Colleagues,
This notice has been published and flags remain lowered at Okanagan Colleges campuses in memory of George Heiss, Honorary Fellow of the College, who passed away on June 29.
Heiss and his wife Trudy are widely recognized as pioneers in the B.C. Wine Industry. They moved to the Okanagan in 1972 to establish Gray Monk Estate Winery and Vineyards, and were among those who helped push for a new era in B.C. wine production, with the advent of the Vintner Quality Alliance (VQA) program. The Heisses were named Honorary Fellows of the College in 2010.
“We are saddened to hear of the passing of George Heiss and extend our condolences to his family and all who are mourning his loss,” said Neil Fassina, President of Okanagan College. “The award of an Honorary Fellow, the College’s highest honour, is recognition of distinguished achievement or outstanding service, based on demonstrated mentorship, excellence, eminence and accomplishment. George’s legacy of excellence in the BC wine industry is a reflection of the seeds he planted long-ago to further establish and put the Okanagan region on the map as a world-class grape-growing and winemaking region.”
You can find Heiss’ obituary and space for condolences here.