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Obituary for Alfred Gerber

Alfred  Gerber
Gerber, Alfred
July 11, 1944 – August 31, 2018

It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of our husband and father, Alfred Gerber on Friday, August 31, 2018. He passed away peacefully in the arms of his daughter Monica, at the age of 74 years. Alfred is survived by his loving wife, his soulmate, his Schatzle Wanda; daughter Monica; grandson Cedric; son Andreas; and favourite cat, Lexi. He is also survived by his family in Switzerland, sister Christine (Walter) Gerber-Hoffer, brother Paul Gerber, brother Werner (Hanna) Gerber, sister Esther (Peter) Gerber-Junker, numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and a large extended family.

Born in Basel, Switzerland on July 11, 1944 to Alfred and Christine Gerber-Buess, Fred was the oldest of five siblings growing up on a farm in Muttenz, Switzerland. Dad had many wonderful stories about his childhood growing up on that large farm. His favourite things to do were picking fresh cherries off the tree, raising his pet rabbits, and building anything out of wood. He did not particularly like shearing the sheep.

When Fred was 18, he arrived in Halifax on the boat for a new start with his best friend Jack. They both settled in Newport News, Virginia until 1967. Freddy had many stories about Virginia. The one he told over and over to anyone that would listen was about the turkey lady. They lived with her and she played bingo 3 times a week. The prize back in the day was to win turkeys so they would have turkey for breakfast, lunch and dinner for almost a year. Fred really disliked anything with turkey in it since 1967.

When Fred and Jack were ready to leave Virginia, they decided to flip a coin to see where they would end up. Heads, it was Canada and tails, Australia. Heads it was, so they headed up to Calgary. Fred’s love for the mountains was the reason they ultimately chose this great City. It was in 1970 that he met his soulmate, Wanda on a blind date. They were married 2 years later, on June 3, 1972.

Dad’s main passion in life was carpentry and providing for and taking care of his family. He was an extremely hard worker and took pride in the renovation of his home, a home he built in 1972. Dad’s swiss craftsmanship was out of this world and he was so proud of his skills; skills that he taught his son, Andreas. Dad and Andreas worked together for 12 years for his company - Perma Surf Products.

He will be remembered for his willingness to help others, his sage advice, his hilarious sense of humour and his positive outlook on life. Dad always said, “It’s beautiful to be alive!” When asked how he was doing, his answer was always “great”, no matter what challenges he was facing. His optimism will never be forgotten.

At Fred’s request, no formal service will be held; however, a Celebration of his Life will take place at the family home on Saturday, September 8, 2018 from 12-4 for all those who wish to pay their respects.

Goodnight, Schatzle, goodnight. We love you and we will never forget you.

To view and share photos, condolences and stories of Alfred please visit www.choicememorial.com.
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