Kenneth M. Fernets, 94, of Vernon, BC, passed away on December 17, 2025, and his beloved wife, Carmelita Fernets, passed away on April 12, 2026, also at the age of 94. They leave behind a legacy of love, devotion, faith, and generosity. Born in Saskatchewan in the 1930s, both were raised on farms by hard working parents — Ken in Canora and Carmelita (Karutsky) in Stenen, just 30 miles apart. Kenneth was the youngest of eight children and from an early age he was entrusted with learning the full operation of the family farm, gaining responsibility and skill well beyond his years. Carmelita, one of six children in a musical family, grew up surrounded by instruments, singing, and the rhythm of shared work. These formative years shaped the strength, faith, and generosity they later became known for.

They met in Canora in 1952 and married in 1954, building a home on the Fernets farm and raising four children: Levon, Charlene (Peter), Arbur (Tammy), and Rheisa (Darren). In later years, their family grew to include two grandchildren, Jordan and Melaney Campbell, born in Vernon, BC. At the age of 28, Ken was a member of the Board of Directors to create the Canora Credit Union, and later he developed the Canora Feed Lot. Their successful farming operation earned the Saskatchewan Master Farm Family Award in 1971 — a testament to their dedication and partnership. Ken and Carm had a passion for studying the Bible, hosting Bible studies in their home every Sunday and organizing Church Conventions on their farm and throughout the Canora area. After selling the farm in 1972, they spent several years in New Jersey doing volunteer work for their Church. Ken became a printing expert for The Dawn Magazine, while Carmelita ran the main kitchens, becoming known for her expert culinary skills, warmth, and hospitality. In 1975, they moved to Vernon, BC, where they built a home overlooking the Okanagan Valley. It quickly became a gathering place filled with music, fellowship, and abundant meals — a reflection of who they were at heart. Carmelita became a top salesperson for Coppercraft of Canada and later opened Carmelita’s Deli, famous for her 20 varieties of soup and great food. Ken worked for several forestry companies, building logging roads throughout the Monashee Mountains and fighting major fires with the same heavy equipment. He later served as Superintendent of Public Works for the Municipality of Spallumcheen. Even after retiring, their service to God continued. Ken delivered sermons across Canada, the United States, Australia, and Eastern Europe, while Carmelita’s ability to speak five languages made her a gifted ambassador of their faith and message of hope.

Ken and Carmelita passed away within four months of one another, after 71 years of marriage — a testament to their enduring bond. They were devoted parents, grandparents, siblings, and cherished relatives. They are remembered for their kindness, integrity, and tireless zeal in their faithful service to the Lord God. They are deeply missed. A joint celebration of life will be held for both Ken and Carmelita at 11am on June 20th at Okanagan College Campus, Kal View Café, 7000 College Way, Vernon, BC.

• Date : 20260610