We Remember
FINK, Werner Josef
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Werner Josef Fink of Kelowna, BC passed away peacefully on Feb 25th 2022 – just shy of his 86th birthday.
He is survived by his loving wife of 61 years – Betty Ann; his sons Jason and Jeff (Iris); and granddaughters Michaela and Katrina; predeceased by his older brother John (Elizabeth) and survived by their daughter Diana in Toronto, and his younger brother Manfred (Herta) in Austria.
Werner was born in Markt Allhau, Austria, where he grew up and worked on the family farm. At 19, he boarded a ship and immigrated to Canada to join his older brother John and cousin Karl Krutzler, and their extended families in Toronto.
Werner epitomized a strong work ethic. He worked at many jobs while furthering his education at night school for over 10 years. During that time, he met the love of his life, Betty, and they were married within the year. While working full-time, Werner managed to renovate three homes in Scarborough with the help of his family.
After many years employed as a power plant engineer, his qualifications were noticed by IBM, where he excelled and was promoted to Utility Plant Manager. He retired early at age 56 after nearly 30 years of service with the company.
Upon retirement, Werner and Betty travelled extensively throughout the world. In 1992, they relocated to Kelowna, BC, continued to travel, and Werner renovated two more homes.
In Kelowna, he was an avid golfer and skier, which he combined with Snow Hosting at Big White for many years. Later in life he took up hiking with the Kelowna Naturalists Club, curling, and enjoyed bridge and euchre nights.
Werner was a devoted family man and a people person who loved chatting with anyone that came across his path. He was a great cook and winemaker of mixed results. His personality and kindness created many enduring friendships over the years.
His family would like to thank all the doctors and nurses at Kelowna General Hospital and Okanagan Hospice House for their outstanding care. Special thanks to Dr. Paul Hart, who was his family physician for over 25 years.
Werner will be greatly missed – Auf Wiedersehen.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Betty, Jason and Jeff, Iris and girls. Please accept our sincerest sympathy on the passing of your husband, father
and grandfather. Lois and I knew your family extremely well and enjoyed many days and trips together. We will miss our many get-togethers and all the fun we had on our trips. Please know that we grieve with you and share your sorrow. God bless you all. Gerry and Lois Rosenquist
Werner was a great man, one who left a strong legacy of caring and contributing. He was definitely never short of words or shy to share his opinion. We share in your grief at this difficult time.
Robin and Hilary
Dear Uncle Werner, you will be sadly missed by myself and my mother Trudy, however we are at least comforted by all the great memories we had when you lived in Scarborough.
Werner represents the achievement possible for a steadfast immigrant to Canada: willingness to start near the bottom, to work hard, to improve his education and to fit into society. We’re still in awe of his capabilities evident in the houses that he renovated. Our daughter is fortunate to have found such a father in law with whom we had a wonderful relationship . We are heart-broken about his passing.
A thought of comfort and condolences to the grieving family, sending all our Love.
Betty, Jason, Jeff and family We were sorry to hear of Werner’s passing. What a lovely fried and neighbour he was. We miss all of you, and you are in our prayers. Take care of each other. Joan, Calvin., Cassie, and Craig
My dear Betty, and family. I’m so sorry to hear of Werner’s passing. I’m saying a little prayer for you all. I hope you’re feeling better than you were when we last visited. May God give you strength, peace and comfort during this trying time. Love you as always, Liz
Aunt Betty and family, we so sorry hear the passing of Uncle Warner we keep you all in our prayers and thoughts .
Please accept our heartfelt sympathy on the passing of Werner. Werner was a strong and passionate person. A good listener. We know Werner’s memory will live on with you, Betty, his sons, and his grandchildren indeed, and all of those whose lives he touched . Hearing about his positive qualities and strong character mentioned, provides some comfort in a time of pain.
Betty, So saddened to hear of Werner’s passing. He was a wonderful man. I hope you and your family will find comfort in the precious memories you shared.