We Remember

MEIER, Rae

September 24, 1945 — July 9, 2023

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Rae Kenneth Meier, who peacefully departed on July 9, 2023, after a courageous 17-year battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He triumphed over his illness and found solace in the loving embrace of Jesus, where he is now whole and healed. We find solace in this, and it brings us great joy.

Rae was born on September 24, 1945, in Regina, Saskatchewan, to Harold and Charlotte Meier. The family resided in Balgonie and later moved to Davison, Saskatchewan. Rae pursued his education at the University of Saskatoon before relocating to Calgary, AB, where he discovered a career in the oil industry.

It was in Calgary that he met Gail, a young lab technician, and their destinies intertwined. In April 1969, at the tender ages of 22 and 20 respectively, Rae and Gail embarked on a journey of love as they exchanged vows. Last April, they celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary, a testament to the deep connection they shared.

In 1972, Rae and Gail moved to British Columbia and fulfilled Rae’s lifelong dream of owning his own business by opening a small chain of Kelly’s Stereo Mart stores. Music and stereo equipment were Rae’s passions, and he poured his heart into this venture. After selling the stores in the 1980s, he explored various endeavours, trying his hand as a stockbroker and delving into businesses such as Lease Mart. Eventually, he founded a mortgage investment company, which he diligently nurtured until his retirement.

Throughout his business endeavours, Rae became known for his honesty, integrity, and dedication to serving his clients. His genuine care and compassion for others were evident in every interaction.

Rae had a zest for life and an active spirit. He thrived as an athlete and sports enthusiast, indulging in activities such as winter skiing at Big White, water-skiing on Okanagan Lake, hiking, camping, tennis, golf, and, above all, cherishing moments with his family. He was an exceptional father to his three children and embraced their friends as his own. The Meier household was a place of warmth and welcome for all.

Community service was close to Rae’s heart, and he actively contributed to various organizations. He served on the Downtown Business Association board, the Sunshine Theatre board, and was a dedicated member of the Rotary Club and the Church Council. For many years, he played an integral role in Young Life Kelowna, impacting the lives of countless young individuals.

Rae leaves behind his beloved wife of 54 years, Gail, who will deeply miss him. He will forever remain in the hearts of his children, Allison (Marcus), Daniel (Kristabel), and Bradley, as well as his cherished grandchildren, Grayson, Maya, and Malia Rae. He is also survived by his sister Carol and extended family in Saskatchewan.

A service to honour and celebrate Rae’s life will be held, on TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023, at 10:00 AM, at SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME with a reception to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer Society of BC. The family would also like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Pear Lane at Brants Creek Mews for their compassionate and loving care, which Rae received during his three years of residence there.

Rae Kenneth Meier will forever be remembered as a man of integrity, passion, and love. His presence enriched the lives of those who had the privilege of knowing him, and his legacy will continue to inspire. He has completed the race set before him, he is in heaven, fully restored and free. May this knowledge and his memory bring comfort to all who mourn his loss.

If you are unable to attend in person, please join the family online by Livestream at the time of the service (see below), a recording will be made available to view shortly thereafter.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

 

Service
TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023, at 10:00 AM

Location
SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

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Alzheimer Society of BC Link: alzheimer.ca/bc

 


Service Information

Service Details


The service for MEIER, Rae is scheduled for TUESDAY, JULY 18, 2023, at 10:00 AM. Below you will find the map for the service location and the contact information should you have any questions.

Address & Contact for Service Location:

SPRINGFIELD FUNERAL HOME

2020 Springfield Road Kelowna, BC

Phone:

Special Requests:

None.

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Condolences

  • Grant Putnam says:
    July 14, 2023 at 6:39 pm

    Gail, Allison, Daniel, Bradley, and families. Our sincerest condolences. Our families have a long history with many many good memories. Seagull island, the Ski cabin, watching the kids learn to ski, are just a few of the many many good times we spent together.. Rae was the greatest business partner anyone could ever ask for. His calm diplomatic mannerisms helped us weather the good times as well as some difficult times. I was always grateful for that. “So many memories floating through the back roads of my mind”. I do know that wherever you are now Rae your driving a fast car. Rest in peace Rae. Grant and Janet.

    Reply
  • Glenn & Lorraine Brodt says:
    July 17, 2023 at 8:32 pm

    Gail, Allison, Daniel, Bradley and families. Our deepest sympathies. We were saddened to hear of Rae’s passing. We have wonderful memories of our visits with Rae in Kelowna. Our hope is that the memories you have bring you comfort in the days ahead. Glenn and Lorraine.

    Reply
  • Wendy and Howard Soon says:
    August 19, 2023 at 11:43 am

    We will always remember Ray’s great warm smile ! Such a nice person! Our condolences to you and the family Gail lots of love to you all!

    Reply
  • Chris Sarich says:
    August 31, 2023 at 12:09 pm

    My condolences Gail and family so sorry to hear about Rae’s passing. We were were high school buddies and shared many good times

    Reply

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Judith Szabo

Everything was so organized and pertinent to what we needed. Everyone we met was kind, courteous and very helpful during our emotional and challenging time. Thank you so much.

Heather Mayne

They were so prompt on answering any questions and changing things. They were prepared and respected any religious decisions. The process was so seamless and made easy in such a high stress situation.

Tanya Kohar

In the past 2 years Springfield has helped us through the death of my Mother and my Father. Their response and help allowed us to focus on the remaining family rather than worrying about details of the funeral and all the notifications that are required upon a death.

Terry Eldridge

The atmosphere has been nothing but professional during times of grief.  After the passing of my mother, the staff coached me on the next steps and looked after filling in all the government forms that I needed to sign, which took a huge burden off my mind at the time.

Donald McClure

Everyone was so helpful and kind.  There was no pressure.  They provided exactly what we needed.

Diane Greenwood

From the time I called to the completion of all the services, I received compassionate, attentive and professional care.  There was a sense of caring from each staff member.  I was turning over my Mom to their care and I felt very comfortable with everyone.  I felt heard and never felt pushed into any decision.

Katherine Lewis

I have always found the team at Springfield Funeral Home to be VERY caring, kind, considerate and helpful.  I have and will continue to recommend them to anyone who asks which funeral home would I suggest they use.  No other funeral home I have dealt with even comes close to Springfield Funeral Home.

Ethna Tutt

Right at the onset, I was made very comfortable, there was no pressure.  I was made to feel as if I was the only one they had to serve.

Frances Baum

Everything that was arranged for us was perfect.  Our loved one, husband, father, brother was treated with respect.  Thank you for making this difficult time a little more acceptable via your staff’s obvious caring and respect.

Jacquelene Bluschke