Yoben Beck Fox

Fox, Yoben Beck: 26 March 1980 - 17 October 2025 It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of a brother, a friend to many, and a uniquely gifted artist. Yoben was taken far too soon, and yet, his passing was a reprieve from his life of pain. He left us after a nearly two-decade-long struggle with drug addiction and homelessness - a battle that claimed much of his earthly life. It may have claimed his body, but it never managed to dim the ferocious brilliance of his spirit or halt the tireless movement of his creative hand. He saw the world not merely as it was, but as a vivid, untamed masterpiece waiting to be revealed. His work was not just art; it was a window. It was a generous offering that allowed others a fleeting, transformative glimpse into the extraordinary way he experienced reality. Yoben mourned the death of his mother Jeannie Fox earlier this year in April. She was a constant presence and source of strength for him throughout his life. He is survived by his father, Mikel Karschti; his three brothers, Yanko Fox, Jacob Fox, and Jared Fox; and a multitude of nieces and nephews. Beyond these biological bonds, he leaves behind a much wider circle of individuals whose spirits he profoundly touched. He possessed an astounding ability to make people think deeper than they were usually comfortable with, and his gift for understanding the heart of people's struggles bordered on the prophetic. To know him was to begin the vital, sometimes uncomfortable process of self-inspection, as no one in his presence was able to remain untouched by his searing honesty and unique perspective. His insights, often offered with fierce compassion, compelled everyone around him to live a more examined life. While the disease of addiction sought to define him, it was his art and honesty that will live on. We would like to give a special thank you to all the amazing staff of the 3MU (3 Medical Unit) of Kelowna General Hospital. Their adoption of Yoben as resident brother and their obvious care they have extended to him is truly exceptional. And an extra special thank you to Kathleen Elliman. You were with him from the beginning and have cared for him like your own son. I am amazed by the ministry of love you have served Yoben over the years the extent to which I'm sure no-one will ever know. Thank you to everyone in his last days for finding his humanity. Rest in peace, Yoben. You can put down the tomahawk now. We will be holding an open memorial service at 12pm on Wednesday, November 19 at the West Kelowna Cemetery. We invite any who wish to celebrate his life to join us.