Tuesday, January 9, 2018 at 12:00 a.m.
Neufeld, George Gerhart
GEORGE GERHART NEUFELD,beloved husband of Apollonia "Loni" Neufeld of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully on Friday January 5, 2018 at the age of 88 years.
GEORGE GERHART NEUFELD, beloved husband of Apollonia "Loni" Neufeld of Lethbridge, passed away peacefully on Friday January 5, 2018 at the age of 88 years.
George was born in Hierschau, Ukraine on February 18, 1929 to Aron and Anna (nee Plett) Neufeld. He was the 5th of 13 children. When his father was taken away by the Russian army for his religious convictions and community position, his mother realized the family had no alternative but to flee their homeland. Having to leave his oldest brother Aron behind as he had been separated from the family, she guided her remaining 12 children to safety. In 1949 they immigrated to Canada. George always said his life began at 20. He was a very proud Canadian.
George met a beautiful girl with a curl right in the middle of her forehead and married the love of his life, Loni, on September 28, 1957. They settled in Coaldale, where they raised their 3 children, Linda, Katy, and Peter.
When George was in his early 40`s, he started his own company "George`s Plumbing and Heating Ltd." and was still actively involved in the business with his son until he was 80.
George was a proud and very private man. He understood the value of hard work, first to provide for his family and then to enjoy the benefits resulting from his labour. He and Loni enjoyed yearly month-long excursions to Hawaii for many years.
George was predeceased by his father Aron, mother Anna, and 9 siblings: Aron, Kornelius, Hilda, Erna, Kathie, John, Hans, Rosa, and Frieda.
George always said his greatest blessing was his family. He is survived by his wife, Loni, daughters Linda, Katy (Cliff), and son Peter; his five grandchildren Tia (Jon), Corey (Allison), Greg (Amanda), Adam (Erica), and Alisha (Michael); his greatgrandchild Owen, as well as 3 siblings: Margaret, Erika, and Peter.
Due to declining health, George spent the last 2 years of his life at Adaptacare Cedar Creek Lodge where he was cared for by a wonderful staff.
Family and friends are invited to pay their respects to George prior to the Funeral Service at the COALDALE MENNONITE CHURCH, 2316 - 17 Street, Coaldale AB. on Tuesday, January 9, 2018 from 10:00 - 11:00 A.M. The Funeral Service will be held immediately following at 11:00 A.M. with Pastor Lil Thompson officiating. George will be laid to rest at Mountain View Cemetery, Lethbridge.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC), 2946 - 32 Street NE, Calgary Alberta T1Y 6J7.
Auf Wiedersehen Papa
Guestbook (9)
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Dear Katy and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I fondly remember how well your parents treated me whenever they came to visit you in Edmonton - they practically force fed me steak! Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
I'm deeply saddened to learn of uncle George's passing. Like many family members I had the opportunity to work for George's Plumbing over a summer. Most days were spent helping Peter, but whenever I worked with George, I recall fondly, there was always a little extra time for a coffee break at the El Rancho. My condolences to Peter, Loni and the whole family.
Loni and family,Don and I are sadden by your loss and our thoughts and prayers are with you and you family. With heartfelt sympathy Don and Lynn Virginillo
Katy, Cliff & Family. Thinking of you and your family. Deepest sympathy for the loss of your Father and Grandfather. Sincerely, Christine Ehnes
Dearest Tante Loni, Linda, Katy & Cliff, Peter and Families...I know there are no words to comfort you at this time, just know that you are in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. We will never forget his warm smile and gracious welcome whenever we got together. Hopefully the great memories you have, will help comfort you.
Dear Neufeld Family, I was very saddened to hear the news of George's passing. Please except my sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time. I wanted to share with you a poem I received when my brother Rudy passed away that was written for me by a close friend. "When I must leave you for a little while, please do not grieve and shed wild tears, and hug sorrow to you through the years, but start out bravely with a gallant smile, and for my sake and in my name, live on and do all things the same, feed not on your loneliness on empty days, but fill each waking hour in useful ways, reach out your hand in comfort and cheer and I in turn will comfort you and hold you near, and never, never be afraid to die, for I am waiting for you in the sky, do not stand at my grave and cry, I am not there, I did not Die." Best Regards, Jack Van Rijn
Dear loni & family. Just a note to let you know Jim & I are thinking about you in your time of sorrow & loss. May God bless you & comfort you Sincerely Kathie Anderson & Jim Bailie
Dear Loni: My deepest condolences to you. So sorry to hear of the passing of your husband George. I will keep you in my prayers. You were the most devoted and loving wife. God bless you! Sincerely, Barb Krushel
Mrs. Neufeld & Family We are so very sorry for your loss. All the cherished moments with George will help to get through this sorrowful time. We have you all in our hearts.