KLAUS GOCKEL

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KLAUS GOCKEL It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and Opa Klaus Gockel, aged 73, on Sunday, July 31, 2005. Mourning his loss is his wife Mary (nee Wiebe) of 49 years; as well as his children, Rainer (Colleen) and children, Nikolaus, Raelene and Adam; Ed (Jackie) and children, Kelsi and Kara; Karen (Steve Kazubek) and children, Kevin, Andrea and Monica; Marlene and Bert. He is also survived by a brother-in-law, four sisters-in-law and several nieces and nephews in Canada and Germany. Klaus was born on April 7, 1932, in Geseke, Germany. The youngest of four, he attended a local school from 1938 to 1947. He then completed a three-year apprenticeship program to become a cabinetmaker. In May 1953, at the age of 21, he immigrated to Canada, settling in Winnipeg and meeting his future wife Mary. The couple married on June 30, 1956, and have five children. He worked as a cabinetmaker for 32 years, retiring in 1988. Klaus enjoyed spending time with his family and attending his grandchildren's sporting and cultural events. He also continued to create and share his woodworking talents with his family. In addition to woodworking, Klaus enjoyed history, fishing, travel and music. Most importantly, he continually shared his expertise, his time and his talents with his children and grandchildren. A proud Canadian, in 2003 he celebrated 50 years in Canada with a special family gathering. He was predeceased by his parents, brother Josef and sisters, Margaret and Anne. The family thanks the Winnipeg Emergency Response Unit for their promptness and kindness. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee, 134 Plaza Dr., Winnipeg, MB R3T 5K9. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 4 at 3:00 p.m. with viewing one half hour prior at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. Interment and reception will follow. Two tired eyes are resting. Two willing hands are still. The one who always worked so hard, Is resting in God's will. Rest in Peace Pap and Opa Arrangements entrusted to: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE 885-9715 Family and friends are invited to sign the Book of Condolence at www.chapellawn.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 02, 2005