Heinz Steinhilber of Scotch Creek, British Columbia, passed away on February 4th, 2017, just two weeks after celebrating his 91st birthday. He passed peacefully with his family by his side, knowing he was deeply loved.
Heinz is survived by his wife of 37 years, Erika, his son Gert (Jane), his daughter Inge (Ali), four grandchildren, Amin (Janice), Sara (Mauro), Bobak and Andrew, three great-grandsons, Joseph, Samuel and Dante as well as extended family in Canada and Germany. He was predeceased by his first wife, Irmgard in 1973, his parents, Richard and Elisabeth Steinhilber, his sister Anita and his brothers, Ulrich and Erwin.
Heinz was born in Striesen, Poland on January 20th, 1926. As a young boy, he enjoyed the hard work of farm life with his family. In 1944, Heinz was drafted and a survivor of World War II, as well as, being prisoner of war for four and a half years. As a machinist, Heinz moved to Germany to start a new life, married, Irmgard, in 1949 and had two children, Gert and Inge. Heinz, at a young age, committed his life to the Lord, whom he served faithfully his whole life through.
In 1956, Heinz and his family immigrated to Canada and lived for a time in Richmond, British Columbia. Heinz and his family often camped in Shuswap Lake and fell in love with Scotch Creek. In 1973, Heinz tragically lost his wife, Irmgard. Scotch Creek is where Heinz built his life for the past 48 years and called it home.
Heinz was a highly skilled machinist, generous and giving, and always lent a helping hand when needed. Besides being a machinist, he loved being up on his farm and taking care of his cows.
Heinz remarried in Germany in 1979, his loving wife, Erika. Once married, they worked hard to build a home and enjoyed their life together. Heinz and Erika loved to have family and friends visit and no Christmas was complete without family there to celebrate.
Heinz was a mentor to his children and his grandchildren. He taught them a strong work ethic and to appreciate life and each day given. We will dearly miss ‘our one and only’ Opa and cherish the special moments and memories we have of him. Opa will forever live in our hearts.
Please join the family in a celebration of Heinz’s life at North Shuswap Christian Fellowship Church on 4079 Butters Road, Scotch Creek, on Wednesday, February 15th, 2017 at 2pm.
Arrangements entrusted to Fischer’s Funeral Services & Crematorium, (250) 833-1129. Email condolences and share memories of Heinz through his obituary at www.fischersfuneralservices.com.