June 1, 1938 - December 4, 2020
It is with great sadness we announce the peaceful passing of Claus Neels at the age of 82. Claus is survived by his sisters Annaliese, Margaret (Hans), brother Willi (predeceased), the love of his life, Christa (Honey); their children Thomas (Carmen), Robert (Barbara), Dennis (Michele), Kristina (Aaron); their grandchildren, Michelle, Christopher, Marisa, Erik, Sarah, Marlena, Kayla, Jessica, Ava and Sloan; and great-grandchildren, Aliyah, Alexandra, Charlotte and Lincoln.
Claus was born in Nortorf, Germany in 1938 and immigrated to Canada in 1958 with very little, but eventually through hard work, thrived. With his young family, he started his own business as a heating contractor in Chilliwack. In 1994 he moved to Merritt and bought a ranch in the beautiful Sunshine Valley.
Claus loved his horses and the ranch. He was an avid photographer, master tinkerer and wine maker. Claus and Christa travelled throughout Europe and spent many winters in Mexico where they had many friends and adventures. Everyone who met and knew Claus will not forget him. He was strongwilled, opinionated, kind, funny, caring and generous. The love between Dad and Mom over 59 years was a joy and testament to his children and family. We will miss you.
In light of the current pandemic, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Should friends desire, donations may be made to the BC Heart and Stroke Foundation in lieu of flowers.
"Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? I am waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near, just around the corner. All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost. One brief moment and all will be as it was before. How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting when we meet again!"