Vernon Ernest Bettcher

On April 25, 1934 in Drumheller, Alberta, Vernon Ernest Bettcher was born with a never give up spirit. Even in infancy life wasn’t fair or easy and Vern’s tenacious attitude sprouted. Nurtured by a wonderful loving family Vern grew up with hard working days on the farm. Nights were filled with devotions and songs accompanied by each family member playing their instrument. Fun was never too far and happened when and where ever possible. There were various versions of hockey, wrestling, tobogganing and swimming. His formative school years have many tales of mischief and shenanigans keeping teachers and parents on their toes. Vern may have been trying to get the attention of his wife-to-be, Enith, while having some fun. Vern often reminisced about these times and how happy he was to have grown up on the farm.

The work on the farm was the base for one of Vern’s many talents, fixing things. He gained more experience working for Uncle Bill however things change and Calgary became home. He started pouring cement steps for new housing followed by a long career with AGT that took him to retirement. Vern worked a myriad of positions from climbing poles and splicing cable in man holes to managing crews and teaching at SAIT. Vern never really quit work. After retirement he was busy with many different projects typically always assisting others.

The musical talents of his childhood did not fade, Vern enjoyed his time traveling and singing with the Berg Chorale. He sang in the choir and also maintained the bus, some of his favorite things to do. Vern also enjoyed his many beloved years assisting churches. From spiritual support, ministry and Bible studies to physical support, construction and facilities work he was always happy to lend a hand. Vern and Enith have hosted countless boarders, visitors and meetings in their home through the years.

Devoted father, Vern encouraged his son’s talent for hockey and enjoyed traveling with Tim for various hockey tournaments and events. He also encouraged his daughter, Candy, to play an instrument at an early age a skill she enjoys today. As a Dad Vern taught fiscal responsibility in various ways the most prevalent being if it’s broken just fix it. As such during his children’s teenage years his garage became the workspace for many a project.

Vern’s knowledge of fixing and building was vast and shared with anyone who asked. His preference was measure twice cut once however there were always those times when square corners were hard to find or that elusive part that had to be created on the spot, so compromises had to happen. Vern was great at noodling out how to accomplish these tasks. “Just need to figure this part out and we’ll be laughing” was a common phrase. Vern’s actions during his life showed his priorities – God, Family, Work & Hockey. One of his recent sayings was God had given him overtime.

Vern was met in heaven on Wednesday, July 1, 2020 by his parents, Ernest and Ella; brother, Eldon; sister, Manetta; brother-in-law, Morris; father-in-law, Chris; and mother-in-law, Millie. Vern is lovingly remembered by his wife of 63 years, Enith; sister, Gloria; brother, Dwight (Sandra); sister-in-law, Rose Marie; brother-in-law, Allen (Marlene); and two of the luckiest people in the world son Tim (Donna-Lee) and daughter Candy (Bruce), granddaughters, Krystle (Chays), Stefanie (Aaron) and Hayley; grandsons, Thayer and Logan; great-granddaughter, Mya; and great-grandson, Jayden; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Vern’s family would like to thank Brenda & Kevin Anderson for their loving support.

Vern’s family would also like to thank Dr. Millar and the wonderful staff at St. Theresa’s Place for their compassion, care and genuine concern for Vern during the past few years.

Vern Bettcher is greatly missed and Forever Loved.