Uel Joseph (Bert) Schroeder
July 23, 1930 – June 24, 2017
It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of Bert Schroeder in the Grand Forks hospital after a short battle with pneumonia.
Born on a farm near Centralia, Ontario, he was the 8th of 11 children. The name Samuel was suggested but his mother did not like the shortened version Sam, so she got rid of the Sam and kept the Uel. In his teens while attending a social function he wore a sweater that hung below his suit coat and made him look like a farmer named Bert who was commonly seen dressed this way. He was immediately given the nickname Bert and this essentially became his first name.
Bert joined the RCMP in 1953 and spent his career in B.C. at 7 postings throughout the province. At his first posting in Prince Rupert he met the lovely nurse Naida Kucher and within two years they were married. The last posting was to Grand Forks in 1971 where he was the sergeant in charge until retiring in 1976. A highlight of his career was in 1969 when, thanks to his skiing ability, he was part of the security detail for Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau’s heli-skiing trip in the Bugaboos.
In 1976 Bert joined Perley Elementary School and spent 14 years as office manager and biggest kid. He is best known for his unofficial duties including nurse, tooth puller (it’s been said he pulled more loose teeth than the local dentist) and ice rink maker.
Bert liked to be outside hiking, skiing, canoeing and rock rappelling and introduced countless people to these activities. He was also an avid woodworker and carver and at least half of Grand Forks has received a piece of Bert’s folk art.
Bert leaves behind his wife Naida and children Ken (Maryanne), grandchildren Neil and Emily; Eric (Suzette); and Cary (Randy Doubosiff), grandchild Justin.
Bert asked that no service be held. Donations can be made in his name to the B.C. Lung Association or the Hospice and Palliative Care Unit at the Grand Forks hospital.