Passed away peacefully on October 15, 2023 at the Welland hospital in his 82nd year.
Beloved husband of Doreen (nee Haist) for 59 years. Loving father of Bryan (Anne) Durst, Lorrie (Herb) Sawatzky, and Sherri (Kerry) Gruarin. Proud Grandpa to James Durst, Aleah Sawatzky, Colton Sawatzky, Jillian Gruarin and Step-Grandpa to Kyle Gruarin and Jonah Gruarin. Predeceased by his sister, Ruth Brinkman. Survived by brother-in-law Earl Brinkman and several nieces and nephews.
Bert was born on Dec. 12, 1941 in Ottawa to William and Esther (nee Pilgrim) Durst. As the son of a Minister, he was raised in several rural Ontario communities. He was passionate about learning and received several post-secondary degrees including BA(Hons) in Geography (1963 U of Waterloo), B.Ed. (1965 U of Toronto), M. Ed. Education Planning (1975 - OISE), Superintendent of Education Certification (1986). He was a deeply committed educator of the Niagara South Board of Education serving as a Secondary School Teacher, OSSTF local president and provincial rep, Vice-Principal, Principal, and Superintendent of Education; culminating in one final year as Superintendent with the newly formed District School Board of Niagara.
Bert was a man of unwavering faith, and lived out his Christian calling in many capacities, always serving with whole-hearted devotion at Pelham Community Church, the Niagara Presbytery, and the Hamilton Conference. Bert was also a dedicated superfan to his beloved Buffalo Bills as a 50 year season ticket holder.
Visitation will be held at Pelham Community Church, 461 Canboro Rd in Fenwick on Thursday, November 2, from 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm. The funeral service will also take place at the Church on Friday, Nov. 3 at 11:00 am. Internment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pelham Community Church, Niagara Nutrition Partners (school food program), or the charity of your choice.
Condolences can be shared at www.pelhamfuneralhome.ca