Obituary of Raymond Joseph Hemmelgarn

September 4, 1922 - May 24, 2014

Ray Hemmelgarn was born on September 4, 1922 in St. Walburg, Saskatchewan to parents Charles and Elizabeth Hemmelgarn. Ray passed away peacefully on May 24, 2014 in Invermere, BC. He was 91.

At the age of 12, Ray moved with his family from St. Walburg to Nut Mountain, SK. He was industrious from a young age and worked on the family farm.

Ray met Elsie Potter at a dance, and after dating and their engagement they were married in 1946. They lived in Nut Mountain until they moved to Invermere in December 1954, where they remained together thereafter.

In Invermere, Ray had a long career at the Radium sawmill; retiring in 1987, after working there for over 20 years. He was also an avid woodworker and he enjoyed making furniture for his family.

Ray was dedicated to the community. He was a member of the Invermere volunteer fire department for over 20 years, which included several years as their fire chief. He was also a member of Lions Club for over 25 years, which included his terms as their club president.

Ray's greatest source of pride and accomplishment was his family. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Elsie and by his four children and their spouses: Donna and Doug Biggar of Salmon Arm; Darlene and Dale Beddie of Penticton; Gregg and Sandi Hemmelgarn, of Invermere; and Gordon and Shannon Hemmelgarn, of Red Deer. He is also survived by nine grandchildren and eighteen great grandchildren. He was pre-deceased by his parents and 12 of his 13 siblings. He will be missed, and we will always have fond memories of his kindness and love.

A memorial service for Ray will be held at 2:00 pm, on Friday, May 30th at the Catholic Church of Canadian Martyrs, (1210 - 9th Street) in Invermere, BC. A memorial tea will follow immediately after the service at the Canadian Legion, (525 - 13th Street) in Invermere, BC.

As an expression of sympathy, memorial contributions may be sent to the Hospice Society of the Columbia Valley or a charity of your choice.

 

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com