Alfred ((Fred)) Rempel
May 26, 1928 - May 25, 2014
Tribute
Just one day before his 86th birthday, Fred passed away peacefully after a short battle with cancer. He was born in Marientahl, Russia to Henry and Agatha Rempel. He emigrated to Canada in 1947 with his mother and three siblings, Margaret, Herman and Erika. They settled in Yarrow with relatives and then moved to Vancouver. Fred married Helen Driediger in 1955 and had two daughters, Debbie and Lisa. The family moved to Aldergrove in 1970. Fred was still manager at Trapp Motors in Burnaby and commuted daily. He decided to open his own autobody shop and started Valley Collision in 1971 and then onto Abbotsford Autobody. Fred was a Rotarian who definitely believed in “Service before self”. He was the recipient of three Paul Harris Awards, for his generosity of time and involvement. He also loved racquetball which he learned to play while in his 50’s. In his 70’s he was at one time the VRC’s oldest playing member. Fred is remembered for his generosity, love of people and love of any type of social gathering. He always felt the next new person he met was a potential friend. Fred is survived by his sister Margaret (Orlando), his daughters Debbie and Lisa (Les) Urness; his treasured grandchildren Todd (Jamie), Abra (Jason) Garratt, Sarah and Lindsay and his newest loves, his great grandchildren Bronwyn and Boden. He was predeceased by his parents, siblings Ernst, Henry, Lydia, Herman and Erika; his wife Helen in 2010 and great nephew Michael.
The family would like to thank everyone who came to see Fred during his stay at Abbotsford Hospital and the Christine Morrison Hospice. He truly loved all of you. We want to thank the staff at Hallmark on the Park; you made Dad’s last 4 years so enjoyable, comfortable and welcoming as well as all the friends he made there and especially Dena, his cribbage friend. A special thank you to Herman for his friendship, car rides and the writing of Dad’s life story.
A memorial for Fred will be held Monday, June 2, 2014 at 2:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Mennonite Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your favourite charity or Dad’s favourite Youth Unlimited/Abbotsford.
Condolences
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From: Wiebe and Jeske Funeral Home Staff
Wiebe and Jeske Funeral Home Staff send our condolences to family and friends.
From: David Robinson
Relation: Through Rotary
Fred was the recepient of three Paul Harris recognitions that read “In appreciation of tangible and significant assistance for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations between peoples of the world”. That certainly describes my dear friend. Those of us who were priviledeged to have know Fred are indeed richer for that experience. Rotary International Past District Governor Dave Robinson.
From: Evelyn Fjeld
Relation: friend
Thinking of all of Fred’s family today. It was a pleasure to know him. Thanks again Lisa for taking me home with you last fall to visit; and Debbie for your sisterly hospitality.
From: sue king
Relation: very dear, longtime customer
heartfelt sadness for your loss. your dad was one of my favorite customers so long ago he will be missed .with love and laughter sue king
Service Schedule
Funeral Service
Date & Time:
June 2, 2014
Beginning at 2:00pm
Location:
Emmanuel Mennonite Church
3471 Clearbrook Road
Abbotsford, BC Canada
3471 Clearbrook Road
Abbotsford, BC Canada
Memorial Gifts
The family has not designated a preferred charity at this time.
Thank You Notice
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Wiebe & Jeske Funeral Home
202-31314 Peardonville Rd.
Abbotsford BC
V2T 6K8
info@wiebeandjeskefh.com
604-859-5885
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