Ernest Eugen Faessler, late of Surrey BC, passed away peacefully in his sleep, May 26, 2022, at the age of 98.
Ernie was born in Fern Ridge BC. His parents, Ernest & Josephine who immigrated from Switzerland, homesteaded in the Cariboo with their 8 children, Ernie, Elsie, Martha, Court, Lou, Agnes, and Rudy.
At the age of 19 he joined the First Canadian Army Dental Corps traveling through Holland and was among the Canadian soldiers credited with liberating Holland and pushing the Germans out of the Netherlands.
A smart dresser, he seldom was seen without a fresh pressed shirt, tie, shined shoes and his signature hat. He was a gentleman. Soft spoken with a playful glint in his eye he always had a friendly word for everyone and usually, a story. He served for over 50 years with the Knights of Columbus holding various positions and the Royal Canadian Legion for over 45 years.
He loved the outdoors and liked to fish but his real passion, was painting. Throughout his life he had a love of the arts and created many beautiful pieces of art. At the age of 82 he published his first book “Barns: From Our pioneers – Builders of a Nation” and a second book in 2012 “Incredible Pioneer Stories”. Proceeds from both books were donated to Leukemia and Lymphoma research.
Decorated with 1935-1945 War Service Medal, Volunteer Service Medal, The Defence Medal, France/Germany Star Action Medal, Governor Generals Medal - Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, Patriotic Service Medal, Hollands Sixty Anniversary Medal and 2007 Community Leader Award
Ernie was predeceased by his wife Jean (2005) and his grandson Michael in 2010 as well as his siblings Elsie (1981) Martha (2008) Court (2020) Lou (2002).
He is survived by his son Rick, daughters Andrea (John) and April (John) and his foster daughter Zendi (Jackie Andrew), 9 grandchildren and 11 great grand children. Ernie also leaves his brother Rudy, sister Agnes, special companion Isabel Simpson, her daughter Kelly (Rod) as well as many nieces, nephews, and friends.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 3, at 11:00 am at Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish (10460 139th Street, Surrey) with burial at The Gardens of Gethsemani.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to The Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
May the stars carry your sadness away
May the flowers fill your heart with beauty
May hope forever wipe away your tears
And, above all, may silence make you strong
Chief Dan George