Zachariah "Zach" van der Lee

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Zachariah (Zach) William van der Lee on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the age of 46.

Zach will be lovingly remembered by his sons, Nolan and Costin; his girlfriend, Jamie; his parents, Bill and Lorna; his brother, Ben (Vera); his sister, Rebecca (Andrew); his nephew, Frederick; his nieces, Theodora and Robin; and many friends and extended family.

Zach was a mechanical engineer who spent his career working with Raven Energy, GLJ Petroleum Consultants and Enerplus, specializing in reserves evaluation. He had a natural curiosity about how things worked and loved tinkering with anything mechanical.

Some of Zach's favourite times were spent outdoors and with family. He loved waterskiing on the glassy waters of Koocanusa, salmon fishing at Mabel Lake, spending time with his boys at the cabin in Wardner, and getting together with family at the farm at Pine Lake. Whether it was time on the boat, fishing, golfing, or simply hanging out with his boys, Zach was happiest doing the things he loved with the people who mattered most to him.

Zach was a hands-on kind of person who could fix just about anything and seemed to know a little (or a lot) about everything, earning him the endearing nickname Zachapedia. He was a loving father who was incredibly proud of his boys, and a kind, genuine friend who could always be counted on to lend a hand. Zach deeply valued the friendships he made throughout his life. His university friends and the GLJ "Wolf Pack" were a cornerstone of who he was.

The family would like to extend their deepest thanks and gratitude to the doctors, nurses, and entire care team at the Arthur Child Comprehensive Cancer Centre. The care and compassion they showed Zach, and the kindness and support they extended to his family throughout his illness, meant more than words can express. We will always be grateful for the incredible people who cared for Zach and helped us through such a difficult time.

Zach will be greatly missed by his family, friends, and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. The memories made, the friendships built, and the time spent together will be treasured always.

Long may you run, long may you run

Although these changes have come

With your chrome heart shining in the sun

Long may you run

— Neil Young