THULIEN, Kermit E.
1917 — 2014
Kermit Thulien passed peacefully into the presence of his Lord earlier this spring. It would have been his 97th birthday this week.
Kermit was a resident of Veteran for more than 63 years. He then retired to Lions Bay, B.C., in 1980, where he and his wife Jean spent 17 years before moving to nearby Vancouver for the past 16 years.
Dad enjoyed his family and home, and with loving care from family, was able to stay in his home for 96 years.
A lovely memorial was held in his honour at the Mount Pleasant Funeral Home in Vancouver.
Kermit was a man who possessed a quiet and sure faith. He was a devoted husband and father, a successful businessman and an active member of the community. He owned and operated a farm implement and automobile dealership in Veteran for more than 35 years, preceded by some years as a grain buyer/elevator agent in his early 20s.
Kermit served in the local church in Veteran, as mayor and councillor for many years, as coach for young men’s hockey, and in many other aspects of community life. Yet, Dad still made time for many trips and countless family drives and picnics in the surrounding area, the Nose Hills, etc.
After retiring to Lions Bay, he remained active in the community church and was asked to serve on the board of variance of the village for a number of years, where his sound judgment was valued.
Kermit was also a longtime member of the Gideon’s Society, placing Bibles in hotels, schools, hospitals and doctor’s offices as invited.
One would have to look long and hard to find a person with such a generous spirit, and with grace and kindness in combination as Kermit possessed. He worked by the adage that a deal is only a good deal when it’s good for both parties. And often in business, he gave the benefit of the doubt to the customer.
Dad was respected by all who knew him, loved by those who knew him well, and loved very much by those who knew him best.
He’s greatly missed by his beloved wife of almost 69 years, Jean, his daughter Janice Fawcett (Alan) of Edmonton, son Cameron (Jane) of Vancouver, son Gavin (Jann) of Ottawa, and sister Lorraine Gilbert (Jim) of Abbotsford, B.C.
As one who always enjoyed his garden and his home, it is a special comfort to know that now Dad is truly home, and we have the joyous prospect of being together again in a coming day.
Kermit had a life well-lived and was an admirable yet humble man, and an example to many.
Card of thanks
The family would like to sincerely thank the many who have sent tributes, cards and condolences since his passing. It’s deeply appreciated.