Bernie Dogterom

June 16, 2024

In Loving Memory ~

Bernie Dogterom joined heaven's tenor section on June 16, 2024.

He was born to responsible Arnold and fun-loving Daisy Dogterom in Lethbridge, AB and joyfully spent every summer on a ranch near Pincher Creek with his beloved grandparents and eight cowboy uncles.

As a teen, Bernie enjoyed friends, sports, and music, excelling as a hockey player and singer.

Wanting to grow in his Christian faith, Bernie studied at Prairie Bible Institute, Three Hills, after finishing High School. During his time there, he met Joanne, whom he married in 1958. In their early years, the couple lived in Vernon, Calgary and Edmonton, where Bernie completed his accounting designation while starting a family.

Bernie enjoyed several years of accounting work, first at the University of Alberta, then with the University of Lethbridge.

Appreciating the milder BC weather and family relationships, Bernie took an accounting job with Salmon Arm School District in 1975, where he retired as Secretary Treasurer in 1998 at the age of 63.

Over the years, Bernie found purpose and joy in helping with music and leadership at Shuswap Community Church, running marathons, taking long bike rides, working out at the gym, singing with Shuswap Men's Chorus, gardening, reading, learning to paint, travelling and camping with Joanne, helping with Mexico missions and Okanagan Gleaners, spending time with his daughters and their families in Calgary.

Bernie is remembered by family and friends as a genuine, faithful and positive person who finished his journey with thankfulness and integrity.

He is survived by his wife, Joanne, sister Cornelia (Ray), daughters Jolene (Dave), Denive (Cliff) and grandchildren Taylor (Juli), Jackson, Hilary (Caleb), Mckenna (Jacob) and Cole.

A celebration of Bernie's Life will take place June 30, 3pm at Shuswap Community Church.