We Remember
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.”
Service
2:00 p.m. on Monday, February 24th
Location
St. David's Presbyterian Church
Dearest Brigiette and family
I extend my deepest sympathy on the death of your dear Howard. He was a quiet man filled with music and love, who touched many lives.
Be assured of the comfort of the Lord as you say “Good-bye”. God Bless you all.
With love and prayers,
Beryl Baldeo
Dear Brigitte,
Please accept my sincerest sympathy. Howard was one of the ‘good’ guys, with a welcoming smile and a fun sense of humor and one of the most wicked serves in tennis! He’ll be missed.
I have wonderful musical memories of Howard and his fine lyrical voice. My condolences to his family on their loss.
Doug:
Thinking of you and your family at this most difficult time. Your Dad will surely be missed.
Mario, Donna, Jessica and Jonathan Russo
My sincere condolences for the passing of Howard. He was such a good man – husband,father and grandfather – accomplished and respected by all who knew him. If there is anything I can do to help you through this time, Brigitte, even if it is just to listen and share, I would be happy to.
Brigitte, Cannot attend the service since I am out of town but just wanted to tell you how much I always enjoyed Howard and his sense of humour. He actually encouraged me to take my BA (Engl) at OUC after I retired and I never regretted it. Sorry that you had to lose him but so glad to have known him. Pat Reiter
My sincerest condolences to the Reimer family. I deeply regret not being able to attend the funeral having been out of town on family emergency and therefore unable to cancel my class. Howard helped me a great deal in my early career here and negotiated many challenges in the department at that time.
Dear Reimer Family
I was saddened to hear of Howard’s passing. I worked with Howard at OC and OUC from 1975-1993. Howard was on my favorite people list. He was a very pleasant gentle man. I had the pleasure of sharing a round of golf with him a couple of years ago. It was great to reconnect. He will be missed.
With sympathy,
Dave Smith