With great sadness in our hearts, we say farewell to our most beloved father and Opa. Heinz Lehmann passed into heaven after a courageous battle with cancer, shortly after his 95th birthday. Heinz became a full-fledged Journeyman Baker in Germany at the young age of 17 and continued to love to bake for family in later years, especially at Christmas. His sourdough bread, Christmas cookies, and Stollen were always the best.
Heinz immigrated to Canada in 1951. He first worked in Premier Mines in Stewart, BC, where he unfortunately lost his leg in an industrial accident. He then moved to Vancouver where he met the absolute love of his life, Trudy, on New Year’s Eve in 1953. They married in 1954 and began raising their family in Port Coquitlam, BC, with Heinz becoming a trained watchmaker. In 1967, an opportunity to own his own jewellery store arose, so Heinz & Trudy moved the family to Terrace, BC, on a shoestring, a hope, and a prayer, where they grew H. Lehmann Jewellers into a thriving business. Heinz loved living in Terrace, residing there for the next 52 years. He was a respected and involved member of the community, a member of the Rotary Club, a tenor in the church choir, with always a smile, sly wit, and friendship for all. Heinz truly loved his family and wanted nothing but the best for them always. Heinz & Trudy were married for 64 years before her passing pulled them apart.
Predeceased by Trudy in 2018, he is survived by his two daughters, Karen (Wes) Zetaruk, of Victoria, BC, and Sabrina (Gord) Allen, of Brandon, Manitoba, and his grandchildren, Logan Zetaruk (Catherine Kang), Savannah Zetaruk, and Nakita Allen. He also leaves behind his only remaining cousin in Germany, Helga Nisiotis, and his sister-in-law Roswitha Springer, along with their extended families, and nieces and nephews.
We extend a special thank you to Dr. Dowler, Dr. Mackenzie, and all the nurses and medical professionals in the Palliative Care Ward at Saanich Peninsula Hospital for their outstanding care and compassion. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2:00pm, at Dawson Heights apartment complex, 3810 Cedar Hill Cross Road, Heinz’ residence in Victoria since 2021.
Rest now in peace, Dad. You are finally together again with Mom, your true love. We will hold you both in our hearts forever.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
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