Lorne Kennedy WILMER

Our dear dad, grandpa and great grandpa, Lorne Kennedy Wilmer, passed away on December 7, 2019 at the age of 91 in Nanaimo, B.C. Lorne is predeceased by his wife of 68 years, Marie and son in law Keith. He is survived by his two siblings, three children, 6 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Lorne was born on March 29, 1928 in Galt, Ontario to Ernest and Susan Wilmer. Lorne grew up in Ontario with his siblings, Norman and Susan. At a young age, he learned many skills from his father who owned a paint store. Growing up in the Depression, he knew the value of a dollar and he learned to work hard and had strong work ethics.

Lorne met his true love, Marie, as a teenager. They were married January 25, 1946. Together they had three children: David, Janice and Richard. They lived in Ontario for several years before starting their westward journey, moving next to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Lorne was a successful builder, painter, drafter and contractor.  He built various homes and apartment complexes across the western provinces.

Lorne and Marie moved to Vancouver Island in the 1970’s. Lorne and Marie spent many years living in Lantzville. They were avid skiers, gardeners, volunteers and members of the Lantzville Legion. Together they spent a lot of time with their friends, family and grandchildren: Brett, Paul, Colleen, Gayla, Jilly and Joey. In his retirement, Lorne and Marie travelled to their second home in Yuma, Arizona during the winter months. 

Lorne was skilled and versatile. There was nothing that he could not fix or build. He always enjoyed working on projects, building homes for his family and working on designs for his signature circular staircases. Lorne was also a lover of sports, dogs, singing, dancing, crossword puzzles, games and happy hour. Lorne always had an extra beer in the fridge for anyone who came by. He was a strong, kind, thoughtful and generous man. Lorne will be missed by his family and community.

Our family would like to thank the staff at Avenir Memory Care for the excellent care in his last months.

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