BC Tree Fruits artifacts showcasing 90-year history to be preserved in Kelowna

Rick Knodel is no doubt smiling from above as the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) board has supported a staff recommendation to transfer historic BC Tree Fruits artifacts to the Kelowna Museum.

Knodel, who represented rural Oliver on the RDOS board, passed away in January. He was a strong advocate for preserving the BC Tree Fruits collection, which showcases the organization’s 90-year history since its founding in 1936.

“This was Director Knodel’s passion,” said RDOS chief administrative officer Jim Zaffino. “He did, in fact, help save the artifacts.”

The Oliver and District Heritage Society (ODHS) has been collecting BC Tree Fruits artifacts for decades. A new agreement will see those items transferred to the Kelowna Museum for long-term preservation and public display.

Just two weeks ago, BC Tree Fruits held a special celebration in Oliver, following a widely reported bankruptcy that led to new ownership. In fall 2024, the co-operative announced it would cease operations and file for creditor protection—sending shockwaves through the Okanagan’s agricultural community.

Earlier this spring, Penticton’s Wildstone Construction Group partnered with Algoma Orchards and several local investors to purchase and reopen former BC Tree Fruits facilities in Oliver, Summerland, and Keremeos. It was also announced that Growers Supply, an agricultural supply store forced to close during the shutdown, would be revived.

A staff report noted that the artifact transfer supports the RDOS board’s commitment to regional heritage, economic development, and collaboration. The district has worked diligently to safeguard BC Tree Fruits materials since the co-operative’s dissolution in 2024.

“These artifacts are a significant part of our region’s agricultural heritage and have been the subject of previous board discussions,” the report stated, noting the board’s earlier approval of funds for a one-year storage facility in partnership with ODHS. “RDOS staff, in collaboration with the ODHS executive director, reviewed options for long-term preservation.”

The Kelowna Museum was identified as the most suitable home due to its existing BC Tree Fruits collection and its expertise in agricultural history.

Relocating the artifacts ensures professional preservation, cataloguing, and ongoing public access while maintaining their regional significance.

ODHS staff have also maintained a positive relationship with the new owners of the BC Tree Fruits brand, who support ongoing preservation efforts.

“This partnership will ensure a smooth transition and continued cooperation in cataloguing and interpreting the artifacts,” the report added. “This is a positive outcome that reflects the dedication of staff and partners to safeguarding regional heritage.”

The cost of one-year storage was covered through previously approved RDOS heritage funds. No further financial impact is anticipated now that the Kelowna Museum has assumed stewardship.

RDOS staff will continue working with ODHS, the Kelowna Museum, and the new BC Tree Fruits ownership team to communicate the successful transfer and the importance of preserving these artifacts. Public information will be shared through RDOS and partner channels.

Knodel — widely remembered as a gentle giant who deeply loved rural Oliver — passed away in early 2025 due to serious health complications. He served as the RDOS director for Area C (Rural Oliver) and chaired the planning and development committee.

A longtime volunteer with the Willowbrook Volunteer Fire Department, Knodel was honoured by the department in a heartfelt social media post.

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of one of our most beloved department members, Area C Director Rick Knodel,” the post read. “Rick always fought hard for what he believed in and took the time to ensure those around him, and the constituents he represented, were taken care of.”

Knodel was first elected as an RDOS director in 2018 and re-elected in 2022, after previously serving as an alternate director.

RDOS director Subrina Monteith said she was proud to have built a close friendship with him over the past six years.

“Rick had a heart of gold,” she said. “He had a rare ability to make difficult situations lighter. His humour and wisdom made being around him delightful. He cared deeply about the people he represented, his family, and his volunteer work in Willowbrook.”

Zaffino said news of Knodel’s passing was difficult for staff and elected officials to absorb.

“I feel terrible about what’s happened,” he said. “Rick was dedicated to ensuring his constituents lived in an affordable area and weren’t overtaxed. That was always his number one goal.”

— This story was originally published by the Penticton Herald