He was the sort of man who could pour a concrete foundation, enjoy a cold beverage on a hot day, and fall asleep in a lawn chair (sometimes in that order), and make it look like a life well planned. We are saddened to announce his passing on April 29, 2026, in Kelowna, BC, at the age of 87. He left behind a family who loved him and a community that was better for having had him in it.
Born on Valentine’s Day, 1939, in Romanów, Wolhynien, Poland, Hart came to Canada via Germany in 1953, a young man of 14. Hart, along with his dad Christoph and Linda, as well as his 5 brothers and 1 sister, settled into his adopted country with the faith of someone who had already decided this was going to work out fine.
In 1960, Hart married Helen, and that, as they say, was that. Sixty-six years of marriage is less a milestone than a statement of character. Hart’s character was steady: easy-going, thoughtful, kind, and generous. Qualities his family will tell you were not occasional but habitual.
Hartmuth Hugo “Hart” Haemmerling was employed by the Winnipeg Hydro company, but by 1969 the infamous Winnipeg weather prompted Hart and Helen to take a leap of faith when they moved across the country for a new adventure in Kelowna. With two young children, a mother-in-law, and all their worldly possessions, it was quite the undertaking. Initially, Hart found work as a plumber for 2 years, then he ventured out on his own – to place and finish concrete in 1971. If you asked Hart anything about his occupation, his love of concrete work would be evident; he genuinely enjoyed the work along with its plentiful challenges. Hart was always proud of his numerous landmark pours in Kelowna that he was a part of: Okanagan College, many churches and car dealerships throughout Kelowna, and countless driveways. Hart was also one of the first in the Okanagan to install paving stones, replicating “the old country” style of patios, driveways, and walkways.
Hart was a faithful churchgoer attending Kelowna First Mennonite on Gordon Drive. He was a committed member of the church business committee and the men’s group. Hart and Helen were among the original founders of the German Club. He liked people, plain and simple, loved to laugh and get together over good German food, or BBQ ribs, and don’t forget dessert… the best part. Whether it was a gathering at the church or club, a camping trip, cross-country skiing, an RV adventure, bowling, or a long soak at the Nakusp hot springs, Hart showed up with the same good nature he brought to everything else.
Hart was a devoted husband, a loving parent, and an Opa his grandchildren were lucky to have. He is survived by his beloved wife, Helene Haemmerling; his children, Richard (Marie) and Teresa (Neal); his grandchildren, Nicole and Jenna (Michael); his siblings, Walther (Rosel), Gerhard (d. Friedal), Charlotte (d. Alfred), and Manfred; and sister-in-law Margaret. He was predeceased by his brothers Siegfried (d. Elenora) and Helmut.
The family is grateful for all the healthcare workers and numerous other staff who have helped care for Hart in his last remaining years. There is an amazing team of caring staff at David Lloyd Jones nursing home. They have shown Hart and his family the meaning of patience, dignity, grace, and a never-ending well of kindness.
He will be remembered warmly, easily, and with a smile.
Memorial donations in memory of Hartmuth may be sent to Parkinson Canada.
A Memorial Service, will be held on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM (PDT), at Springfield Funeral Home, 2020 Springfield Road, Kelowna, BC. A reception will be held following the service.
