Obituary of Walter Georg Winkler

February 26, 1932 - Mannheim, Germany

September 11, 2021 - Calgary, Alberta

 

It is with heavy and saddened hearts that our family announces the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Walter Georg Jakob Winkler, on September 11, 2021 at the age of 89 years.

 

Walter was born in Mannheim, Germany on February 26, 1932. Walter immigrated to Canada in 1957 to provide new and diverse opportunities for his children which highlighted Walter’s sense of adventure.

 

Walter was educated as an accountant but took up welding to support his application to hopefully qualify to immigrate to Canada.  Walter was a hard worker, even spending time in a coal mine out of necessity.  Accounting remained Walter’s lifelong passion.

 

Walter literally swept Gisela off her feet when they met on the dance floor. They were both gifted dancers, a joy which they shared throughout their life together.  Walter and Gisela (nee Radtke) married on May 23, 1953.

 

Walter accomplished much through his life and was particularly proud of his leadership role in Air Canada Cargo. Walter was assigned to help build the Air Canada Cargo computer system due to his extensive knowledge of shipping and process development.

 

Walter had passion for his family and helping others.  He put others before himself and worked hard in educating and guiding others on how to manage their business and their personal finances.  This compassion gene was passed on to his son Robert and in turn to his grand child Jessica, which now lives on through them. 

 

Walter’s favourite quote was “The world is a dangerous place, not because of those who do evil, but because of those who look on and do nothing.” (Albert Einstein).  He will be most remembered for advocating for others.  Walter received recognition for his work in the community and as a proud lifelong member of the Knights of Columbus. 

 

Walter will be deeply missed by his loving wife Gisela; daughters Gabriele (Regent) of Ste Anne des Lacs, Quebec and  Rosemary (Laura) of Calgary, Alberta; sons Michael (Debbie) of Denman Island, BC, Robert of Calgary, Alberta and Walter (Noreen) of Golden, BC; his grandchildren, Véronique Dussault, Stéphan Dussault, Lee Ann Manzer, Melissa Winkler, Joshua Winkler, Jessica Huynh, Eliot Winkler, Bryan Fowler, Matthew Winkler, and Alexandra Winkler; his brother Hans Winkler of Germany; as well as many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

 

Walter is predeceased by his daughter Lieselotte Winkler, daughter-in-law Zoë Winkler, grandson Zachary Winkler, sister Lieselotte Brummer and brother Karl Winkler.

 

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY (Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB) on Sunday, September 19, 2021 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Please join our family in sharing memories and refreshments.

 

A Funeral Mass will be held at Ascension Catholic Parish, (1100 Berkshire Blvd. NW, Calgary, AB) on Monday, September 20, 2021 at 11:00 am.  Graveside Service to follow at Mountain View Cemetery, (1515, 100 Street SE, Calgary, AB).  Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Mr. Winkler's service streamed live (see below) on the day of the service. For those who are unable to view live, a recording of the service will be posted. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Walter Winkler’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.

 

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to either Epilepsy Association of Calgary (www.epilepsycalgary.com) or Alzheimer Society of Calgary (www.alzheimercalgary.ca).

 

In living memory of Walter Winkler, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Eastside, 5388 Memorial Drive NE, Calgary, AB T2A 3V9, Telephone: 403-248-8585.

 

Walter's memorial card can be viewed using this link

 

 

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