We Remember

BUHMAN, Raymond Walter “Wally”
May 19, 1943 — April 4, 2025
It is with immeasurable sadness that we share the passing of Walter Raymond “Wally” Buhman who left us April 4th 2025. He was born May 19, 1943, in Kelowna, BC, where he lived his entire life. Wally was surrounded by his loving and supportive family.
Wally was a man of strong values and immense humour and wisdom. His strongest trait was his common sense, which we will be lost without.
The loss of our husband, father, and grandpa touches every part of our lives. Dad provided unwavering strength and support in a time of need, and his love left a lasting impression on all of us.
Wally started working at Chapmans Transport as a truck driver, later it became Motorways. He was a conscientious, reliable driver that took pride in his work and sacrificed his nights away from his family to take care of our needs. The greatest joy of driving trucks was working with his older brother Arne “AB” who he admired dearly.
While working at Motorways, he decided to become a volunteer firefighter, and shortly after a new career followed. He was hired as a full-time firefighter in 1976 with the Kelowna Fire Department. He was well respected as a lieutenant and spent 27 years with the KFD.
We will always remember the camping trips to Peachland, fishing trips to Minnow Lake, and the four of us squeezing into the old Ford pickup to go get firewood for the winter but always finding time for a picnic.
Dad was known for his quick wit and his kindness towards life’s underdogs. He loved his family wholeheartedly and unconditionally.
Wally was predeceased by his parents Raymond and Theresa; his sisters Antonia, Ethel, Hilda, Irma, and Margerite; and his brother Arne.
Dad is survived by his wife of 62 years, Evelyn; his children, Lori (Larry) and Kevin (Ingrid); grandchildren, Rylee (Hayley), Kobe (Lindsay), Carter (Zadie), Camryn, and Anika; and his sister Louise; sister-in-law, Emily, and brother-in-law, LRoy.
In lieu of flowers, please consider Wally’s legacy by donating to COHA (Central Okanagan Hospice Association). Dad would like to thank all the staff at Kelowna Hospice for their compassion and kindness, and to the staff at KGH that assisted him through this journey. He would also like to thank all his friends, family, and firemen that came to visit and to share their stories.
Wally has requested a graveside service for his immediate family at Kelowna Memorial Park Cemetery. A day to celebrate Wally will take place shortly after, but a time and place is to be decided.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
So sorry to hear Wally’s passing condolences to the Buhman family. The Knorr family
Dear Evelyn & Family,
We are thinking of you all and are sending our love and hugs. Love, Marge, Doug & Family
I’m so sorry to hear of Wally’s passing. My dad also worked for Chapmans in Vernon and knew Wally. He was a great guy…and I will cherish my memories of him, Evelyn, Arne and the family who I was pleased to share some time with in my early years with Wendy. Memories are wonderful when they are of wonderful people…
To Evelyn & family – so sorry to hear about Wally. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time of sorrow.
Dear Ev, Lori, Larry, Kevin and all the family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. Wally will be dearly remembered. Sending lots of love your way.
Jodee and Greg Salmon
Lori – my condolences. I’m so sorry to hear of your families loss.
Missing my brother in law. He was so inviting to me when I came to see my sister… He did always complain about the weight of my suitcase and questioned to how long I was staying. The complaining came with a smile. He had a unique sense of humour. I am hoping that he and Jim are sharing a beer together up there. Love and hugs to all the beautiful family he created.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. Uncle Wally was such a wonderful man, Keith loved to golf with him and he loved his sense of humour. All my love goes out to Aunty Evelyn and your family at this tough time. Hold each other close and enjoy the memories you have all shared. Love Judy
We will miss you& your distinctive voice& laugh and the great trips we had with the four of us Love & thoughts with all family in dealing with your loss Larry &Berni
Evelyn and family. We are deeply sorry for your loss
Our sympathies to you, Evelyn and your family. Wally’s company was enjoyable. He made us breakfast, I believe you were on your way home from Vancouver. We were just passing through. I’m sure Wally will be greatly missed.
Evelyn and family – I am so sorry for your loss . Wally was a great brother-in-law and uncle and will be missed.. We will treasure the many good memories of times with him. Sending you all the strength and Love at this difficult time.