Obituary of David Elmer Bjerstedt

 

David Elmer Bjerstedt

March 19, 1921 - July 31, 2022

 

David Bjerstedt passed away peacefully on July 31, 2022 at his home in Joseph’s Creek Care Village at the amazing age of 101 years.  The family feel blessed that he was alert, sociable and able to enjoy a game of crib with his son, Leon, until his final day.

 

Dave was born on the family homestead near St. Boswells, Saskatchewan.  As a young boy, he attended the one-room Emery School and helped his Dad farm their land.  Dave met his future wife, Olive, while helping her father harvest his crops in nearby Hallonquist.  In 1943, David enlisted in the R.C.A.F. and completed his pilot’s training at Pat Bay.  He married Olive on February 23, 1944, in Vancouver, and left soon after to fly 3 tours in Burma during WWII.  He returned to Saskatchewan in 1946, and shortly after set out with Olive and their baby daughter to find employment in Vancouver.  They were snowed in while traveling through Cranbrook, so Dave found employment with CPRail and the family settled here to raise their 3 children, Darlene, Leon and Beverley.  Dave retired from CPRail in Cranbrook, as a conductor, after 35 years of service.

 

In his younger years, Dave was active in the United Church, served on City Council and was always involved in politics.  He was an avid hunter, curler, Ice Hockey fan, reader, card player and a chocolate lover.  Dave and Olive travelled to 56 countries in the world with Squadron friends, enjoyed many Squadron Reunions, and was always excited to visit his farm in Saskatchewan, even in his 90’s.  Dave loved spending time with his family and is remembered by his grandchildren for his positive inspiration.  He will be loved and missed, always.

 

Dave was predeceased by Olive, his wife of 77 years, in December 2021, and by his 5 siblings.  He is survived by his daughter Darlene Stevely, son Leon (Vicki), daughter Beverley Bjerstedt, seven grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren and 12 great-great grandchildren.

 

Dave’s family would like to thank Dr. Andreas, the staff at Joseph’s Creek, and Dane (and staff) at McPherson Funeral Home for their compassion and care.

 

A graveside service at Westlawn Cemetery, to honour the lives of David and Olive, will be held on Saturday, August 27th at 11:00 a.m., for family and friends, with lunch to follow at McPherson Funeral Home.