Leo Berchtold
June 13, 1930 Zurich, Switzerland
Sept. 10, 2021 Banff, AB
It is with deep sorrow that we share the passing of Leopold (Leo) Karl Berchtold, with his dearly beloved wife, Marion, by his side.
Born in Zurich, Switzerland, he completed his schooling, college and army service in Switzerland. As a young man he, along with a friend came to Canada, working in Ottawa. He was a ski instructor in both Quebec and Stowe, Vermont, but, being Swiss, soon the rocky mountains lured him to the west, to Banff. He worked as a swimming and a ski instructor. Skiing was his passion. He competed in races, skiing until almost the age of 90 years, and was intervened frequently by both written and television press. Leo loved the mountains, he loved Banff. He was interested in documenting the results of ski races, some of his compilations are held at Norquay.
Leo worked for Johnny Monod, a fellow Swiss, at Monod Sports, then ran his own business for ten years and then worked for a number of other companies. He belonged to and held executive positions with service clubs in Banff and with his condo association.
Leo and Marion enjoyed travel. They spent their honeymoon traveling Europe. They made frequent trips to Europe, visiting countries from England to Budapest, but especially Switzerland, visiting Leo’s large family. They also traveled in North America – the National Parks and Mexico and Hawaii.
Leo enjoyed music. He played the trumpet, saxophone and accordion, and occasionally could be persuaded to yodel !!
Leo so enjoyed life; he was personable, a man with many friends. He will be sorely missed.
Leo is survived by his family; his wife Marion, who he loved so very much, by his brothers, his sister, their families and numerous cousins in Switzerland and in Calgary by his sister-in-law and her family. He was predeceased by his parents and by his brother .
A Memorial Mass will be Celebrated in Banff at St. Mary’s Catholic Parish at 1:30 pm on Saturday, September 18, 2021. All persons entering the church will be required to wear masks.
Flowers gratefully declined. Friends wishing to remember Leo are encouraged to make a donation, in his memory to a charity of your choice.
