It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our loving husband, father and poppa, Alfred Philip Hackenschmidt on Sunday, September 25, 2016.
Alf was born on March 26, 1929 in Brandon, MB where he resided all his life. He attended King George and Earl Haig Schools in the East End. At age 16, he started his life’s career as a plumber for Neil and Stoddard later working at Relf’s Plumbing & Heating with his brother Jack. He moved on to construction jobs which took him to Estevan, Dauphin, Thompson (INCO), the Steam Plant, Hooker Chemicals and finally Simplot Chemicals where he retired at age 63 in 1992. Alf also worked as a pipefitter, tinsmith and gas fitter and was recognized for 50 years of service with his Union Local 254. He was a hard worker and provided a good life for his family.
Alf enjoyed gardening, curling in his retirement and meeting for coffee with his friends at McDonald's. He was a loving and caring man who was happiest when helping out a friend or neighbour. His love and commitment to his family will always be remembered. He was a very generous and outgoing person who made friends wherever he went. His greatest joy in life was his 2 loving daughters Bev & Brenda, grandson Ryan and great grandson Finn. There was nothing he would not do for them. The more he had, the more he gave.
Alf married Grace Dushnisky on October 1, 1949, enjoying almost 67 years together. Alf is survived by his wife Grace, daughter Bev Smith, daughter Brenda (Colin) Hardy, grandson Ryan (Heather) Smith, great grandson Finn Smith and their "furry son Sholto". Also surviving are sisters in-law Jean Ewanyshyn, Doris Hackenschmidt and Marie Folmes and brother in-law Bill Illchuk plus many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents John and Augusta, brothers John, Jack, Charlie, Edward and Joey, sisters Kate Smith, Edith Gibson, Alma Dedrick, Ann Walansky and Elizabeth Kusela.
To learn more about Alf and celebrate a life well lived, join with his family and friends at Memories Chapel, 330 18th Street North, on Tuesday, October 4th, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. with Pastor Laurel Seyfert from Redeemer Lutheran Church officiating. The family requests anyone wishing to make a donation can do so to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 114 Ashgrove Blvd, Brandon, Manitoba R7B 1E1 or a charity of their own choice.
We grieve at his passing, but also rejoice in having had him as part of our family. We thank you for all the years of love and happiness. You will always live on in our hearts & memories. Thanks Dad and Poppa. We love you forever!