Obituary of Bernhard Reimer

Dad was born November 6, 1927 in the Steinbach region, to Klaus D and Margareta (Dueck). He just celebrated his 93rd birthday while living at the Rest Haven Nursing Home. He was a board member for Rest Haven for many years, and was very interested in watching the progression of the present new addition.

He married Helena Hiebert on Sept 19, 1948. They had four children: Lorna Froese, Waldon (Rose), Jeannette Petkau, and Mel (Eleanor); adding eight grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

Working as a carpenter his entire career, he was pleased to go into partnership known as BMW Construction with his two sons, Waldon and Mel, in the early 80’s. He retired at age 71, and then helped out his two sons in the business until age 75. He took pride in the many homes they had built. Dad’s motto was “To do work with measured perfection, not complain, and be generous to others.” This is what gave him a good reputation.

He was strong in character, body and faith. His twinkle in his eyes and his humour brought joy to those around him. Our Mom and Dad went on mission trips and gave support to Rio Grande Bible Institute and opened their home to guests. They hosted Bible Studies and enjoyed sharing their faith and growing in Christ with others. Dad accepted Christ and was baptized in May 1948.

Taking family trips were a delight as he loved adventure. His far-off relatives lived in Belize and Texas, therefore family trips were taken there, as well as a family Alaskan Cruise in 2016. His last trip was in 2017 with daughter Lorna, to visit family in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and the Canadian East Coast.

He had lost his wife Helen from a stroke on June 28^th, 2014. He was the last surviving member of eight brothers and one sister. He moved to Bridgepark Manor in 2016, and enjoyed puzzling, playing pool and going out for coffee with his friends. After experiencing a difficult stroke in April 2018, he was hospitalized at Bethesda where he had another stroke 2 weeks later. He functioned quite well back at Bridgepark Manor until multiple mini strokes eventually led him to live at Rest Haven in March 2020.

After fighting Covid, the isolation and loneliness from his family for over 3 weeks led to the decline of his health, and probably another stroke. But his faith was strong, and his desire to be with his Lord and Saviour led him home.

Thank you to all those at Rest Haven and Home Care, who have taken good care of Dad. God bless you and keep you in HIs care.

~ With Love from the Family

A private graveside service will take place, beside his wife, at Heritage Cemetery, Steinbach, MB.

Donations in memory of Ben may be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.