Obituaries

SCHMIDT, Bernard Paul

It is with sad hearts that we announce the passing of Bernard Paul Schmidt, who has gone to be with his Lord and Savior and has reunited with his parents and brother in heaven. He lived a full and wonderful life. Born in Vernon on November 29, 1932, he proudly served in the Air Force from 1953 to 1959, flying missions for the United Nations. After his military service, he returned home to help his parents run their grocery store, “The Top Hat”, located near what is now the Canadian Tire gas station. Later, he purchased an apartment building on Bertram Street and built another alongside it. He had many friends and fun times there and met his beautiful wife, Beverley!

Bernie and Bev moved a small house from downtown Kelowna to their property in Southeast Kelowna. The family lived there while they built their dream home with the help of countless family and friends. They established their lives there, raising two daughters, Brenda and Pam. They grew cherries for the packing house, grapes for Calona Wines, and an abundance of fruits and vegetables that they generously shared with everyone.

Bernie maintained the apartment buildings, worked on the farm, and also worked full-time at Crown Zellerbach, later known as Crown Forest packaging. He worked there as a machine operator and retired after 14 years of service.

Bernie’s retirement years were filled with happiness, especially with the arrival of his grandchildren, Garrett and Richelle. Whether teaching Garrett how to drive the tractors, playing Barbies with Richelle, or enjoying family holidays in Hawaii, Bernie cherished every moment with his family. His son-in-law, Dave, became an indispensable part of his life, helping to keep things running smoothly and always ready to fix anything that needed repair.

Two and a half years ago, Bernie’s family expanded again when Garrett married his love, Kianna, in a beautiful ceremony on the family property. Soon after, Bernie was blessed with two great-grandsons, Atlas and Lorenzo. They brought even more laughter and love to his life. Bernie took great pride and joy in watching another generation grow up on the land he loved so dearly.

Bernie’s greatest wish was to spend his final days on the land he cherished. We are grateful that he was able to live there until just three weeks before his peaceful passing in his sleep at the hospital. While we are deeply saddened by his loss, we find joy in knowing he is now in heaven, free from the aging body that held him and is at peace in his new home!

A celebration of Bernie’s life will be held at a later date ,where his ashes will be spread on the property he loved so much.

Condolence Messages

Apr 03, 2025
Bernie will be remembered. We met him 35 years ago and cherish all the times with him at church. He was a level headed man who smiled almost all the time! - Bill and Charlene Corbett
Apr 01, 2025
Brenda, Dave, Bev and family,

We are so sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. We will always smile when we think of Bernie with his kind heart and twinkle in his eye. He always had such great stories and a positive attitude. We are praying for peace in your hearts and comfort in knowing he is on a new grand adventure. Love Ross and Dena Langford - Dena Langford
Mar 19, 2025
Our love and thoughts of condolence to Bev, Brenda and Dave, Pam, and the Schmidt family. Our memories go back 59 years to the apartment on Bertram Street. We were all so young and carefree, just looking forward to another party. Time passes so quickly. We’re so glad that we had our last visit with our old friend just before his passing, sharing stories and good memories from over the years. Rest well, dear friend. - Richard and Elaine Gibbons
Mar 17, 2025
Such wonderful neighbours to have for so many years.A big smile and wave were standard procedure from Mr Schmidt.Also enjoyed seeing Mr &Mrs on their many walks in the neighborhood or working in their garden.

My family’s thoughts and prayers are with you though these troubling times

Mark Turton - Mark Turton
Mar 17, 2025
Aunt Bev, Brenda, Pam and extended family

I remember with great fondness times spent with all of you. Laughter and joy are my memories. Uncle Bernie could always light up a room! Thinking of all of you, sending condolences and wishing you peace.

Sandra, Al and Andralyn - New Fairfield, CT - Sandra vonniessen-Applebee
Mar 16, 2025
May your happy memories give you peace and comfort during this challenging time.

Cheryl Mazey - Cheryl Mazey
Mar 16, 2025
Condolences to all of Bernie's family! Many good memories of Bernie and the Top Hat. - Jim Hagen Squamish BC
Mar 16, 2025
Condolences to Bernie's family, good memories of Bernie and Top Hat store. - Jim Hagen Squamish BC
Mar 16, 2025
Dear Bev and family, my sincere condolences to you during this difficult time. I wish you much strength and peace while you grieve Bernie. - Jo @ East Kelowna Post office
Mar 16, 2025
Brenda and Dave and family so sorry to hear of your dads passing. My thoughts are with you and your family cherish your memories. - Faye Hamer
Mar 16, 2025
Thinking of you and your family

He was the nicest man

Dawn Labrecque - Dawn Labrecque
Mar 15, 2025
Bev and family,

Bernie cherished his Lord, his family and his land ~ all generously nurtured with Bernie's love, kindness and delight in living and giving.

My heartfelt love to you all.

Cheers Bernie!

- Jean Allan
Mar 15, 2025
We are saddened to hear of Bernie’s passing.. We visited their lovely place at least once a year for 50 years. He was one the kindest most generous gentleman we had the pleasure to know and to share many a beer. Rest in peace Bernie. - Sandy and Garry Ponich
Mar 15, 2025
Our deepest condolences Beverly and family.

So sorry for your loss. Bernie was one of a kind person, gentle

funny and such a gentleman.

RIP Bernie and know we'll never forget you.

Sincerely,

Mario & Berbie - B. Ciancone
Mar 15, 2025
R.I.P. Bernard

Thank you for your service to our country.

Sincerely - Rick V
Mar 15, 2025
Dear Brenda (Dave), Bev & Families

I was so saddened to hear of Bernie's passing. He was such a wonderful and happy man. Can't say I ever saw him without a big smile on has face, especially when he stopped by the SEKID office to say "hi" and grab a candy or two. I have fond memories of visiting the family home as a teenager, many years ago. East Kelowna has lost another special long time resident.

Rob and I send our thoughts and prayers to the entire family as you go through this difficult time. Knowing that he's gone from this place to his eternal home and knowing you will be reunited one day is the promise of the future.

Sending hugs to All - Jo-Ann Redlich
Mar 14, 2025
To my great friend Big Ed - Ekislanko