Bernhard "Berni" Volkmann

Berni passed peacefully at home, surrounded by the love and memories of a life well lived. He was the beloved husband of SueAnn for 57 years, loving father to Christine (Paul) and Derek, and proud grandfather to Riley, Avery, Jacqueline and Natalie. He will be fondly remembered by his nieces, nephews and extended family. He was predeceased by his sister Gertrud and her husband, Helmut.

Born in Germany, Berni immigrated to London, Ontario, at the age of 10. After attending Windsor Technical Institute, he built a 30-year career as an electronics technician with Northern Telecom. Having met Sue in Toronto, they settled in Brampton, where they raised their family. Berni coached baseball when his children were young and was always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need.

A natural problem-solver, Berni could fix just about anything with a coat hanger and duct tape. He loved taking things apart and putting them back together and enjoyed refurbishing antique telephones. His persistence, practical skills and determination to keep everything on the straight and narrow were hallmarks of his character.

Berni was a dedicated lifelong volunteer with Grace United Church and Grace Court Seniors Residence. He loved hiking the Bruce Trail as a longtime member of the Probus Hiking Group, playing mushball, and enjoying a good cigar. He also had a tremendous appreciation for food, and the Ladies Auxiliary took great pleasure in keeping him well fed — he certainly had a hollow leg!

Berni will be remembered for his generous spirit, his willingness to help others, his ingenuity and his wonderful zest for life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service and countless cherished memories, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Friends will be received on Sunday, October 25 from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Ward Funeral Home, 52 Main St. S., Brampton. A funeral service will take place on Monday, October 26 at 12:30 pm at Grace United Church, 156 Main St N, Brampton, ON.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Grace United Church would be appreciated the family.