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Gilbert passed away peacefully in the company of his daughter and son at the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home in Kamloops, BC on December 20, 2010, at the age of 85 years.

Gilbert enjoyed good health right up to December 19, 2010, when he took a fall and struck his head that resulted in a concussion that ultimately lead to his death.  

Gilbert was born to Steve and Gizella Bede, in Doveny, Hungary.  In 1936, Gilbert along with his mother, brothers and sister immigrated to Canada, settling in Revelstoke B.C. where the family was reunited with their father.

Gilbert attended school in Revelstoke, leaving in grade 10 to help financially assist his family.  He entered service as wiper on the CPR in 1942, launching his 46-year career as a fireman and locomotive engineer.

In 1943, he volunteered for service in WW II, serving with the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary’s) from 1943 – 1946.

His career with the CPR took him to Vernon, BC where he had the good fortune to be introduced to Dorothy Schmidt.  Gilbert and Dorothy were married for 53-years until Dorothy’s passing in November 2006.  Dorothy and Gilbert created a home in Revelstoke, where they raised their family.  In 1981, Dorothy and Gilbert moved to Sicamous, B.C. Gilbert retired from the CPR in 1988.

Gilbert will be lovingly remembered by two children, daughter Sharon (Murray McDonald) of Kelowna; beloved granddaughter, Breanna McDonald, who was the joy of Gilbert’s life and son Gilbert Jr. of Kelowna and; sister Gizella Henyecz and brother James Bede of Revelstoke, B. C. and many nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his infant son, parents and two brothers Steve Jr. and Alexander Bede.

Gilbert was a devoted member of the Anglican Church. His funeral service was held from St. John’s Anglican Church, Salmon Arm on Wednesday, December 29th, at 11:00 AM, with the Reverend Laura Hermakin officiating. If so desired, contributions in memory of Gilbert may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation Donations Department 1212 West Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6H 3V2.

The family would like to thank Colleen and Ted Hutchison, the Breitkreuz family and his walking buddies for care and friendship; Dr. Beech, the staff at the Shuswap General and Royal Inland General Hospitals, and a special thanks to the staff of the Marjorie Willoughby Snowden Memorial Hospice Home in Kamloops, BC. 

Online condolences can be sent through Gilbert’s obituary at www.bowersfuneralservice.com

Arrangements are in the care of Bowers Funeral Home and Crematorium, Salmon Arm.



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