REIMER, Howard James

June 19, 1928 — February 10, 2014

Howard passed away peacefully in hospice following complications from Parkinson’s disease.  He is survived by his wife Brigitte (nee Zickmantel), children Douglas (Barbara), Elizabeth (Jerry) and Neil (Amy), grandchildren Alex, Anneka, and Katie-Anne and step-grandchildren James and Heather.  Howard was born in Steinbach, Manitoba and received English degrees from the University of Winnipeg (B.A., M.A.) and from McMaster University (Ph.D.).  From 1974 to 1993, he taught English literature at Okanagan University College in Kelowna, BC, with a special focus on Canadian literature.  For many years he served as chair of the English Department and helped to lead the department through its transition to a four-year degree program.  His other passion in life was singing and he was the tenor soloist for some of the Okanagan Symphony performances of the Messiah at Christmas.  He also gave recitals of Lieder and other art songs and for eighteen years was choir director at St. David’s Presbyterian Church.  Along with Brigitte, Howard was a committed member of his church and was active in community service.  He was a founding member of the Kelowna Chamber Music Society and served for many years on session at St. David’s.  Howard was devoted to Brigitte and his family.  He took pride in all his children’s work and accomplishments and provided love and care throughout their lives.  He had a ready smile and a quiet but occasionally mischievous sense of humour.  The family wishes to thank those at Kelowna General Hospital and Central Okanagan Hospice House who cared for Howard in his final days.  In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Parkinson’s Society of British Columbia, or to St. David’s Presbyterian Church in Kelowna, BC.  A service to celebrate Howard’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 24th at St. David’s Presbyterian Church, 271 Snowsell St., Kelowna, BC, with Dr. Lorna Hillian officiating. If you wish to send a condolence, post photos or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Share Your Condolences.”