(Nov. 29, 1930 - March 17, 2008)
Passed away peacefully in his sleep at Chilliwack General Hospital with his wife Jean, son Kurt and daughter-in-law Trina, by his side after a very tough battle with bladder cancer.
Predeceased by daughter Beverley; parents, Alfred and Clara; and brothers, Egon and Alfred.
Kurt was born in Stuttgart, Germany and immigrated to Canada through Pier 21 in Halifax in 1951. In 1956, he met Jean when she pushed his car out of the ditch in front of her house and thus their relationship started.
Kurt became father to her two daughters, Helen and Beverly and in 1958 their son Kurt was born.
Kurt started work for Ocean View in 1957 as a labourer and retired in 1987 having been the superintendent for 17 years.
He was respected by his colleagues for his mentorship of his staff and his empathetic manner in dealing with the clients of Ocean View. In the early years, he worked for BA Gas to supplement the family income as well.
Kurt took pride in all he did, he was renowned for the most beautiful yard in the neighbourhood, whether it was in Surrey, Sorento or Chilliwack. He was a strong swimmer, harmonica player, pool shark (after his retirement he took up pool) and an excellent dancer.
He is survived by his wife and companion of 51 years, Jean; daughter, Helen (Joe); son Kurt (Trina); grandchildren: Laurie, Jeremy, Tonya (Gary), Patrick, Sabrina and Andrew; great-grandchildren: Charis and Paden and baby Basom; as well as sisters: Helga (Harold), and Doris (Herbert); and brother Paul and many other relatives in Germany and around the world. His best friend, Ringer, is missing her walks with her master. He will be missed by his pool-playing buddies in Rainbow Estates and the many others whose life he touched.
Special thanks to Dr. Jones, Dr. Goodman, Dr. Ojay, Dr. Fam and their staff and the staff from Chilliwack Hospital who looked after Dad during his many procedures and visits. The family appreciates the care and compassion shown to our family by all we met during this difficult time.
A celebration of Kurt’s life will be held on Saturday, April 5, 2008 from 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. at Silverdale Hall, McLean Avenue, Mission. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Underwear Affair (B.C. Cancer Foundation event) as Helen is walking in the event to honour her dad, so please sponsor her in the walk which takes place July 12, 2008.
For more information regarding the Memorial Service or the walk, email: helen@bcacs.ca or call 604-820-1327.