Edward Arnold Gjernes

Edward Arnold Gjernes, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, family member and friend, passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2026, in Kelowna, British Columbia. Edward was born in Lestock, Saskatchewan, to Olaf and Irene Gjernes.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Beverly Gjernes; his children, Lorri Parussini and her husband Robert Parussini, and Warren Gjernes; the mother of Warren’s children, Penny Gagnon; and his cherished grandchildren, Cole, Sean, Cassidy, and Tayler. He is also survived by his sister, Doreen Austin, extended family, and many dear friends.

Ed had the kindest heart and a graceful strength, the kind that made everyone around him feel safe and deeply loved without him even trying. He lived a life defined by love, hard work, loyalty and an extraordinary generosity of spirit.

He was fiercely proud of his family and never shy about showing it. Ed had a way of making the people around him feel like they were the most important people in the room, always giving more than was expected, always showing up, always taking care of everybody. That generosity wasn't something he had to think about; it was just who he was.

Ed loved to tell stories about his life experiences to everyone, and he never failed to tell a good one. Those stories, full of humour, wisdom, adventure and love, are gifts his family will carry with them forever. We are truly blessed to have gotten the opportunity to hear those stories and to have the confidence to say he really did live his life to the fullest.

Ed will be remembered as a man of integrity who led by example, in love, in hard work, and in the way he showed up for the people who mattered most to him. His family was his greatest pride, greatest joy, and greatest accomplishment, and he made sure they always knew it.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date at Ed's beloved cabin. A celebration of life open to all who loved him will also be announced in the coming weeks.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Ed's memory to the BC SPCA, a cause close to his heart, and one he'd say speaks for those who cannot speak for themselves.

We love you to the moon and back