Chilliwack shelter, outreach organization mourns the passing of its co-founder

CHILLIWACK – A Chilliwack-based organization that provides housing, shelter and recovery programs to local residents is mourning the passing of its co-founder following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Ruth and Naomi’s says Ted Stoker, who built a mission of generosity and dignity together with his wife, Ann, has sadly died.

An obituary posted on the Wombold Funeral Homes website states that Stoker, a native of Gassettannigvan, Netherlands, passed on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at the age of 76. His parents, Evert and Ebelina Stoker, immigrated to Canada in 1953. He was the fifth of seven children. He grew up in Ontario, married Ann Bruinsma, and together they had four children. He worked in the auto body industry for a number of years. In 1992, Ted and Ann purchased Vedder Hardware Store and Small Appliance Repair Shop. They sold the hardware store in 1997 and continued operating the small appliance shop until 2005.

During that time in 1997, Ted Stoker felt the call to go into ministry and began volunteering at the Bridge of Chilliwack. In spring 2002, Ted and Ann started, and were the founders and directors, of Ruth and Naomi’s.

“Together with his wife, Ann, Ted helped build the foundation of a mission that continues to bring care, dignity, and hope to our community,” Ruth and Naomi’s wrote. “We are deeply grateful for his faith, compassion, and all he gave to help others. As we mourn his loss, we take comfort in knowing that Ted was at peace with the end of his life and passed peacefully.”

Ruth and Naomi’s expressed thanks to Ted for leaving a timeless legacy.

“Thank you, Ted. Your legacy lives on in the lives touched through Ruth & Naomi’s. You will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered,” RAN wrote. “Please join us in praying for Ann, our fellow co-founder, and all who loved Ted. May they feel God’s comfort and the love of this community as they grieve.”