We Remember
BERNATH, Kenneth Dale
August 20, 1936 — July 4, 2024
It is with deep sadness that the family of Ken Bernath announce his peaceful passing at home, surrounded by family, on July 4, 2024, at the age of 87.
Ken was born on August 20, 1936, on the family farm just outside of Willowbrook, Saskatchewan. He loved to share early stories of his farm escapades, and especially loved his pony, Dandy, who faithfully transported him to school.
Ken decided at an early age that the farming life was not for him. His career choices would eventually land him a position with the Bank of Toronto, which later became the Toronto Dominion Bank. His first management position with the bank would take him from Saskatchewan to Dawson Creek, BC, where he would meet the love of his life, Margaret West. The two married in November 1959, and had three children, Donna, Karen, and Mark.
Ken’s banking career lasted 20 years, and the family saw many transfers between Edmonton and Calgary. Feeling it was time for a change, Ken and Marg became the proud owners of the Mission Park Dairy Queen and moved the family to Kelowna, BC in December 1975. The whole family was very involved in the restaurant, even the grandchildren when they became old enough. In January of 2009, the business was sold to their son, Mark.
Ken was passionate about many things over the years. Through golfing, gardening, Rotary Club, and volunteering at Kelowna General Hospital, many lasting friendships were formed.
In later years, Ken’s health did not allow him to participate in many of the activities he loved, but he stilled enjoyed connecting with friends and family over a meal or coffee. One of his favourite pastimes was sitting in his garden, soaking up the sun and watching the birds and flowers.
Ken was predeceased by his father John Bernath; mother Clara Bernath; and brother Garvin Bernath.
He is survived by his wife Margaret; daughters Donna Greer and Karen Bernath; son Mark Bernath (Deb Laslop); grandchildren Christine and Andrew Greer (Jaclyn Shierholtz), and Ryan (Lindsey Hovey), Tambry, and Talia Bernath; as well as siblings Lila Freysteinson, Judi Glenn (Brian), and Sandy Kew.
The family wishes to thank Ken’s family physicians, Dr. Naude and Dr. Mentz, and all members of the Interior Health teams for their care and compassion over the past few years.
As per Ken’s request, there will be no formal service. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the KGH Foundation, in Ken’s honour.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Very sorry for your loss. Ken was well loved and appreciated. I remember him smiling while while at the Dairy Queen. My thoughts are with you. ❤️
Mr. B, as we called him, will be deeply missed by the Serhan family. We are so grateful for the job opportunities he gave our children when they were teenagers. He helped instill in them a good work ethic, punctuality, and many life skills and much more. We all have many fond memories of Mr. B. and the DQ days! He will always be a part of the closeness we share with the Bernath family. RIP Mr. B.
Our love and prayers are with you all!
Karen and the whole Bernath family, I am so sorry to hear of your Dad’s passing – such a sad time for you all. Please know that I am thinking of you at this time and hope that you and your family are sharing wonderful memories of your Dad which will help you through this difficult time.
Karen and family, so very sorry for the loss of your Dad. Hugs to you and wishing peace and comfort to you.
We send or sincere condolences to a wonderful family. We have such great memories of bridge playing,special dinners, bocce games and a special one year celebration for our son 48 years ago.
Dearest Christine I’m really sorry to hear about Pa. He was a true gem. Sending you lots of love ❤️ and big comforting hugs during this difficult time. Donna, Karen and Mark, A good man like your dad deserves a good place in Heaven. Cherised memories of your dad will bring you comfort in the difficult days ahead. RIP Ken Bernath. Treasure all stories from when he ran the Dairy Queen in the Mission.
To the Bernath family. We are saddened to learn on Ken’s passing. He was such a wonderful man always had that smile on his face ready to greet anyone. . We are proud to call him a friend since he opened the DQ. Please hold all your loving memories close to your hearts and they will always be near. I am sure he will be be his sidekick playing golf pretty soon trying to catch up to Jim.
Sending all our love and prayers Gerry and Lillian Moller