For many, what's out front of the library will likely be more interesting than anything they may find inside. On the porch of the library near the entrance is a beautifully carved wood bench dedicated to the memory of Steve Tyee Retasket.
The sides of the bench are carved from sections of a tree trunk, with eagle's heads carved into their tops. Mortised into the sides are wide boards forming the seat and the back of the bench. Carved into the back is another eagle, this one with its wings spread wide. Above it is the dedication
In Memory of Steve Tyee Retasket.
Steve Retasket passed away on December 8, 2016 and is buried at Riverview Cemetery. A
Celebration of Life was held in his honour at the Assembly of God Church on December 14th. He was a member of the
Sylix People of the Okanogan and a resident of Oroville.
Steve Tyee Retasket
Steve Retasket was born on February 17, 1943 and entered heaven on December 8, 2016. He was born to Norman and Catherine Retasket in Lilloet, BC. One of 13 children, he was taught at an early age, the value of family. This stayed with him throughout his life.
He married his love, Ada, on April 2, 1966. Together with her children, Sharron and Dwayne, they added son Jason and daughter Stephanie to create their forever family. Throughout the years, they had others become special additions to their family including his sister Cathy, brother Mike, niece Marcy and Joe Peone, but had their doors open to all. Many family gatherings began and ended at the home of Steve and Ada.
Steve worked many years in and around Oroville, until his health forced him into retirement. The years at work helped create lasting friendships which he treasured right up to the end.
Through the generosity of another, Steve had a kidney and pancreas transplant in early 1999, and was able to continue loving his family and watching grandkids grow, graduate, marry and have great grandchildren. He and Ada enjoyed traveling to Oregon to watch Jason’s daughters, Briony and Mya. Family meant the world to Steve, he truly lived for his children and grandchildren.
From the Gazette-Tribune