Obituary of Helmut Lothar Doerntlein

February 14, 1954 – Munich, Germany

July 26, 2024 – Okotoks, Alberta

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Helmut Lothar Doerntlein on Friday, July 26, 2024, at Foothills Country Hospice, at the age of 70 years.

Helmut was born on February 14, 1954, in Munich, Germany. At nine months old, he journeyed to Canada with his family by boat, settling in Scarborough, ON, with humble beginnings. He was the oldest brother and cared for his siblings from a young age.

At the age of 21, inspired by the call to "Go West Young Man”, Helmut moved to Calgary in 1975 with just $200, seeking a new beginning and a brighter future. Shortly after arriving, he met the love of his life, Diane. Helmut pursued further education at SAIT, earning Steel Fabrication, Welding, and Boilermaker certifications. He joined the unions and worked hard, setting him on a path to a successful career. His last project before retirement was the Bow in downtown Calgary.

Helmut and Diane married on August 19, 1978, and he was eager to start a family as soon as possible. His greatest pride was his children, and he was immensely proud of their accomplishments. The family settled in Lake Bonavista, where Helmut became involved in curling and found great friends.

It was important to Helmut to give back. He gave over 300 blood and plasma donations to the Red Cross, donated to The Mustard Seed and the local food bank, and was a treasurer for the Ostomy Society. He was always willing to lend a hand with renovations, helping friends and family, and completing a beautiful renovation on the family home. He was known in the neighbourhood for clearing everyone's driveways and sidewalks with his trusty Stihl leaf blower.

Helmut's biggest joy was spending time with his grandchildren and he treasured every moment spent with them.

Despite numerous health challenges since the age of 50, Helmut faced each one with resilience and grace. His final illness was too much to overcome, but he remained a quiet warrior until the end.

We take comfort in knowing Helmut made it to his 70th year and was able to spend many of his final days enjoying time with his adult children and his young grandchildren, visiting with friends, and relaxing in the sun.

Helmut's legacy continues through his ocular donation, reflecting his enduring spirit of giving.

Helmut is survived by his beloved wife Diane, his children, Levi, Dustin (Kristi) and Nadine (Gianni); his grandchildren, Philip, Yulia, Rocco, and Vito; his grand-pup River, his siblings, Susan and Stephen (Sami); his nephews, Brandon (Libera) and Kyle (Jana); along with their children, Sienna, Liam, and Kian.

A Gathering will be held at McInnis & Holloway (Fish Creek, Hospitality Centre, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, AB) on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Foothills Country Hospice Society, P.O. Box 274, Okotoks, AB, T1S 1S1, Telephone: (403) 995-4673, www.countryhospice.org.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Helmut’s family here.

In living memory of Helmut Doerntlein, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.