June 17, 2018
Otmar Laehrm passed away peacefully with his family by his side June 17, 2018 at the age of 93 years. He will be remembered and sadly missed by his children Heimo (Ingrid) Laehrm and Gerlinde Havers; grandkids Christopher (Nicky) Havers and their children Isabella and Max and Adrienne (Jason) Havers and their child Anika; and brother-in-law Peter Kamper. He was predeceased by his wife Gertrude (2005).
Otmar came to Canada with his family in 1954 from Graz, Austria. Gertrude, his wife, missed the mountains of Austria and after 2 years in Winnipeg they drove west to settle in Vancouver. He was a mechanical engineer by profession specializing in cranes and bridge designs while working for Boeing, Heedie International, and Western Bridge. Later he went independent forming his own company OFL Engineering. He loved to travel, camp, and work with tools.
Later in his retirement, his interests turned to baking, cooking, smoking salmon, and becoming a connoisseur of 'spirits'. Otmar was also an active member of the Austrian Vancouver Club, serving as president for several terms and participating in their bowling league. Summerland became his home in 2003 and he embraced life in the Okanagan. Here he volunteered at Recope and joined the bowling league, badminton club, and the 'Golden Dragons' dragon boating. His home was always open for company and he loved serving meals and providing refreshments to all his friends. He lived life to the fullest.
A special thanks to Dr. Bull and the wonderful home support ladies who made him smile each day.
A Celebration of Life will be held July 29, 2018 in Summerland. The venue and time will be confirmed.
Condolences may be directed to the family through providencefuneralhomes.com 250-494-7752.
Providence Funeral Homes