Tribute

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dad, Grandpa, and Great Grandpa Ken Toepfer on August 16^th, 2022 after battling COPD and several other health complications at the age of 84.

He fought a courageous battle till the very end.  He was predeceased by his wife Esther Toepfer in 2006.  Ken will be fondly remembered by his loving family including 2 sons Brent (Marigje) and Spencer (Theresa), grandchildren Mike, Lindsay (Chantal), Bailey (Jordan), Caitlyn, and great granddaughter Sloane.  In Red Deer, sister Joyce Smela and many nieces and nephews.

Dad was born in Alix, Alberta to Ralph and Helen “Nellie” Toepfer (nee Findlater).   In 1959 he married Esther Gruhlke.  Together they followed her young teaching career to many remote places in Alberta and BC, ending up in Red Deer.  Dad worked as a tax assessor for the City of Red Deer before moving to Osoyoos in 1972 to operate the Safari Beach Motel.  He spent many years as a cement finisher at the Osoyoos Ready Mix and later worked at the Desert Park Race Track and at the Oasis Campsite.

Dad served on the board of the Osoyoos & District Recreation Commission and volunteered with Meals on Wheels.  He liked his hockey and spent several years coaching various minor hockey teams at the Sunbowl Arena.

In his spare time, he enjoyed stamp collecting, puzzles, and hockey.  He spent many hours watching the Osoyoos Coyotes hockey team and was a season ticket holder for several years.

Thank you to the Nurses and Doctors at the SOGH in Oliver for their compassionate care.

Private family service to be held at a later date.

Condolences and tributes may be directed to the family by visiting www.nunes-pottinger.com