Tribute

Christel was born on May 9, 1932 in Berlin Germany to Emma and Armin Panter.  She passed away on Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at the Kimberley Special Care Home.  Christel had a difficult childhood, living through the beginnings of WW2.

At the age of 19 she married her Beau Joseph, and soon after started a family of their own.  In 1953 they immigrated to Canada on the ship ‘Beaverbrae’ with two daughters in tow, and settled in Saskatchewan, where they welcomed another daughter and a son.

While her children were young, Christel worked as a homemaker and later on enjoyed her jobs at the Bay and Wascana Geriatric Center, in Regina.  In 1973 Christel fulfilled her dream of moving to the mountains and relocated to Canal Flats, BC.

Christel enjoyed her time working in the dining room at the Lodge in Fairmont Hot Springs and spent many years cooking meals for the Lions Club.  She and her husband Joe were avid Carpet bowlers and competed numerous times in the BC Senior’s Games.

Christel’s favorite spot was up in the mountains. They covered thousands of miles in their vehicles, exploring the remote wilderness as extensively as possible. The measure of a successful trip was often determined by the amount of wildlife they could observe. Spotting bears and cougars was always the most thrilling part of their adventures.

Compassion and empathy were fundamental aspects of Christel’s character. She held a deep affection for all her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Throughout the years, she adored and treasured her cats. Christel was known for her willingness to assist others, even during her time in assisted living, where she continued to offer help to fellow residents.

Christel spent her last years in the Kimberley Special Care home.  Despite her battle with dementia, she maintained her witty sense of humour and held a very special place in the hearts of all those who cared for her.

Christel is survived by her children Ute Frank, Marita Szafron (Garry), Marion Egeto (Terry) and Jack Frank (Brenda), grandchildren; Kelly O’Donnell, Morgan O’Donnell, Brianne Rhodes, Jameson Frank, Amelia Frank, Elyshia Frank and 7 great grandchildren.  She is predeceased by her husband Joseph, parents Emma and Armin Panter and her brothers.