Emma Dohler passed away peacefully at the Bulkley Lodge in Smithers on February 26th at the age of 94.
Emma was born in Adelboden, Switzerland to parents Rosina and Friedrich Gyger. In 1937 her family made the decision to immigrate to Canada under a subsidized Swiss emigration program. This program was through the Swiss and Canadian Governments, and the Canadian Railway Companies. They travelled by train to LeHavre, France, then by ship to Halifax, and finally by train to Smithers. The family settled on a farm just East of Smithers. Times were hard, and all who were able, found jobs. Emma worked at the Barrett Ranch and for the Sisters of St. Ann at the Smithers hospital. Claude and Emma met at Barrett Ranch where Claude also worked. They married in 1941.
Claude and Emma first settled at Riverside Dairy, which they rented along with Emma’s brother Fritz. Approximately three years later, they purchased the MacDonald Ranch on Burnt Cabin Road where they raised hay, beef, and turkeys. In 1953 they moved back to Riverside Dairy, which they purchased, and continued to raise beef, hay, turkeys, and later potatoes. After the farm sold in 1967, Emma enjoyed volunteering for the Fall Fair and Senior Citizens activities as well as spending time with her family, her grandchildren, and playing hand and foot. She also liked growing potatoes. Grandchildren Brian and Lauren spent many hours with Emma in her later years.
Emma is predeceased by her husband Claude (Nov. 1983), and all of her brothers (Fritz, Bill, & Johnny) as well as her sisters (Rosa & Mary).
Emma is survived by her children Shirley Culver, Jerry (Kathy) Dohler, Leonard (Coranne) Dohler; nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
We have many happy memories of Emma and we will miss her.
A Memorial Service will be held on April 6th at 2:00 pm in the Pioneer Place Activity Centre in Smithers.
Condolences may be offered at
www.raschraderfuneralhome.com
R.A. Schrader Funeral Services
250-847-2441