Tribute

Jerome Riederer passed away suddenly on Saturday, June 10, in his 64th year. He was born on July 27, 1953, in Chilliwack. Jerome was predeceased by his parents Walter and Bertha Riederer. He is survived by his sisters Antoinette (Toni) Knight of Powell River and Marianne Pelletier of Salmon Arm, and by three brothers Jim (Elaine) and Don (Dot) of Abbotsford and Allan (Ann) of Comox. Jerome was a gift from God for all of our family. Born with debilitating handicaps, he was a very happy and resourceful guy. He taught all of us how to be more tolerant, patient and accepting. He loved being with family and especially enjoyed family celebrations and parties. His passions were hockey, baseball and, especially, bowling. Jerome lived with his parents for the first 43 years of his life and, after moving to Powell River, he moved into the Bowness House group home where he enjoyed the next 20 years of his life with activities, parties, excursions and lots of entertainment. Words cannot express the gratitude the family extends to all the staff at Bowness House. Jerome was truly “family” there. All his needs were attended to and many times they went over and beyond their call of duty. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Special thanks to the house manager Sarah, who Jerome was very close to and for whom he had great respect. Prayers will take place at 5 pm on Thursday, June 22, at Church of the Assumption on Glacier Street. Funeral services will be held at 1:30 pm on Friday, June 23, also at Church of the Assumption. A reception will follow in St. Joseph’s Hall. Cremation and burial of remains will be held at a later date.