Bernard Frederick Chmilar Obituary in Grande Prairie at Oliver's Funeral Home & Crematorium

Obituaries

Bernard Frederick Chmilar

December 19, 1946 - March 15, 2025

Obituary For Bernard Frederick Chmilar

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Bernie Chmilar on March 15, 2025, at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital.

Bernie was born in Berwyn, AB on December 19, 1946, he lived his life defined by hard work, family devotion and a passion for farming.

Bernie grew up in Berwyn, AB where he completed his schooling. He then went on to Fairview College where he earned an honor's degree in agriculture. After finishing college, Bernie briefly worked in the oil field and it was at this time that he met Kerry, his beloved wife of 56 years. The couple got married and settled in Grande Prairie, AB in 1969, where they raised their three children: Lori, Gerald, and Steve.

Bernie's professional journey was marked by ambition and versatility. He worked as a salesperson for R. Angus before founding his own construction company. Despite his busy work life, Bernie travelled to Berwyn every weekend, for 21 years, to work at his childhood farm. His passion for agriculture eventually led him to purchase his own farmland near Grande Prairie and he continued with the oil field construction company, which led him to then become an oil field consultant that allowed him to spend more time with his family.

He was a man of many talents and excellent work ethic. Besides being a farmer, Bernie excelled in carpentry and mechanics. Known for his ability to fix or build anything and was often asked for advice, he was a trusted friend and neighbor who always went out of his way to help others.

Family was at the heart of Bernie’s life. He shared a close bond with his children and took immense pride in their achievements. His life blossomed with the arrival of five grandchildren, three grandsons in November of 2000 and later two granddaughters who brought new light into his life. Bernie spent countless hours teaching them practical skills like driving and machinery repair while cheering them on at hockey games, volleyball matches, and dance recitals.

In retirement, Bernie found fulfillment as a member of the Mighty Peace Vintage Tractor Club, restoring tractors and maintaining the farm he cherished. He and Kerry also enjoyed travelling together, creating treasured memories. Their marriage was a cornerstone of respect and stability that served as an enduring example for their children and grandchildren.

Bernie's legacy of hard work, kindness and wisdom will live on through those who knew and loved him. He was respected for his commonsense values.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Keegan and the nursing staff at the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital for their care.

A life well lived leaves and indelible mark on all it touches. Bernie’s memory will forever be a blessing.

It is difficult to sum 78 years of living into a few brief paragraphs, but it is clear that Bernie’s life was a tapestry woven from threads of love, hard work, and dedication to his family in community. His impact will be felt for years to come. Bernie had many more things he wanted to accomplish; however, his earthly journey has come to an end.

Bernie is survived by his devoted wife Kerry, sons Gerald (Monica), Steve (Ingrid), grandchildren Ian (Sierra), Evan, Thomas, Hayley and Reanna. Brother-in-law Ivor Palser.

He was predeceased by his precious daughter Lori Brix in 2019 and sister Shirley Palser in 2015.

At Bernie’s request, there will be no funeral.

Any donations can be made to the heart and stroke foundation.

www.heartandstroke.ca/

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Condolences

April 18, 2025

Brian Grant

Very long time buddy who will surely be missed That grin keep you guessing what he might be up too with his great sense of humor. Work always on his mind along with his family and friends. Condolences to family and i sure will never forget the great times.
April 13, 2025

Phyllis Tropak

Kerry & family our sincere condolences. Far too many Chmilar's leaving the family tree. I recently lost my brother Alvin Chmilar in October, followed by sister Delores (Chmilar) Wiwad in December, nephew Norm Winiarski in March (Virginia's only child). Now we get news that Bernie has passed. Mom & Dad (Stella & Walter Chmilar) loved visiting you & Bernie. Thinking of you. Richard & Phyllis (Chmilar) Tropak
April 07, 2025

Derek Young

A sad phone call to Kerry, to say Bernie had passed mar 15 th! I first met Bernie and Kerry in 1974 when we moved to Go to work for R Angus , we were in the sales dept together and travelled together on numerous occasions enjoying all that the beautiful country had to offer. I took Bernie up in my plane on many occasions to scout the area! I will truly miss you my friend! Your old bud, Derek Young. Slava Ukraine !
April 03, 2025

Bonnie Kennedy

So sorry Kerry....my heart hurts for you and your family...
April 03, 2025

Helen Metituk

Kerry and Family I am so sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this very sad time. Praying that fond memories will give you strength during this difficult time
April 02, 2025

Lori Shoaf

I wish to send sincere condolences to Kerry and all family members in the passing of their loved one, Bernie. It is never an easy time of transition but there will be comfort in reflecting on a full life well-lived which touched so many hearts.
April 01, 2025

Dr. Luci Skaken

Deepest sympathy and condolences to Kerry and family. My prayers are with you. I have known Bernie and Kerry for over 30 years and feel blessed to count them as true friends. Over the years I have enjoyed many interesting and enlightening conversations with Bernie and valued his knowledgeable and caring advice. I've known Bernie to be an exceptional man of many talents and interests, deeply devoted to family and always ready to help a friend. He will be greatly missed. Goodbye Bernie. Luci Skaken
April 01, 2025

Roy & Marie Stark

We are so sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. Our thoughts are with you all at this sad time. Roy & Marie Stark
March 31, 2025

Lana Wagstaff

My thoughts and prayers are with you all, Aunty Kerry. May Uncle rest in peace. ♥️
March 31, 2025

Fletcher, W.

So sorry to hear of Bernie's passing! We would like to convey our sincere condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. The Fletcher Family (Anne, Bill and Scott)
March 31, 2025

Brian Lank

Condolences to the Chmilar family in the passing of Bernie. He was great man and friend to us his neighbor with whom he help in so many ways and always had good advise to pass along. We will all miss him. Rest in peace Bernie, I can see him in his new shop sorting through drawers of special tools. Brian & Norma Lank
March 28, 2025

Debra Edwards

Sincerest condolences to Kerry and family as well as all the Chmilar family. Sad to hear the news of Bernie's passing. From Debbie Edwards (Bremont), son Chad (Erin) Edwards
March 28, 2025

Debra Edwards

Sincerest condolences to Kerry and family as well as all the Chmilar family from Debbie Edwards (Bremont), son Chad (Erin) Edwards. Sad to hear of Bernie's passing.
March 28, 2025

Brenda Barker Siemon

I met Kerry and Bernie In 1980 and they have been steadfast friends for all these years. Bernie and Kerry came to Ontario in the fall of 1983 and formed a solid friendship with my Mom and Dad. Bernie was incredibly innovative and shared his knowledge and abilities with Dad. They enjoyed many hours touring the Ontario countryside. Through the years Bernie and Kerry and I have shared both joy and sorrow, laughter and heartache. When he lost his precious daughter Lori, his broken heart never mended. I will remember Bernie always as a kind and caring man who leaves behind giant footprints in the sand. Brenda Barker Siemon
March 27, 2025

Fern Mohr

Dear Kerry! So sad for you and your Family!
March 26, 2025

Faye Miller

My sincere Condolences to you Kerry and Family. 🙏
March 26, 2025

Shelly Sorensen

Sincere Condolences, my thoughts & prayers are with you all! 🙏💝 Kerry, Gerald, Steven & families, I am so sorry to see this sad news.
March 26, 2025

Joanne Ingalls

Farewell for now Bernie! It has been a pleasure knowing you and Kerry since 1972. We had many good visits, lots of laughs, and some darn good conversations. He was knowledgeable, he kept himself educated and stayed very informed on political forums. He kept his farm immaculate, even the gardens were absolutely polished. It was a joy to be there. It's such an emotional time to say goodbye to a man that thought the world of his family, a man that made a difference and a man that loved the nature in all he knew. Rest now, you will have no more pain and you can farm forever in a perfect place. God bless you. 💙🙏🏼

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