A founding father of the BC wine industry passes away at age 74

A key figure in the BC wine industry passed away on Tuesday at the age of 74.

Harry McWatters, an award-winning vintner, a founder of several wineries and president of ENCORE vineyards, died "peacefully" in his sleep at his Summerland home, TIME Winery and Kitchen said in a Facebook post.

"It is with shock that we share our deep sadness and announce the passing of ENCORE Vineyards president & chief executive officer Harry McWatters," it read.

"Harry’s sudden passing comes as a surprise to all as he was only last week celebrating the success and anniversary of our downtown Penticton winery, TIME Winery & Kitchen."

McWatters has been regarded as the Godfather of the BC Wine Industry, among other titles, for his contributions to the province's wine sector.

"I've known him since day one when he started with the Okanagan Wine Festival. He's been around a long time," Howard Soon, Canada's longest serving winemaker and fellow BC Wine industry pioneer, said of McWatters.

"It's a longstanding contribution . . . he's one of the originals."

According to the ENCORE Vineyards website of which McWatters is the President and CEO, he is a longstanding veteran in the industry, known for his founding of Sumac Ridge Estate Winery in 1980 and later founding See Ya Later Ranch Estate winery in 1995.

In 2003, McWatters received the Order of British Columbia for his role in the development of the BC wine industry. He was also the founding chair of the BC Wine Information Society, BC Hospitality Foundation and several other BC wine-related events.

TIME requested that people respect the privacy of Harry's family as they digest his loss. Memorial details will be shared when available, they added.