Tribute

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Victor Ehmann on October 25, 2024 at Maple Bay, B.C. after a long illness. As he hoped, Vic died at home with loved ones beside him. To be surrounded by people was fitting as that was a defining feature of the way he lived. Everyone who knew him marvelled at his seemingly boundless energy to entertain, care for and be with others. It is unlikely most won’t first think of his constant smile and capacity to keep on giving.

Vic was born in Kelowna in 1952 and grew up an excellent student and athlete, starring in football and track, being recruited by several US universities.

After graduating from Immaculata High School, he moved to Victoria to attend UVic and promptly fell in love with the west coast. After transferring to Simon Fraser University to study Criminology and Sociology, he developed a lifelong interest in the philosophy of American Pragmatism. This philosophy came to guide much of his moral and ethical thinking and behaviour. He readily referred to it in the many thoughtful discussions that he had with friends and family (and any naïve political door knockers willing to learn something)!

Instead of applying to Graduate School, he lovingly took on the task of learning how to run his father’s Kelowna-based business, Ehmann Printing. Through his wonderful social skills and acute mind, he built the company into one of the largest regional printers in western Canada. He remained with the family business after Vic Senior’s death until he retired. In 2018, Vic was finally able to fulfill his desire to return to Vancouver Island.

Vic had two children, Julia and Danielle with his first wife Val Zdralek. He later met Helen Terhljan, with whom he remained for 32 years until her untimely death in 2022.

Vic was exuberant. He was passionate about music, travel, motorcycles, boating, scuba diving, learning, ideas and discussions but, most of all he was truly a people person. Compassionate and caring, he loved deeply. Perhaps nothing captures Vic better than how he obviously loved nothing more than being with family and his many friends for parties, BBQ’s or for no reason at all except to be together. His generosity to others is legendary. His enthusiastic love of life, decency and sensitivity both uplifted and comforted all who walked with him along the various paths of his life. He also maintained friendships over the long term – especially with his Saskatchewan cousins with whom he shared a too often futile love of the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Vic is survived by his daughters Julia and Danielle, brothers Tom and Bill, and grandchildren Cashton, Veda, Knox and Ever.

Special recognition must go to daughter Julia, supported by her partner Adam, for the comfort and care provided during Vic’s last months. Also, brother Tom, long time friend Cal Bridge, brother-in-law Steven Terhljan and sister-in-law Caroline Ehmann were of enormous assistance during that trying, but also precious time.

Vic’s funeral will be held at St. Edward’s Church, 2085 Maple Bay Road, at 1:00 PM Wednesday, November 20, 2024. A gathering to celebrate Vic’s life will take place at 6528 Osprey Place after the service. Like his home, this celebration of his life is open to all. Bring your stories and perhaps sip on Vic’s favourite drink as you laugh, honour and remember a very very good man.