To the OC Community,
Flags have been lowered at the Penticton campus and this notice is shared in memory of OC student Earl (Ted) Vince, who passed away on Feb. 23, 2022.
After losing both his legs in a workplace accident at the age of 20, Ted went on to become a highly decorated athlete on the international stage. He played wheelchair basketball and excelled at wheelchair racing, winning many awards and medals. Ted won the 1988 London Marathon men's wheelchair race, defeating the defending champion to set a new course record. He also competed in the 1984 and 1988 Summer Paralympics, winning two bronze medals the latter year in the 400 metres and the marathon.
Ted attended NAIT and enjoyed a career as a Journeyperson Mechanic.
He is remembered by his loved ones as “hard working, independent, strong willed, loving and kind” and that “above all, he loved his family beyond measure.”
“Our sympathies go out to Ted’s family during this difficult time,” said Okanagan College James Coble, Director of Student Services and Interim Regional Dean South Okanagan-Similkameen. "We were saddened to hear of his passing, and we recognize that this loss will be felt by his fellow students and instructors at the Penticton campus. To our campus community, if you need emotional support, please do not hesitate to reach out and access the supports available to you through OC.”
Students can visit the Counselling Services page to connect with a Counsellor. Employees can access support through the College’s Employee and Family Assistance program (EFAP).
You can follow this link to read Ted’s obituary and leave condolences. His family is planning a Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.