We Remember
WITZKE, Brian Henry – Updated Service Information
November 28, 1947 — July 14, 2024
It is with saddened hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Brian Witzke. Born on November 28, 1947, in Vernon, BC, he passed away peacefully on July 14, 2024, in Kelowna, BC at the age of 76. He was predeceased by his parents Henry and Rosine Witzke, and generations of beloved German Shepherds. Brian is survived by his wife Dorothy; son Shayne; daughter Sheila (Josh) Parker and grandson Jaxson; and his current shepherd Sage.
Brian grew up working alongside his father on the family orchard, and lived all his life in the Belgo area of Kelowna. For 12 years, he was a member of the BCD’s Kelowna Squadron and spent time in the Vernon camp and camp Wainwright, working his way up to Warrant Officer. In 1974, he married Dorothy Eso and together they welcomed son Shayne in 1976. In 1978, daughter Sheila arrived, completing their family.
Dorothy and the kids also spent a lot of time working in the orchard, with Brian gradually taking over the farm from his father. Brian and Dorothy were the first farmers ever to receive the Golden Apple Award and Compact Apple Award in the same year. In time, Shayne eventually became his partner.
Brian had a strong work ethic and expected the same from others. Brian believed in doing things properly – he didn’t want shoddy work. He did a lot of his own repairs, and learned to weld so he could fix his own equipment, or even make it himself.
Brian enjoyed travelling – with the family or just together with Dorothy. Through his lifetime they drove from the North Pole on the Alaska Highway, to areas as far south as the Mexican border, visiting almost everywhere along the way; they saw historic locations across BC and scenery throughout Canada. They ventured to Hawaii, Cuba, and made several trips to Europe to see family and explore.
He also loved fishing, on the ocean or just on a hidden lake in the hills. While he’d enjoyed hunting, shooting onto film using his camera became his favourite pastime instead.
Brian had strong opinions and expressed them freely, but you always knew where you stood with him – you always got his honest take.
Being close to Brian meant receiving regular doses of his often mischievous sense of humour, and feeling lucky to be included – because when you were together, the laughter was from the heart, and the joy meant to be shared.
A private Memorial Service for family has been arranged by Springfield Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life for friends and neighbours is being held at the farm, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Memorial donations may be sent to Heart & Stroke Foundation and to the MS Society of Canada.
If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area call “Condolences”.
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Heart & Stroke Foundation and to the MS Society of Canada Link: www.heartandstroke.ca, mscanada.ca
Condolences
In 1976 and 77, maybe a bit longer, I worked for Brian. Just a 14 year old kid, he taught me picking, pruning, propping, thinning , and much much more. I developed a very strong work ethic that carried me through life, between him and my father I learned everything I needed to succeed. I will never forget him, I really don’t know what made me look up the Wizke farm at this time and find out he had just passed…
I didn’t mention Brian was my first actual job summers and after school he gave me my first taste of cherry moonshine. We worked, we laughed, he kicked me in the ass when I did it wrong. His shepherd then was king. I met henry before he passed and met Shane when he was still in diapers.
My sympathies to the Witzke family. I recall my very first encounter with Brian when I stated selling equipment in the Okanagan. He had strong opinions and I listened to everything he said. We developed a good business relationship over the 20 years i have been here and always enjoyed visits with him. He was very particular and it showed in how well his orchard was run. RIP Brian
Brian , what the hell are you doing diying so young. Yes you were and always rough at the edges. That’s what most people will remember. But once you got to know him, he had a heart of gold.
I will remember as a true professional at his trade – orcharding. The industry is missing talent like him. I remember our agriculture trip to Cuba. Brian’s generosity, both in material items, and knowledge made all of us proud to be Canadians.
Dorthy, to you and your family, my sincere condolences.
Russ
This is a very sad loss. I met Brian only once at the farm when he and Shayne toured myself and Tom W around. But he left a lasting good impression. Bryan was super engaged and super proud of the orchard and what the family had accomplished. Sending my sincere condolences.
Condolences to the Witzke family. The news of Brian’s health hit us all pretty hard as we have known Brian for over 20 years and enjoyed his sense of humor and visits. He will be missed. Sincerely Lakeside Hearing Team
My sincerest condolences to the Witzke family on Brian’s passing. I knew Brian socially through his friendship and business association with my parents, Herman and Terry Bush. Brian and 2 other local orchardists helped my Dad learn some of the ins and outs of managing the business of fruit growing. There were several get-togethers with this group (my mom fondly referred as the “4 musketeers of the industry”). There was so much comraderie and laughter amongst them all. I have to say Brian’s was the biggest and most infectious. All joking aside, Brian had a strong passion for life, family and farming. He led by example. The orcharding community in Kelowna has lost another knowledgeable mentor. I hope the memories you have made together over the years will bring you peace as you grieve his passing.
Regards, Lise.
My condolences to Dorothy and family. Brian was a good friend to my dad, Herman. May you find comfort in your memories of Brian.