Obituaries

KLAUS ANDREAS GRABA
   Klaus Andreas Graba passed away on Wednesday, July 27, 2016 at Grace Hospital after a courageous, and well fought struggle.   Left to mourn Klaus’ passing are his daughter, Andrea (Rhos), and their children Helene, Lance and Sutherland; son Dirk and his daughter Alexia; as well as Birgit (Dirk) and their children, Tabor and Eloise. In Germany, his sister Frauke (Bernie) and partner Erika also mourn his passing. He was predeceased by his mother, Helene; father Willy; sister Wiebke; brother Uwe and son Ove.   On October 20, 1931, Klaus was born in Heide, Germany. He grew up before and during World War II, but in spite of the war, enjoyed a carefree youth with friends and family. After the peace, he apprenticed as a cabinet maker. Then, following a stint in the oilfields of Holstein, he enrolled in the German Police Academy, staying there long enough to learn he wasn’t cut out for the discipline of police work. Klaus then heard the call to Canada in 1954 where, after working in Drayton Valley, Alberta, he settled in Winnipeg. There he met, and in 1957, married Brigitte Driedger. Working at Qualico, Dormond Industries and Winnipeg Transit, they built a family empire with hard work, diligence and an immer sparen attitude that afforded the family a comfortable home, a beautiful cottage, travel and educational opportunities for his four children. In his retirement, Klaus enjoyed many years of travel between Germany, Majorca and Hawaii, meeting friends, hiking the hills and enjoying warm weather and cheap red wine.   Klaus cherished the many friendships he made over the years and kept in touch as an avid letter writer. He was a man who didn’t change the world in a big way, but he did make the world better for his children and grandchildren. What he built with his hands, whether furniture, a shed, or a whole cottage, was always built to last. With his support, Klaus helped his children get ahead and he was proud to see us establish our lives, never hesitating to give plenty of advice along the way.   In later years, as his health began to ebb, Klaus remained a pleasure to host at dinner, telling stories, sharing jokes, often shaking with laughter and enjoying a glass of cheap red between impromptu tableside naps. He loved a good, salty joke and was never shy about repeating them over and again. At his ending, Klaus and his family had the great care and compassion from the staff of 3N at Grace Hospital. With thanks to Dr. Joshua and Dr. George and the nursing staff who took such great care of him. Thank you.   In compliance with Klaus’ wishes, no formal Funeral Service will be held. Family and friends are invited to drop by at Dirk’s home to share stories and memories on Sunday, July 31, 2016 at 4:00 p.m.   Wojcik’s Funeral Chapels & Crematorium, Winnipeg, 2157 Portage Avenue, 204.897.4665 www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com