We Remember

BROZ, Karl

—

It occurs to all of us who knew and loved him just how weak a few words are in describing a wonderful man and a life well lived. But we will try.

Karl (“With a K!” as he used to say) Broz was born in Austria on June 22, 1934. He passed away peacefully surrounded by family on September 18, 2022 in Kelowna, BC.

As a young man in turbulent times he took great joy in hiking and skiing in his beloved mountains when he wasn’t apprenticing as a painter.

It was in Austria he met and married the love of his life, Gertraud–who would become his wife of 67 years, and together they set off on a new adventure in Chicago where they started their family and new lives together.

His family grew and loved him for the kind and caring man he was. Daughters Jeanette (Roger) and Maria, grandchildren Emma, Natalie, Ashley, and Curtis, will remember him always, and Karl will continue to walk in our hearts.

On a trip to Canada he fell in love with the Purcell and Rocky Mountains, and shortly thereafter the family moved to the Columbia Valley near Radium Hot Springs, BC. It was there that he would build his dream home – the “Berghof” (‘mountain place’). This also would become the name of his painting and decorating company.

While he worked hard and was successful, what you do for money is not necessarily who you are.

At his core, Karl was an artist. His dexterous hands carved wonderful furniture and cabinetry, and he eventually discovered a passion for carving indigenous-style masks – they are mesmerizing and could grace the walls of a museum, he was that talented.

While his artistic and business talents were notable, he was also curious, funny, intelligent and compassionate. When asked how he was, he would always reply “Outstanding!” And he was!

A lifetime outdoorsman, he loved not only his family but also life itself and the great things that are so much a part of it – friends, good food, good wine, good company, nice cars, Lee Valley tools, and being a great Opa to his grandchildren, who loved him beyond measure.

So few words to describe such a great and loving man. They will have to do.

He will be a laughing brother to the beautiful ravens and mountain lions and bears in his soul, and his youthful smile as he joins them will be everlasting. He will now truly rest, free to dream forever dreams of his loving wife, children and family, written on his memory with beautiful golden thread.

At his request there will be no service, a private gathering for the family will be held at a later date.

To remember Karl please consider a donation to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.

If you wish to send a condolence, post photos, or share a memory, please scroll down the page to the area called “Condolences”.

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Nature Conservancy of Canada Link: www.natureconservancy.ca

 


 


Condolences

  • Clayton and Helene Hack says:
    September 23, 2022 at 5:00 pm

    Gerda and Family:
    A condolence message alone seems so inadequate for the life of a such a great friend. Karl was always upbeat with that big smile whenever I saw him. This included the special times with you and him at the hospital. We know he has gone on to his special reward and his suffering here is over. God Bless. Clayton and Helene Hack.

    Reply
  • Janet and Jamie Scholz says:
    September 24, 2022 at 11:20 am

    Dear Gerta, Jeanette, Maria and Families,
    We are so very sorry for your loss. Karl was a wonderful person and he will be greatly missed. We feel very honoured and so blessed to have been included as one of Karl’s many friends and that friendship will always be cherished. We will never forget the kindness that Karl and Gerta shared with us, their great company and hospitality and Karl’s special magic on his barbecue.
    We will never forget our dear friend Karl.
    We are thinking of all of Karl’s family at this sad time and you are in our prayers. God be with you.
    With our Love and heartfelt Sympathy, Janet and Jamie.

    Reply
  • Margaret and Steve Tan says:
    September 24, 2022 at 5:04 pm

    Dearest Gerta and family, our deepest condolences to you all for your loss. Karl will be missed deeply. We will always cherish the times spent with him and admire his loving spirit and friendship. Our hugs and love to your entire family and please know we are here for you at this difficult time. With much love from Steve & Margaret

    Reply
  • Veronica.Hickey says:
    October 1, 2022 at 4:18 pm

    Karl was one of a kind man. All who were privileged to be his friend will miss his smile and jovial nature. A man of many talents who brought laughter and kindnes to the “Cove”
    Farewell Karl and God’’s speed. Keep
    On laughing and mover stop
    Being “Outstanding “ the Hickey Family “

    Reply
  • Herb and Helga Matis says:
    August 17, 2023 at 4:55 pm

    We will never ever forget the good times at Whiteswan Provincial Park in BC and the visits to the residence at Radium Hot Springs. . Such down to earth people. I can stiil clearly see the big stuffed Polar Bear that was standing in the entrance to the living room. Gerta, if you are still alive, our deepest sympathy goes out to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in these difficult times. . Sincereky, Herb and Helga Matis

    Reply
  • Herb Matis says:
    August 17, 2023 at 5:07 pm

    So sorry to hear of Karl’s passing. Our deepest sympathy goes out to you Gerta and family. Will Never forget the good times at Whiteswan Provincial Park and the visits to the house in Radium. Sincerely our thoughts and prayers are with you all, Herb and Helga Matis

    Reply

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