WONNENBERG, Clarence

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Our father, Clarence Wonnenberg, passed away peacefully in Kelowna, BC, on February 9, 2022, in his 97th year. Born May 20, 1925, in Woolchester, Alberta to Elizabeth and August Wonnenberg, he grew up on the family farm with his parents, three brothers (Reinhardt, Ben, and Fred), and two sisters (Evelyn and Leona). He is survived by his brother Fred of Kamloops, BC, who will reach 100 years in November.

While touring with a carnival around 1945 in Kelowna, Clarence met and married Rose Schleppe. Together, they had five children: Reginald, Faye (decd.), infant June (decd.), Gail, and Janet, as well as nine grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

In his early years, Clarence logged in the Heffley Lake area and was made Supervisor over multiple logging sites. During this time, he was a Scout Leader and Hockey Coach for the youngsters in the camps where they lived. In 1964, they bought their first new home in Kelowna and settled there.

In the mid-70s, Clarence made a career change to become a successful Realtor, and later moved to Victoria, BC where he pursued his career and started his own brokerage, “Wills and Wonnenberg Real Estate.” It was around this time that he married Ruby Reid and retired to Kelowna, enjoying time gardening, golfing, and fishing.

Since 2000, Clarence continued to engage himself in new pursuits including XC skiing, biking, and bowling high scores, all while visually impaired. During league play at the Capri, he met Vivian Buckle, and they enjoyed the last 16 years of his life playing many spirited games of crib together after dinners out (he was especially fond of Perkins!).

As was his determined wish, Clarence remained independent in his own apartment until the last. He passed peacefully with close family at his side. We will dearly miss his enthusiasm for a good joke, a competitive game, and endearing fondness for thoughtful conversations.

Our family wish to thank the many hard-working nurses and doctors at Kelowna General Hospital for their compassion, kindness, and care.

As per Clarence’s wishes, no public funeral or services will be held.

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