Obituaries

GERARD M. SCHMITZ

Gerard Mathias Schmitz passed away on Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at the Oakview Place Personal Care Home. Gerard was born in the town of Venlo in the Netherlands on March 14, 1922.

He was predeceased by his wife Agatha and his daughter Ilonka. Gerard is survived by his sons Gerry (Calgary) and Ron (Winnipeg), daughter-in-Law Carol, son-in-law Ron, grandsons Trevor, Kyle (Laurie), Jeffrey (Brittine), Jonathan (Mel), Daniel (Jasmine) and Michael, and great-granddaughter Elizabeth.

Opa immigrated to Canada in 1958 with his wife Agatha and his young family, settling in the North End, and later moving to Clifton Bay. In the last few years he resided at the assisted living residence of Sturgeon Creek I. He spent the majority of his working life as a metalworker/boilermaker at Manitoba Bridge and Dominion Bridge.

Prior to coming to Canada, Opa served in the Dutch Army, and during this time was posted in Indonesia on two occasions. During World War II, he survived the extreme hardships of forced labour in the German factories.

Opa and Oma retained a love of the Netherlands, many things Dutch and made many trips back home to visit family. They also enjoyed trips to Portugal and Victoria, bus trips to the casino, shopping for bargains, and camping at TJ’s near Portage la Prairie, often taking a grandson or three for company. He was also very active in the Canadian Legion for many years.

Opa will be lovingly remembered and missed by his family and friends.

The family extends our thanks to the kind staff at the Sturgeon Creek residence, and the caring staff at Oakview Place.

Cremation has taken place. A private family service to remember and honour Opa will take place.

A life well-lived is a lasting inspiration.

We love you Dad and Opa.