INFORMATION RELEASE

The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) extends its sincere condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of former elected official, engineer, and community leader Tom Siddon. His passing on Sunday, June 28, 2026, is a significant loss for the South Okanagan and for Canada.

Tom Siddon dedicated much of his life to public service. In addition to serving two terms as Electoral Area “D” Director with the RDOS, he represented Richmond, BC as a Member of Parliament and held several prominent federal cabinet portfolios, including Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, and Minister of National Defence.

“Tom Siddon was a passionate advocate for the South Okanagan and worked tirelessly to represent the interests of this region,” said RDOS Board Chair Mark Pendergraft. “His commitment to public service, environmental stewardship, and community building leaves a lasting legacy. Tom will also be remembered as a devoted husband, father, and friend.”

Tom’s dedication to his community continued throughout his life. He was elected as a trustee with School District No. 67 in 2008 before serving two terms as Area “D” Director. During his tenure, Area “D” encompassed the communities that are now represented by Electoral Areas “D” and “I”, following the boundary division that took effect in 2018.

Prior to elected office, Tom was a professor of engineering at the University of British Columbia and an acoustical consultant throughout Canada and the US. Beyond elected office, he remained active as a consultant, lecturer, corporate board member, and founding chair of the Okanagan Water Stewardship Council, helping to shape important conversations around water and environmental sustainability in the region.

The RDOS Board of Directors recognizes the profound impact Tom Siddon had on the South Okanagan and extends its heartfelt sympathies to all those mourning his loss. His contributions to public service and community leadership will be remembered for years to come.

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Mark Pendergraft, Chair
Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen

Contact:

RDOS Communications
250-490-4148
Toll-free 1-877-610-3737