Vernon Ernest Bettcher
July 1st, 2020
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.
Messages:
Vern was the only great uncle I ever knew. He also found a way to make everyone smile! He found the good in everything. I remember him making real ice cream for us with his canister. The last birthday I celebrated with him was his 80th & that’s something I will always remember & cherish❤️ Every time I went to Calgary, I made sure to stop by or take them for a meal at their favourite place (I can never remember the name). They will forever be my aunt Vern & uncle Enith! Really going to miss that man! Love always, Ash
Our Dear Sweet Friend - Words can't begin to tell you our sadness to hear of Vern's passing...So many wonderful memories flood our minds...You both displayed such strength and He was such an example of a Husband with the great love he had for you...You both gave unconditional love and acceptance...If we could we would give you the biggest hug...Holding you in our prayers and in our hearts until we meet again...We have this hope and you both shared that with so many...Well done Good and Faithful Servant...Rest in Peace Vern...Thank you for the Memories
Enith, Tim & Candace Though our words can do little, we hope our thoughts and prayers will support you at this time. Sorry for your loss. Hopkins Family - Walter, Joan, Dwayne, Randy & Bev - 47th Street Neighbor Forest Heights)
Dear Enith and family, I am praying for you in this time when you consider and celebrate the life of Vern. Vern had a deep love for God that was evident in his love for people and his love for the church. I am so thankful to have known him. I remember the many conversations that we had and the times we laughed about the crazy things of life. I am reminded of Psalm 116:15 that states, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints." Vern is seeing what he believed and what he proclaimed with his words and his life. May God give you His comfort and strength in these times. Pastor Harry
Dear Enith, So many memories come flooding back as I remember all the blessings that you and Vern have been to me and my family over these many years. Your example to us of truly being the hands and feet of Jesus always available to help in every way, to encourage tirelessly and to reach out to share the hope that we have when we surrender our life to our Lord and Saviour. Enith I remember when Fred went home to be with the Lord you reached out and took me to a very special luncheon where we met the author of Footprints so appropriate to be reminded when we are going through those hard times that Jesus carries us.Time spent with you was so very meaningful. You and Vern were God's special team. I know it is difficult right now but I also know that our God is faithful and He never leaves us or forsakes us but will be right by your side with His arm around you every step of these next days. You are a precious friend and I look forward to the day when we are allowed to give each other a big hug. Love you, Vickie
My deepest sympathy to you Enith your family during this time . Vern was a good man who was dedicated to his family and the Lord. This was illustrated in many ways in his life. May you be comforted during this sorrowful time of grief.
Enith, Cindy, Tim and family. We dearly love you both, and visiting with both Vern & you (Enith), there were never ending stories of his adventures in life. It was always a highlight of our day. What an amazing blessing to have gotten to know both of you. We miss seeing you both and look forward to seeing Vern again in Heaven, and you when we are once again allowed to. We pray for you daily. With love Greg & Dianna
Hi Enith, We were so sorry to hear of Vern's passing. He was such a nice man & any time we saw him he'd have a nice smile & we enjoyed talking with him. I (Julia) always remember being invited to your home with my parents, Ernie & Margaret (along with others) shortly after we moved to Calgary from Montreal. You two were always such gracious hosts. Our prayers are with you as you go through the days to come & for your family too. Sending hugs to you.
My sincere condolences to all the family on Vern's passing. Enith, you and Vern have been such a tremendous blessing to so many people. Together, you both volunteered tirelessly to help those in need. You really are a light and the hands of God on earth. I remember coming to your home many times for Friday night youth club. We always felt so welcomed there as we enjoyed the games and great food you prepared. May God comfort you and give you peace at this time. Many blessings to you. God bless Vern. It is an honor to have known him.
Deepest sympathy to you Enith & family. The Lord knows our sorrow & HE promises never to leave us. You both have been a huge testimony of love & kindness at Grace Baptist. Praying for you. Heaven is a beautiful City of Gold God is preparing for those of us who love Him. Let’s be encouraged by that & look forward to a great reunion with our loved ones Vern & Walter. Love you, Enith & Candy. Elsie Kerber.
My condolences to you Enith and family. I remember Vern when he volunteered at the extension building at Grace Baptist Church where he put in many hours of construction. He was always up in mood and attitude even if he was up in years as a senior. He was very sociable and could relate to people from any culture or walk of life. He will be missed but not forgotten.
Hi Enith! It has been a long since I had contact with the family. But want to remind you how much I appreciated and enjoyed Vern during our time at Forest Heights way back in the late 60s and early 70s. Vern was a wonderful resource for this young pastor. To this day, I vividly remember our many late night conversations about ministry and life. I hope this finds you well in the midst of everything. Thanks for what you and Vern brought to my life. Fondly, Reg (Bibby)
I’m deeply sorry for our loss! Keep trusting in god, he will comfort you. We will soon be together again, love always. Prayers, Gloria & family
My brother Vern was a mentor to me all of my life. He taught me a lot about life as a kid growing up as well as an adult. We had many wonderful times growing up on the farm and even though we had very little money we always had fun in a variety of ways. I will always be grateful for having Vern as my brother and know that he is now with the rest of the Bettcher family in the presence of Jesus. Our deepest sympathy for Enith, Tim, and Candy during this difficult time. We love you all and so does Jesus. Dwight & Sandra
So sorry for your loss, wish I had magical words that would make it all easier - try to remember all the happy times with him. love you
Dear Enith, you may not remember me, but we worked together at AGT as operators in the 50’s! We lost track of each other through the years. I lost my husband, Gordon, two years ago. I am so sorry for your loss of Vern, it is never easy to lose a loved one. Please accept my “sincere sympathies “ to you and your family! Thinking of you, Doreen Thomas