My Story

From the Streets to City Hall: 

Dedicated to Kelowna’s FutureMeet Chris Bocskei. You may know him from his 25 years as a professional local painter, his 11 years cultivating growth at the Rutland Elementary School garden, or his historic advocacy for public safety. Chris didn't just move to Kelowna; Kelowna is the community that helped him build a life, and he has spent the last 40 years giving back to it.

A Journey Built on Resilience & Family :

Growing up the youngest of three boys in Hamilton, Ontario, Chris faced hardships early. Leaving home at 15 and experiencing homelessness shaped his deep empathy and unique perspective on addiction and housing. Arriving in Kelowna just before his 17th birthday, Chris worked tirelessly—from the Canamara Beach Motel to local orchards—before graduating from KLO Secondary at 19.

In 1993, Chris moved to Rutland, the neighbourhood he proudly calls home. It is here that he and his wife raised their family, sharing the joy of raising their three boys: Joshua, Jacob, and Joshua. Chris knows firsthand what it means to work hard, build a life from scratch, and raise a family in this community.

A Lifetime of Community First:

Chris’s true passion has always been people and the environment. For decades, he has poured his heart into supporting our youth, nature, and vulnerable citizens through:

• Action on Mill Creek: Frequently featured in local news, Chris has been leading volunteer clean-ups along Mill Creek. His relentless environmental advocacy has successfully pressured city officials and property owners to remove tons of hazardous debris, protecting local ecosystems and microplastics from entering our lake.
• Youth Sports & Mentorship: Coaching local youth soccer for years, volunteering with the 9th Kelowna Raymer Elementary Beavers in 1991, and coaching and managing the Pusher Mitchell Panthers integration softball team.
• Supporting the Vulnerable: Continuing his hands-on dedication to the community by actively volunteering with the Salvation Army to support those in need.
• Special Needs Advocacy: Dedicating years to supporting children and youth with special needs, ensuring everyone in our community has a voice and a place to belong.
• National Safety Leadership: Speaking at conferences across Canada on the impacts of brain injuries and starring in bicycle helmet safety commercials with Mike Roberts.

A Proven Fighter for Kelowna:

When Chris believes in a cause, he stands up for it. He led one of the most successful grassroots protests in British Columbia’s history—garnering the largest petition in Kelowna’s history—to demand accountability, common sense, and public safety regarding complex care housing.

Chris continues to fight passionately for vibrant green spaces, safe neighbourhoods, and healthy environments where families can thrive.

"Kelowna welcomed me when I needed a community most, and Rutland is where my wife and I chose to raise our three boys. Whether it's picking up trash by hand to save Mill Creek or standing up for public safety on the curb, I don't just talk about problems—I tackle them. Now, I want to bring that same independent, resilient, and family-first spirit to City Council. I’m Chris Bocskei, and I’m ready to work for you."