Tribute

Steve passed away peacefully Friday, November 18, 2011 at Chilliwack General Hospital at the age of 82 years. He is lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Elizabeth (Betty) Zielke (Obermeyer); daughters Charlotte (Sven Aaberg), Kathy (Ken Person) and Suzy Ware (Lorne Stowell); granddaughters Jessica and Stephanie Ware and other family members and friends. Steve was born July 11, 1929 in Brokenhead Municipality (Beausejour) Manitoba and was raised and worked on the family farm along with his 6 brothers and 7 sisters. He left home to work in the underground mines in Quebec and tried his hand at driving truck. He also worked in a shoe store in Kitchener, Ontario. It was in Kitchener that he met Betty. Steve moved west to Saskatchewan and worked on a grain farm for a time. Steve and Betty were married May 4, 1951 and lived in Edmonton, AB for 16 years where he worked as a men’s clothing specialist for Woodward’s Department Store and later managed the men’s wear department of Simpson Sears. In 1967 Steve, Betty and their three girls moved further west to Chilliwack, BC. Steve spent the rest of his career working in the Woolworth’s men’s wear in Chilliwack until he retired. Over the years Steve enjoyed curling, market gardening, fixing things in his shop and he loved to barter at garage sales and was an avid collector. He served as a member of the Chilliwack Lion’s Club and previously had been a founding member of the Sherwood Park, AB chapter. Steve’s most memorable times were spent at their log house that he helped build in the Spences Bridge area where he and Betty enjoyed their retirement years together. Many hours were spent playing his harmonicas, enjoying the tranquil scenery and watching the various wildlife that would visit. The family extends their thanks to the staff of Nursing Unit 3 of the Chilliwack Hospital for their care and kindness. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 26 at 11:00 a.m. at Free Grace Baptist Church, 45592 Wellington Ave., Chilliwack. Reception will follow at the Chilliwack Masonic Hall, 45905 Hocking Ave., Chilliwack. Flowers are gratefully declined. Donations may be made to the Canadian Red Cross or the Heart and Stroke Society.