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Dr. Keith Marling (Doc)

August 31, 1932 ~ December 13, 2012


The Marling family, with extreme sadness, announces the passing of Dr. Keith Marling, affectionately known as Doc.


Keith was born in Willowdale, Ontario August 31, 1932. He passed away peacefully at home on December 13, 2012 with his devoted wife and best friend Anne, by his side.

Doc was passionate about his career as a veterinarian, fishing, farming, gardening and travelling. He attained his lifelong dream of being a veterinarian by getting summer jobs on the west coast to pay his way through the Ontario Veterinary College back east in Guelph. “Animals First” was always his motto. He loved his profession so much he was often quoted as saying, “I have never worked a day in my life.”

By invitation from Charlie Sutcliffe and the Dairy Association, Dr. Marling moved with his family to the Creston Valley in May of 1958. Doc began his career working side by side with Charlie to care for and establish a herd management program. Doc first set up his veterinary clinic in the basement of his 6th Avenue home. In 1963 he built the Kootenay Animal Clinic on Canyon Street where he continued his practice until 2009, and retired as the longest practicing veterinarian in British Columbia. During that time he ooprovided services from Invermere to Grand Forks, Kaslo to Nelson, and was the first to have veterinary anaesthetic and x-ray machines in the Kootenays. Using this equipment, Keith and Anne were thankful for the end of long nights waiting for animals to wake up from surgery.

Dr. Marling dedicated time to many community committees and the town council. He was instrumental in establishing the first volunteer fire hall as well. He was always supportive of his town and attended community events until his last days.

Keith was a man of few words but they held great impact and wisdom, usually followed by a quote of life from a book, famous author or scripture. His knowledge was far beyond, and not limited to veterinary work. The doors to his home and practice were always open to people and animals, great and small.


He now joins departed family, son Joe, friends and animals he so greatly cared for.

Keith leaves behind the love of his life Anne; brother Gary (Bev); children: Daryl (Sharon), Linda and Kyle (Lynn); grandchildren: Bryan, Amanda, Nick, Laura and Adam; and great grandson Jaxon. Nieces and nephews include: Joe, Cam, Brett, Jade, Seth, Rob, Gord and Jennifer. Son and daughters by choice: David, Lana and Dana.

We are all better people for having Doc in our lives. We will always remember you and forever miss you, beloved father, husband and friend.

May you watch over us all and guide us through life, until we can join you on your ranch in paradise and eternal ishing trips.


We Love you Pa, our Dear Doc!