SCHALM, Erwin

January 9, 1931 — February 20, 2023

Erwin Schalm, devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed away peacefully at Kelowna General Hospital on Monday, February 20, 2023. He was 92 years old.

Erwin was born in Poland on January 9, 1931. He immigrated to Canada in 1949 at the age of 18, and was later married to his lifelong partner, Susan Schalm (nee Klimek) on November 12, 1955. Susan and Erwin began their journey together in Kelowna, BC where they raised a family and resided for the entirety of their marriage.

On his arrival in Canada, Erwin first worked for the Occidental Fruit Company. While there, he became an accountant, and then later, bought his first business, Scott’s Building Supplies. After a few years, he sold the business and started the Kelowna Cash and Carry, at the time the city’s largest hardware store and lumber yard. Finally, Erwin sold the business and bought ABS Appliance Repairs, a reputable sales and service company that he ran for many years. In 1997, Erwin retired to spend more time with family and his hobbies.

Erwin will be fondly remembered for his integrity, his devotion to family, and for his accomplishments as a businessman. His honesty and curiosity was an inspiration to those that came to know him. Erwin was also a poet and writer of children’s stories, a passion that he carried with him through his youth until his final days.  Erwin was dearly loved and he will be missed.

Erwin was predeceased by his wife Susan on September 5, 2020. He is survived by his four children, Daniel Schalm (and wife Lelle), David Schalm, Cindy Schalm (and life partner Dwayne) and Charmain Schalm (and life partner Jonathan) and their daughter Shayla. He is also survived by his sister, Renate Jansen of Vernon, BC.

The children of Erwin Schalm wish to thank the staff of Orchard Manor for the care they gave him in his final months, and heartfelt gratitude to son David Schalm for being faithfully and lovingly at Erwin’s side to assist him during the final years of his journey.

A Private Family Service will be held to honour Erwin.

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