We Remember
KUPPE, Alois Bernhard
March 6, 1935 — October 7, 2021
Tarnau, Germany – Kelowna, BC, Canada
Kuppe, Alois “Al” Bernhard slipped away during the morning of October 7, 2021, following a courageous five-month battle with lung cancer. He will be greatly missed by his loving partner, Christa Gendemann and cherished children, Frank Kuppe (Lynne), Angela Zailo (Deryk), Peggy Brown (Clarence), Mark Kuppe (Gabriela) and Andreas Kuppe (Kimberly); as well as his dear grandchildren Meghan (Grayson), Jane, Liam, Nathan, Andreas, Vanessa (Skyler), Katie (Yasid), Jessica, Karl, Rafael, Sydney and Makenna, and one great-grandchild, Zayden Suggs. Dad was predeceased by his wife of 55 years, Adelheid Marie Kuppe, in 2017.
Alois moved with his family, shortly after WWII, from Tarnau to Voigtholz, Germany, where he grew up learning the trades of beekeeping, farming, and landscaping. In 1960, he immigrated to Canada “the land of opportunity”, making his way to Edmonton, AB where he met his wife, Adelheid “Heidi” Markeli, married and started his family of five children. He eventually established his own company involved in various construction projects, which led to an opportunity to own and manage a marine business in Spruce Grove, AB for almost twenty years, and an automotive business in Edmonton for another dozen years. While in Spruce Grove, he managed to get elected and serve time on town council for a term. Alois and Heidi moved to Summerland, B.C. to “retire” in 2008.
Dad’s legacy is his family and his resiliency for life. We were blessed to have him as a father and “Opa”. Dad always took satisfaction in his work (“hat immer spass gemacht”) and was very dedicated to whatever project he had at hand, yet he took the time to ensure we had fun at the cabin, teaching us skiing and visiting relatives (Germany). In his later years, he took great pleasure playing his violin with various musical groups (including the “tune-agers”) for seniors’ care homes. He also treasured and enjoyed gatherings with his friends at the German Club in Kelowna, BC and his neighbours in Summerland.
A Celebration of Life will be held at the Kelowna German Club (at a later date) when Covid restrictions ease up. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to any cancer research of your choosing.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.
Was very sorry to hear of the passing of Uncle Al.
The things I will remember is :Time spend together as a family unit. At the cabin on the weekends . Times spend together at each other’s homes. . Than at his home in Summerland B..C.
Some things I will remember personally is when : Uncle Al tried to teach me water skiing. . Which did
not go to well for me . Will always remember the card games and playing chess with him. Especially when he would take two players of the board . Than he would say now we’re even, and still won.
So my deepest sympathy to all the Kuppe , Zailo , and Brown Family.
Love and peace.
Will pray for you all during this difficult time
George Markeli
Thanks George. I didn’t know he gave you such an advantage in chess – lucky you!
Love, Angie
So saddened to hear of your Dad’s passing to get his Angel wings. Your dad and Mom were so special to us when you lived in Spruce Grove. So many great memories. Angela and Peggy baby sitting for us, Mark and Kelly, building a Fort in our back yard. Al sold our first boat and Heidi teaching ME how to cook German meals. Our thoughts and prayers are with you
Marlene and Lawrence
Thank you Kaups – I remember babysitting for you and loved it! Thanks for sharing.
Angie
He will be greatly missed and remember for his music and great get togethers and friendship
Klaus and I are so sad to hear of your Dad/Granddads passing. We remember the many wonderful hours we had together and will cherish the memories for the rest of our lives. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.
Thank you Tante Helga – we remember all the get-togethers!
Angie