WILHELM JOSEPH KREYES, M.D.

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WILHELM JOSEPH KREYES, M.D. Wilhelm (Bill) passed away on January 18, 2018 at Pinawa Hospital, almost 95 years old. He was predeceased by his parents, Anton and Johanna; his wife Marielouise (1983); his siblings, Hermann Joseph and Hannelotte (2017); and his niece Gisela. Born in Cologne, Germany in 1923, he served as a medic, getting wounded three times in Crimea during the war. Wanting to do "God's work" he studied medicine in Cologne, graduating in 1949 as a physician. In 1951, Bill and his wife Marielouise, who became an (inter)nationally known painter, came to Canada. He worked in different medical centres in New Brunswick, arriving in Manitoba in 1957. He completed studies in psychiatry and practiced in Winnipeg and at Selkirk Mental Health Centre, where we, his friends for the past 50 years, first met him. Bill was a very private, gentle and humble person, dedicated to his work. He kept informed, especially on scientific, political and environmental matters and was an avid student of history and nature. He loved the outdoors; he and his wife introduced us to the two-seater kayak, as we paddled on and camped along Lake Winnipeg. He much enjoyed spending time at the lake, and appreciated music to the end: symphonies, choirs, opera, as well as Leonard Cohen and country. We thank the staff of Pinawa Hospital for their compassionate care, and the neighbors at the Pinawa Ironwood for their kindness. In keeping with Bill's wishes cremation has taken place, and no service has been planned. If desired, donations may be made to a charity of your choice. seasonsfunerals.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 27, 2018