal Employers Association and was chair of the RDOS Planning and Development Committee.
