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Heidi Elisabeth Dewald
Heidi Elisabeth Dewald, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully in Creston, B.C., on June 11, 2026, at the age of 89.
Celebration of Life Graveside Service is Saturday, July 04, 2026 @ 11:00am at the Forest Lawn Cemetery, Erickson, BC.
Heidi was born on May 24, 1937, in Invermere, B.C. and grew up in Edgewater, B.C. She received her education in Invermere and carried throughout her life the values of hard work, kindness, and quiet strength that were shaped during her early years. Those who knew and loved Heidi will remember her as a loving, funny, and thoughtful woman whose presence brought warmth and comfort to every gathering. Her life was marked by devotion to family, a deep appreciation for friendship, and a spirit that found joy in the simple yet meaningful moments of everyday life.
Heidi was predeceased by her husband, Bill Dewald Sr., and her son, Bill Dewald Jr.
She is lovingly remembered by her daughter, Julie Chiste, and son-in-law, Bill, and their children, Danielle Chiste and Jaimie Soloway (AJ), and their daughters, Ellie and Ava. She is also survived by her son, Darryl Dewald, and daughter-in-law, Denise, and their children, Melissa Dewald and Michael Dewald (Mekelle), and their daughter, Korra. Heidi is further survived by her grandson Jesse Dewald, son of Bill Jr., and his wife, Mykayla, and their sons, Porter and Bowden.
She is also survived by her brothers, Ben and Ron Schnider; her sister, Cecilia Hamanishi, and husband, Ken; her sister, Annie Dreyer, and husband, Bill; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.
Heidi enjoyed many outdoor activities and especially loved camping with close friends and family. Some of her happiest memories were made on forestry roads around Creston, where laughter came easily, stories were shared around campfires, and days were spent enjoying the company of those she loved. She treasured the friendships she built throughout her life, many of which became like family. Her wonderful sense of humour and easy laughter made every gathering more memorable, and she had a special gift for turning ordinary outings into cherished occasions.
She also enjoyed bingo and often travelled by bus to Bonners Ferry with friends, looking forward not only to the excitement of the game but also to the companionship and fun of the day. Card games were another favourite pastime, and she welcomed family and friends into her home for weekly card afternoons that became a beloved tradition. Cribbage was one of her favourite games, and when playing with her son or son-in-law, her primary goal was always to beat them—a challenge she pursued with determination, good humour, and competitive spirit. As her family would lovingly say, it was a goal she was still working on. These games reflected not only her competitive nature but also her love of connection, laughter, and time spent with the people she cared about most.
In her later years, Heidi enjoyed cross-stitching as a peaceful way to pass the time, especially while her eyesight still allowed her to continue. It was a pastime that suited her patient and thoughtful nature and gave her another way to create something beautiful with her hands. Even as her health changed, she continued to face life with grace, resilience, and the steady character that always defined her.
Those who knew Heidi will remember her warmth, wit, and generous heart. She had a remarkable way of making others feel welcome and valued, and her family and friends will long remember her laughter, her stories, and the comfort of her presence. Her life was a testament to love in its many forms, especially the love she gave so freely to those around her.
Heidi leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, friendship, and unwavering devotion to her family. Though she will be deeply missed, the memories she created and the love she shared will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
If friends wish to make a memorial contribution, they may do so to either the Creston Valley Hospice Society, PO Box 612, Creston, BC V0B 1G0 or Ronald McDonald House BC/Yukon 4567 Heather St., Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C9.
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