Discover the stories of some of the people and families who helped shape the West Kelowna community through a self-guided tour of the Westbank Cemetery.
Established in 1926, the Westbank Cemetery became a resting place for generations of local farming families, orchardists, veterans and community builders. The self-guided tour introduces visitors to six families whose lives and contributions are connected to the area’s agricultural, business and community history.
Learn about the people behind some of the community’s early development, including the Paynter family’s contributions to irrigation and agriculture, the Gorman family’s connection to farming and forestry, and David and Dorothy Gellatly’s contributions to agriculture, communications and community life.
The tour, developed by the Westbank Museum and the City of West Kelowna, can be enjoyed at your own pace during regular cemetery hours. Download the self-guided cemetery brochure before your visit and follow the map and numbered stops throughout the cemetery.
Explore More of the Community’s History
The stories found at the Westbank Cemetery are one part of the broader history of this place. West Kelowna’s story also includes the enduring presence, culture and contributions of Westbank First Nation and the syilx people.
To learn more about Westbank First Nation history, culture and heritage, visit Sncəwips, where visitors can explore history and heritage from a syilx perspective.
To continue exploring the history of early settlers, local families and community development in the West Kelowna area, visit the Westbank Museum, which preserves and shares stories from the area’s past.
Cemetery Information & Etiquette
Westbank Cemetery is an active cemetery and a place of remembrance. Please help keep it a peaceful and respectful place for families, loved ones and visitors.
- Respect services and gatherings. If an interment or memorial service is taking place during your visit, please give the family and other attendees privacy and space. Consider pausing your tour or returning at another time.
- Keep voices low and be mindful of other visitors who may be visiting a loved one’s gravesite.
- Do not disturb graves, memorials or personal items. Please leave flowers and other tributes in place.
- Take photos thoughtfully. Avoid photographing people attending a service or gathering without their permission.
- Keep pets under control and be considerate of other visitors and the peaceful nature of the cemetery.
- Follow posted signs and cemetery regulations during your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Westbank Cemetery located?
Westbank Cemetery is located at 3200 Elliott Rd, West Kelowna, BC V4T 1P2.
Can I do the self-guided tour any time the cemetery is open?
Yes. The self-guided tour can be enjoyed at your own pace during regular cemetery visiting hours, from dawn to dusk.
What if an interment or memorial service is taking place when I arrive?
Please be respectful and give the family and attendees privacy. If a service is underway, pause your tour and allow the gathering to take place without interruption. You may wish to return later to complete the tour.
Is there a fee for the self-guided tour?
No. The self-guided tour is available for visitors to explore at their own pace. Download the brochure before your visit to follow the tour stops and map.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs should be kept on leash and visitors should be mindful of families and others visiting the cemetery. Please clean up after your pet and respect any posted requirements.
How can I learn more about the people featured on the tour?
The self-guided tour brochure provides stories about the families featured on the tour. For more information about the historic families and their stories, contact the Westbank Museum.