Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip riding in a convertible through Vernon, B.C. circa 1959. They went on to stay at the Pennask Lake Lodge after this appearance in Vernon.

Image Credit: Gar Lunney/ Library and Archives Of Canada collectionscanada.gc.ca

Flags across the Thompson Okanagan are at half-mast as Canada marks the passing of Prince Phillip.  

Prince Phillip, the husband to Queen Elizabeth II, spent more than seven decades supporting his wife in a role that both defined and constricted his life. Buckingham Palace announced his death April 9. He was 99.

READ MORE: Philip, defined by role of husband to British queen, dies

The royal family has visited the Thompson Okanagan numerous times throughout the years.

In 1959, Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh toured all provinces in Canada including B.C. The latest visit from the royal family was when William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, visited Kelowna in 2016. 

READ MORE: 10 times the royal family visited the Okanagan and Kamloops

Flags have been lowered at Okanagan College campuses and other post-secondary institutions in B.C., according to the college. B.C. government buildings and Government of Canada buildings have also lowered their flags in recognition of Prince Phillip's death.

Upon the death of the Sovereign's spouse, the Heir to the Throne or the Heir of the Heir to the Throne, the Flag is flown at half-mast on all federal buildings and establishments in Canada and abroad, including the Peace Tower, from the time of notification of death until sunset on the day of funeral, according to the Government of Canada. Provincial offices will also have flags at half mast until the end of his funeral.

The flags at Okanagan College's Kelowna campus have been lowered to honour Prince Phillip.

(CARLI BERRY / iNFOnews.ca)

“His legacy will also live on through The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, which he founded. This prestigious and inspirational achievement program has made a direct and real difference to thousands of young people in our province, and will continue to develop leaders of tomorrow,” Premier John Horgan said in a statement issued April 9.

The Duke of Edinburgh visited British Columbia on 12 occasions, both on his own and alongside Queen Elizabeth II, according to the province.

He was at the Queen’s side on all seven of her tours to B.C. His solo visits were often to present The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, to support military regiments and charitable organizations, and to participate in Commonwealth events.

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