Henry "Hank" BERANEK

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our loving husband, father, and grandfather Henry Beranek or “Hank” as known to most. He passed peacefully on May 26, 2024, in the Elk Valley Hospital in Fernie at the age of eighty-four. Hank was born in Natal, BC on November 7, 1939.

Hank was predeceased by his parents, Jeremiah and Mary, his sister, Francis, and brother Laddie. He is survived by the love of his life and wife of sixty years, Marie; his children, Neil, David, Connie, and Blaine (Elisha); his grandchildren, Jacob, Gracie, Robert, Vance (Aly), and Rayne (Brent) and great grandchildren; Harper, Weston, Ranger, Jayne, and Ridgely.

Hank spent his entire life in the Elk Valley settling on an acreage on the Lower Elk Valley Road. There they spent over fifty years raising their family, welcoming relatives, friends, and cementing many lasting memories. He loved the outdoors, hunting, fishing, camping, and riding horses in the mountains with his wife and kids. Hank loved hockey. Whether playing, coaching, or watching his kids and grandkids play, he rarely missed a game.

Hard work never scared Hank. He spent his early working years guiding in the Upper Elk Valley and in the Flathead. He was a born trucker. In his early life he drove logging truck, lowbed, concrete mixers, and long hauled. He eventually settled into his mining career, first as an explosive truck operator, then as an equipment operator before finishing with the Elkview Road Crew.

As Hank entered his retirement years, he enjoyed spending time in the Flathead with his friends and family. One of his biggest pleasures was getting to hang out with his grandchildren, especially around the farm.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Sparwood Curling Rink on June 22, 2024, starting at 12 PM. Please come prepared to share stories and reminisce about the good times shared with Hank.

The Beranek family would like to thank the staff at both the Elk Valley Hospital and Kelowna General Hospital for the care given to Hank.