A Lethbridge doctor died while scuba diving in Kootenay Lake on Saturday.
The BC Coroners Service has confirmed that Shane Timothy Mortimer, 46, of Lethbridge, Alberta was one of a group of four persons engaged in recreational scuba diving in the area of the MV Anscomb shipwreck at Woodbury on the morning of May 18.
“Shortly before noon, Dr. Mortimer, an experienced scuba diver, was noted to be in trouble while underwater,” a press release issued Thursday afternoon by the coroners service stated. “His diving partners attempted rescue and resuscitation, which were then continued by first responders and emergency room staff at the hospital.”
Despite these efforts, Mortimer could not be revived. The BC Coroners Service and RCMP continue to investigate this death.
According to his obituary in the Lethbridge Herald, Mortimer grew up in Calgary. He graduated with a masters in endocrinology from the University of Calgary in 1992 and then attended the University of Alberta Medical School, graduating with distinction in general surgery in 1996.
In 2001, he and wife Natasha married and moved to Lloydminster where he began his surgical practice. After three years they moved to Lethbridge.
"Shane enjoyed spending quality time with his daughters," his obituary read. "He shared a passion for life including diving, photography and teaching. He will be missed by his family, friends, and those whose life he impacted as a dedicated and compassionate surgeon.
"It is for his generosity, love of family, belief in people and passion for medicine, diving and teaching that we deeply grieve for him."
Mortimer was predeceased by his wife. He is survived by his two daughters, parents, and other relatives. Vigil rites are scheduled for Sunday in Lethbridge with a funeral to follow Monday.
CORRECTION: An earlier version of this story erroneously stated that Mortimer was survived by his wife.