Erwin Doebeli

It is with profound sadness that Josette, Erwin (Jacqueline) and Philippe (Chantal) announce the passing of Erwin Doebeli Sr. on June 29, a dear husband, father, brother-in-law, uncle and friend who will also be missed by the many people whose lives he touched as a host, restaurateur, mentor and philanthropist.

Born in 1938 in Winterthur, Switzerland, Erwin came to Canada in 1962 with nothing but ambition and a commitment to service excellence. Accompanied by his new bride, Josette, he opened The William Tell restaurant with two Swiss partners in 1964 and fine dining officially arrived in Vancouver.

Erwin was the consummate host, and his success was recognized in numerous awards, including being inducted into the Vancouver Restaurant Hall of Fame in 2005, the same year that October 18 was proclaimed “Erwin Doebeli Day” by the City of Vancouver. Most significantly, however, he helped generations of Vancouverites and visitors build special life-long memories of graduations, retirements, birthdays and anniversaries over delicious meals and flaming café diablo (a table-side spectacle that is rumoured to have set some Christmas decorations afire one year).

Erwin will be remembered for his mentorship of many of the city’s up-and-coming chefs and owners. He propelled others to success and continues to do so through a long-standing endowment that supports students in Vancouver Community College’s culinary arts programs. He was also a man of great energy. His many passions included curling, cycling and crossbow. He put that energy to great use by cycling thousands of kilometres over 21 years to raise money for Rotary Ride for Hearing.

After The William Tell celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2004, Erwin and Josette handed the restaurant reins over to their son, Philippe, so that they could explore Europe, the US and Canada by motorcycle in their retirement and spend more time with their much-loved dogs. His was truly a life well lived and savoured.

In memory of Erwin’s commitment to giving back to his community, please consider a donation to either the BCSPCA or the Alzheimer Society of BC.