September 22, 1932 – September 6, 2024
It is with profound sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Bernard Julius Rempel on September 6, 2024, at the age of 91. Bernie was cherished by everyone who knew him for his warm smile, generosity, kindness, patience, his quick wit and sense of humor.
Born on September 22, 1932, in a clapboard three-room farmhouse near Swalwell, AB, Bernie was the youngest of twelve children of Nicolai and Tina Rempel.
“As the last of the twelve, he enjoyed babyhood longer than any of his siblings; and that perhaps accounted for his genial spirit and nipping sense of humor.” – Teodor Rempel, Bernie’s older brother.
Bernie’s passion for preserving family history leaves behind an enduring legacy. His dedication to archiving family photos, genealogies, and records have documented his family’s rich heritage for future generations.
His career as a Computer Technician spanned 40 years across Toronto, Vancouver, Kitchener, Edmonton, and Kelowna. After retiring in 1992, Bernie launched his own company in Kelowna, BC. Outside of his work in technology, Bernie found great joy in gardening and woodworking. He spent countless hours in his garage crafting doll cribs for his great-granddaughters, tables, benches, and shelves and anything he could make with wood. His philosophy was to repair and maintain what you own, rather than replacing it.
Family was always Bernie’s greatest priority and joy. He treasured years of Sunday dinners, family outings (his favourite being Toast), and time spent with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A neighbor once remarked, “Bernie is so lucky—he has more visitors than anyone else on the street!”
Bernie was predeceased by his cherished wife of 65 years, Theresa. He is lovingly remembered by his children Rhonda (Rob), Robyn (Kevan), and Don (Heather); his grandchildren Melissa (Scott), Kelsey (Ryan), Katherine, Aidan (James); his great-grandchildren Isabelle, Myah, Owen, and Ryatt. He is survived by his brother Ted (Doris), and will be dearly missed by a large extended family of nieces, nephews, friends, and neighbors.
The family kindly asks that, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers.
Arrangements entrusted to Connelly-McKinley St. Albert Funeral Home.
To send condolences, please visit www.connelly-mckinley.com.
Connelly-McKinley Funeral Home
St. Albert Chapel
(780) 458-2222
