ERNIE TSCHETTER

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ERNIE TSCHETTER On July 11, 2006, the unofficial Ambassador of Kelowna, Ernie Tschetter, peacefully ended his long and courageous battle with cancer. Ernie was lovingly cradled by his family as he left this earth to continue his journey. Ernie's positive outlook on life and selflessness was an inspiration to all those who knew him, putting others before himself. Ernie and Darlene maintained their regular routine throughout his illness and would not allow his illness to dominate their lives. Ernie is survived by Darlene his loving wife of 25 years. Ernie and Darlene's love and devotion to each other was there right until the end. Survived by his father Joseph and his mother Rachel, brothers and sisters, Harold, Sarah (Wayne), Joe (Donna), Sam (Marcy), Marion (Jason), Mike (Wendy), Arthur, Margaret (Brian), Gary (Laura), Kathy and Elaine (Willie). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews which he loved to spend time with. Ernie has many friends and associates which he cherished dearly. Ernie was born in rural Manitoba and grew up in Winnipeg. He graduated from Kildonan East in 1975, majoring in Carpentry and was employed as a carpenter immediately upon graduating. In 1991 he and Darlene moved to Kelowna, BC, which became a turning point in his life where he found a new passion, building custom homes. He embraced Kelowna as his new home. This was evident by his enthusiasm in learning the history, the points of interest and sharing his newfound knowledge with all who visited, hence the family title The Ambassador of Kelowna'. Ernie was well read and kept up with current events, evident by his love of his lively debates. He thrived on exchanging opposing view points with anyone who cared to participate in the discussion. Special thanks to Dr. Mackle, Irene, Bev and the PR Team for their care and concern. A celebration of Ernie's life will be held on Saturday, July 15 at 10:00 a.m. Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Rd., Kelowna, BC. Lawrence Zacharias will be officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Ernie's memory to the charity of your choice. Ernie's zest for life, humour and special sparkle will be dearly missed. He was a precious husband, son, brother, uncle and friend whom we will remember with love and cherish forever, including his best buddies, Cheeto and Stealth. Most closely, I have been aided by my life partner, Ernie, who has been, since our teenage years, my best and biggest booster. MISS YOU BABE A memorial service will be held in Winnipeg, Saturday, July 29 at 1:00 p.m., Worldwide Church of God, 50 Barnes St., Winnipeg, MB. Maurice Yurkiw will be officiating.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 15, 2006