HENRY KUNKEL

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HENRY KUNKEL 1928 - 2015 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our dear husband, father and grandfather, Henry Kunkel of Winnipeg, MB on Monday, January 5, 2015, at the age of 86 years. He was ready to go home to his Heavenly Father after bravely enduring a lengthy struggle with ALS. He amazed us all with his positive attitude, never complaining throughout his illness to the very end. Henry was born in Germany in 1928 and immigrated to Canada with his family in 1929, settling in Whitemouth, MB. As early pioneers they struggled to clear the land to establish a farm enduring much hardship. Later as a young man, Henry went to work as a bus driver for White Ribbon Bus Lines and then Winnipeg Transit where he remained until he retired after 31 years of service in 1988. He and Frances were able to enjoy many good years of retirement together. They enjoyed traveling and spending time with their children and grandchildren. Henry kept busy with his many hobbies which included fishing, rebuilding cars, gardening, and fixing just about anything he could get his hands on. He was always there for his children and would help them out in any way he could. Henry is survived by his sister Ella Campbell (Chuck) of Victoria, BC, brothers Rudy Kunkel of Beausejour, MB and George Kunkel (Eunice) of Winnipeg, MB. Sisters-in-law, Audrey Vaags of Dugald, MB, Rita Kruizenga (John) of Winnipeg, MB, Margaret George (David) of Winnipeg, MB, Lorie Rohloff (Kerry) of Gimli, MB and brother-in-law, Harm Smid (Jackie) of St. Albert, AB., and numerous nieces and nephews. Henry is predeceased by his parents, Martha and Rudolph, sister-in-law, Ethel Kunkel and brothers-in-law, George Zechel, Paul Bisson and Adolph Vaags. Dad will be forever cherished by his beloved wife of 54 years Frances. He was very much loved and will be sorely missed by his children and grandchildren, daughter, Colleen Reimer (Rick), Sam, Holly and Joelle, son Randy Kunkel (Margaret), Miranda, Steven, Lauren and Deanna and daughter, Erica Schmidt and her daughter Savanah. Comfort is taken in the knowledge that he has gone to be with his Lord. Thank you to the home care palliative team, the staff of Riverview 3E and the staff of Grace Hospice for their kind and compassionate care of Henry. Thanks also to the many family and friends who so faithfully visited him throughout his illness. A celebration of Henry's life will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. at the Transcona Christian Reformed Church, 131 Victoria Ave. W., Winnipeg with Pastor Brian Bolkema presiding. A private family burial will take place at Sunnyside Cemetery prior to the service. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Henry's memory to the ALS Society. You were always there when we needed you, No task too great or small With a loving heart and willing hand For us you did them all. Thanks for the years you gave us And for the times we shared, We only pray when you left us You knew how much we cared. God saw you getting tired, When a cure was not to be, He put His arms around you And said "Come unto me." Forever in our memories Your Family. www.seasonsfunerals.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 07, 2015