HERMAN FRITSCHY

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HERMAN FRITSCHY On Saturday, November 17, 2001 at Victoria Hospital, Herman passed away. He was predeceased in January 1999 by his loving wife of 43 years, Katy. His passing leaves to mourn his son Rick and Bev and grandchildren, Palmer and Paige of Winnipeg; daughter Tina and Tommy and grand-children, Tyler and Lauren of Boston, MA; and daughter Teresa and David of Orlando, FL. Herman was predeceased by his brothers, Theo and wife Jeanne, Frans, Ab, Martien, Wim, Harry, Ger, and Adje; and sisters, To Out and Tiny Fritschy, all of The Netherlands and his brother Joop of Winnipeg. He leaves to mourn his brothers, Henk (An), Ad; and sister Ans (Rien) Jacobsen and brother-in-law Jan Out; sisters-in-law, Diny, Dea, and Lies of The Netherlands and Wilhelmina of Winnipeg. His passing is also mourned by Katys family, who were like brothers and sisters to Herman, Helena Schoofs; Drina (Louis) Nelissen; Toni (Peter) Vosters; John (Trudy) Schoofs; Corry (Herb) Verwymeren; Anne (Ted) Fleerakkers; Bill Schoofs; Louis (Anne) Schoofs; and Terri (Bill) Jansen. Herman was predeceased by sister-in-law Gisele Schoofs. He will be missed by his numerous nieces and nephews, their children, and the many friends he made throughout his life. Herman was born on July 17, 1932 in Ouderkerk a/d Amstel, The Netherlands, one of 15 children born to Hendrikus and Johanna (Bergkamp) Fritschy. In 1951, along with two brothers, Herman immigrated to Canada and settled in Winnipeg. He embraced his adopted country and was truly proud to be a Canadian. His strength of character and independent spirit prevailed throughout his new life here. Herman married his beloved wife, Katy, on November 5, 1955, and together they provided a loving home for their children, one full of encouragement, stability, compassion, and religious values. Herman was a very hard worker. He dedicated himself to his family, providing for them well. He taught by example through hard work and commitment, shouldering responsibilities with an unwavering presence. Herman was quick to help out anyone who was in need. He created beauty from an idea and carefully brought it to fruition. He took pleasure in initiating projects and seeing the results that provided enjoyment to many people. Some examples of this were the beautiful gardens that he lovingly nurtured with Katy and shared with family, friends, and strangers alike. Herman provided a sanctuary for birds, deer, and other wildlife. In winter, he particularly enjoyed watching the deer cross the river into his backyard to the feeders he built and faithfully maintained. Hermans creative spirit flowed in his workroom, where he enjoyed creating woodworking projects ranging from whimsical decorations and functional furniture to keepsakes for his grandchildren. Herman enjoyed his time spent with family and friends. Visits with the Schoofs family and their love and support were cherished. His friendship with neighbours Marie and Sal was very special to him. In the past few years, Christmas in Orlando with Teresa and David was one of his favourite holidays, along with trips to Boston to see Tina, Tommy, Tyler and Lauren. He looked forward to his regular Sunday dinners and time spent with Rick, Bev, Palmer and Paige. Herman will be missed by all he leaves behind, but our memories of him will sustain us. Prayer vigil is on Sunday, November 25 at 7:00 p.m. at the Parish of St. Timothy, 135 John Forsyth. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, November 26 at 1:30 p.m. at the Parish of St. Timothy with Father Paul Campeau presiding. If desired, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or Heart and Stroke Foundation. "And what is it to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered?"

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 26, 2001