May 20, 1950 - Apr 9, 2018
Dieter was born on May 20th 1950 in Sulfeld Germany to Jurgen and Annie Burmeister. Dieter, his two brothers Uwe and Karsten, and his sister Marion were raised in Wolfsburg Germany, with very humble beginnings. At an early age Dieter had an affinity for taking things apart and putting them back together again. It was his natural aptitude for fixing things that led him to his life long passion of Mechanics. He began his career at the age of 18 working in Research and Development in Wolfsburg, for Volkswagon. His passion for mechanics, coupled with his sense of adventure, led him to respond to an add at Felix Garage in Vernon, in February of 1973. This position was to last for only 2 years. Alas Dieter fell in love with Canada, and never left. He only returned to marry the love of his life Tamara in December 1973, and they never looked back.
Dieter was always looking to advance himself to benefit and care for his family. After his 2 sons Daniel and Sascha were born in 1977 and 1979, he moved on from Felix Garage. Over the next 20 years he attained positions at various auto repair shops and dealerships in Vernon. All of these positions helped to pave the way to achieving his life long dream of owning and operating his own Auto repair shop. Dieter's Auto Service opened in February 2000. Over the next 16 years Dieter proved himself to be a mechanic that was; honest to a fault, fair without exception, genuinely dedicated to the welfare of his customers.
When Dieter wasn't twisting wrenches, he loved spending time with his two boys out in the bush. Whether it was hunting, fishing, or skiing, Dieter felt most at home breathing the fresh air of the outdoors. With the marriage of his son Sascha to Ila, Dieter was able to achieve the crowning of his life which was the birth of his two adorable grandchildren Bentley and Kinsley. They also truly adored their Opa. He will also be lovingly remembered by his mother-in-law, Regina Schamal. He will always be remembered as the strong father and husband that provided for his family, no matter the circumstances, and against all odds.
Dieter is predeceased by his parents, and his nephew Bjorn. We would like to thank the amazing nurses and doctors at VJH for their true compassion and unwavering care. We would also like to thank all of the loyal customers that supported Dieter in his passion of automotive repair.
Cremation preceded a Celebration of Dieter's Life which will be held at Bethel Funeral Chapel on Saturday, April 21st, 2018 at 11:00 am. A Reception will follow in the Bethel Tea Room.
As an expression of sympathy, those who wish to do so may send donations in memory of Dieter to the Vernon & District SPCA, 4800 Haney Road, Vernon, B.C. V1H 1P6.
Funeral arrangements have been made with BETHEL FUNERAL CHAPEL LTD., 5605 27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5 (250) 542-1187