Kade Praine Obituary, Death – The community of Courtenay is reeling from the tragic loss of 17-year-old Kade Praine, a beloved young man whose sudden passing has left family, friends, and colleagues devastated. Kade, an HVAC apprentice working in Nanaimo, died in a tragic workplace accident just one week before his 18th birthday, a milestone he was eagerly anticipating. His death has sent shockwaves through both Courtenay and the larger Vancouver Island community, leaving many to mourn a life lost far too soon.
The Praine family, overwhelmed with grief, expressed their deep sorrow in a public statement: “Our family is so broken, there are no words. We are grateful to all of you, our community, who are helping to hold us up as we navigate this unbearable, devastating loss.” Their heartbreak is shared by many, as Kade’s passing marks an irreplaceable loss for those who knew and loved him.
Though the details surrounding the tragic accident have not been fully disclosed, Kade’s death occurred on a Nanaimo construction site where he was working as part of his apprenticeship in HVAC. The incident took place on Wednesday afternoon, a day that became doubly tragic with the loss of another worker at a separate site on Bear Mountain. Both incidents have shaken the construction and trades community on Vancouver Island, with leaders calling for reflection and support for the families of the workers involved.
Rory Kulmala, CEO of the Vancouver Island Construction Association, described it as a “dark day” for the industry. “This day was tough for the families of the workers who lost their lives, the teams that worked alongside them, and the employers who hired the workers,” Kulmala stated. The B.C. Coroners Service has confirmed Kade’s passing, and an investigation into the circumstances is ongoing.
In his young life, Kade had already made a lasting impression on those around him. As an apprentice in the HVAC field, he was known for his dedication, enthusiasm, and a strong work ethic. His colleagues admired his determination to learn and grow within the trade, and he was seen as a rising star in the industry. Kade’s potential seemed limitless, which makes his sudden passing all the more heartbreaking.
Beyond his professional life, Kade was a cherished member of the Courtenay community. His warm personality, infectious energy, and positive attitude made him a joy to be around. Family and friends describe him as someone who always had a smile on his face, a young man who could light up any room with his laughter and kindness. He was deeply loved by his family, who are now left to cope with an unimaginable loss.
“Kade was the kind of person who brought people together,” a close friend shared. “He had this way of making everyone feel special, whether it was cracking a joke, offering a hand when someone needed help, or just being there to listen. He was someone we all looked up to, and we’re going to miss him so much.”
Kade’s love for life extended to his passion for the outdoors. Whether hiking through the forests of British Columbia, fishing by the riverside, or spending time with friends on a weekend adventure, Kade embraced the beauty of nature and inspired others to do the same. He had a spirit for exploration, always eager to take on new challenges and see the world around him.
His death leaves a profound void in the lives of those who knew him, and the impact of his absence will be felt for a long time. However, his memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the community he left behind. As they mourn, they also celebrate the joy he brought to their lives, the laughter he shared, and the love he gave so freely.
The Courtenay and Nanaimo communities are united in their grief, coming together to support the Praine family in this difficult time. Vigils and gatherings are being planned to honor Kade’s life, offering a chance for those who knew him to share stories, find comfort in each other’s memories, and ensure that Kade is never forgotten.
As the Praine family and the greater community continue to grapple with this devastating loss, Kade’s legacy will remain—a reminder of a young man whose kindness, warmth, and love for life touched the hearts of everyone he met. Though he is gone far too soon, his memory will endure, cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
