Members of the Penticton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of longtime bar manager Jason Malott.

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Members of the Penticton branch of the Royal Canadian Legion are mourning the sudden and unexpected death of longtime bar manager Jason Malott.

Valerie Folk, a volunteer bartender who worked alongside Malott for nearly six years, said many Legion members are still in shock after learning of his passing on Sunday morning. He was 72, and it’s believed he suffered a heart attack, according to patrons who were at the Legion early Monday afternoon, Aug. 18.

Malott began working at the former Martin Street Legion location over 15 years ago and quickly became a beloved figure in the community. Known for his charisma and love of entertainment, he frequently sang karaoke, danced, and brought joy to members.

“He was a character,” said Valerie. “He loved to sing and dance and was always putting on a show. A lot of our members are very sad. Jason was just a very nice person.”

Dozens of people shared heartfelt comments on the Penticton Legion’s Facebook page following the announcement of his passing.

“He was a real people person,” said Valerie. “It doesn’t surprise me at all that so many took the time to say kind things about him.”

Elaine Potter, the branch president, said the news was heartbreaking.

“I found out not long after they discovered him. It was devastating and such a shock,” said Potter. “He was the last person I expected to go so suddenly. I still remember his 65th birthday—he ended up in the hospital after falling and breaking his hip. We teased him, and he just laughed. He truly enjoyed life.”

She added, “It’s clear how much he meant to people based on the overwhelming response to his passing. We all loved him.”

A celebration of life will be held at the Legion once Malott’s family has had time to grieve and make arrangements. No date has been confirmed, but Potter said the event will be well attended.

“We’ll definitely give him a proper send-off,” she said. “It will be standing room only. We’re already scrambling to fill his little shoes.”

Potter also extended her sympathy to Malott’s longtime partner, Bryce (Bey), noting they shared a special relationship admired by many Legion patrons.

Herb Dixon, a Legion member and local stand-up comic, said he’s still processing the loss.

“I was talking to Jason on Saturday, right in this spot. Then I found out Sunday he was gone,” said Dixon. “It was such a shock. One day he’s here, laughing and joking, and the next day he’s gone.”

Dixon recalled first meeting Malott during a lip-sync contest at the Copper Mug.

“He was in a blue dress and five-inch heels, lip-syncing his heart out. He made quite the impression. He was a bundle of energy, proud and edgy, but always kind and funny. He talked to everyone and made the Legion feel like home.”

He added, “As a gay man, Jason was open, proud, and full of life. He brought a spark to every room. I’ll miss him dearly.”

Dixon said he wouldn’t miss the celebration of life for anything.

“He was a special guy,” he said. “It’s really too bad he’s gone.”

Longtime friend Todd Hamelin said he was stunned by the news.

“I was helping a friend when I heard. I had just seen Jason on Saturday—he was smiling, as always,” said Hamelin. “He looked just like my oldest brother. I showed him a picture once and we both laughed. That’s how we became friends.”

He added, “Jason made everyone laugh. He’ll be sorely missed.”

Gary Anton, who was a Legion member when Malott joined in 2009, praised his positive attitude.

“He was always bubbly and friendly—just super guy. People were drawn to him,” said Anton. “He was our Jason from the Legion. Everyone accepted him, and he was a big part of this place.”

He added, “It’ll be strange not seeing him behind the bar. He was like a fixture here. The celebration of life will be a special day. This place will be packed.”

A touching tribute was posted to the Penticton Legion Facebook page:

“It is with deepest sadness that we share the passing of our beloved bar manager and cherished friend Jason,” it read in part.

“Jason was more than just the friendly face behind the bar—he was the heart of our Legion. His laughter, kindness, and dedication brought warmth and joy to everyone who walked through our doors.

He created not only a welcoming place for members and guests, but also countless memories that will live on in all of us.

As we grieve this tremendous loss, we remember Jason with love and gratitude for the friendship he fostered, the community he built, and the light he brought into our lives.

Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him. Details about the upcoming memorial or celebration of Jason’s life will be shared as soon as they are available. Rest easy Jason, you will forever remain in our hearts and you have an entire community behind you.”

Nearly 200 people have since commented, sharing their memories and appreciation for the man who meant so much to so many.

— This article was originally published by the Penticton Herald

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