February 26, 1954 - February 14, 2020
It is with shattered hearts that we announce the passing of Ern Quiding of Castlegar, BC. Ern passed away suddenly at his home on February 14, 2020.
Ern was born February 26, 1954 to Don & Mary Quiding of Blueberry Creek. He grew up in Blueberry, experiencing the most idyllic childhood, playing with friends in a safe community from dawn until dusk. If his Mom couldn't find him, she knew he'd be at his other home up the street at the Michelson's. During his childhood his parents grew strawberries to sell so Ern could literally say, as the Beatles #1 fan, that he grew up in "Strawberry Fields."
Ern attended SHSS and graduated in 1972. Those who knew Ern would say his best subject was "Socialization 101" but, as a curious student, he excelled in all subjects and remained steadfast in his belief of life long learning. He was talented in the arts, particularly painting, drawing and design.
One of Ern's first jobs as a young boy was tending to the neighbourhood chickens. He later worked at Safeway, Stedmans, and held many positions with Sears in Castlegar, Calgary and Medicine Hat before committing to a career at Cominco where he proudly retired from in 2014. During his semi-retirement Ern became an invaluable window blind installer for Oglow's. Ern & Carol were known in the industry as the dream team and they treasured all the relationships that they made with their customers.
For most of his life, one of Ern's passions was music. He loved listening to all genres but was a rock & roller at heart. His knowledge of music was beyond any scope of comprehension. Many would try to stump him on facts and trivia regarding any and all things music and much to their astonishment, he would always have the correct answer. Ern cherished his time with his band mates and couldn't wait until their next "jam session". Ern was a beautiful guitar player and serenaded the love of his life Carol, on a daily basis. The strumming of his guitar could be heard at all hours from all corners of their home.
Ern loved life and family. One of Ern's proudest roles was being the most loving Dad any child could have. To Ern, his "Tootsie Roll" Kristen and "Tiger" Derek were his world and their bonds were unbreakable. He was always there for his children and they knew they could always count on their Dad's endless devotion. Ern's support, advice and gifted sense of guiding his children through life was always welcomed by Kristen and Derek however they always joked that sometimes Dad's advice was extended to prolonged conversations and their comeback was, "Dad, you're lecturing again!"
Ern endured incredible heartbreak in 2002 when his son Derek died in a vehicle accident. It was the love and support from family and friends that guided him through the tough years that followed.
"Grampa" became Ern's new favourite role as he doted over his amazing grandchildren Daphne, Greyson and Callum. He beamed with absolute delight when the grandkids soon shared his love of music and guitar playing. They would spend summer afternoons on the deck learning to strum and hold a beat. Other days would be filled with adventures like finding pirate treasures on Zuckerberg's Island, having rock skipping contests at Syringa or swimming at the Millennium ponds. The days would end with night time tuck-ins and story telling. Grampa was a big kid at heart.
Ern will be missed immensely by his wife Carol (Oglow), daughter Kristen and son-in-law Devin Lang, granddaughter Daphne, grandsons Greyson & Callum, sister Sharon McCulloch (Fen Fen), brother Butch Quiding, nephew Shane McCulloch as well as his extended Oglow family, Tom (Maureen), David (Norbina), Gail (Garry), Ken (Connie) and many nieces, nephews, cousins and "Bro's." He was Uncle Ern to many, "Auntie Oonie" to some and he was a person everybody looked up to and always felt 100% better after his hugs.
He was predeceased by his loving son Derek Quiding, parents Don & Mary Quiding, in-laws Betty & Paul Oglow and his longest childhood buddy, Lester Michelson.
Ern was a man of many words. His meaning behind his words stood strong and tall. He always spoke of peace and harmony among his peers. He had an exceptional ability to see both sides of a situation and had understanding and compassion for everyone that came across his path. Ern's encouragement to each and every one of us was everlasting.
Ern's Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In Ern's memory, donations may be made to Supercat Studios in Castlegar, an amazing environment for children to learn and express their love of music. Donations will provide music education to children who are unable to afford this experience. Mailing: Box 167, Salmo, BC V0G 1Z0 / etransfer: supercatstudios@gmail.com
Carol, Kristen and family wish to extend a heartfelt thank you for all the outpouring of love and support that has been shown as we all try to accept this great loss. We are grateful for the Castlegar Firefighter First Responders and the BC Ambulance Attendants for their efforts. The Castlegar Funeral Chapel in care of arrangements.
Rock On, Ern!