Carl Granzow

CARL EDWARD GRANZOW, beloved husband of Friederike Granzow, passed away on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at the age of 65 years.

Carl was born on December 31st, 1943 in Chicago, Illinois as the first of two children to Edward and Suzanne Granzow. The family moved to Phoenix, Arizona when Carl was still a child. He went through school in Phoenix, attended California Western University, and completed graduate degrees at Arizona State University in Sculpture and Art Education. In 1970 Carl made a very important trip to see his brother Fred Granzow who was teaching in Chilliwack, B.C. Fred introduced Carl to Friederike Dyck and, on Feb 19th, 1972, the two were married in the Coaldale Mennonite Church. Carl worked at the University of Lethbridge as a lecturer in sculpture and design and then at Neufeld Industries before establishing his career as a professor of Art. Carl was a passionate teacher, academic and administrator at the University of Lethbridge for 32 years. To see him coming down the hallway at the University, was to see a man full of charisma and exuberance.

Carl's enthusiasm was an inspiration to those around him. He was always engaged in building things; this creativity was just as true when he was making sculptures as when he founded new initiatives, programs and relationships at the University and in the community.

Carl's unique and endearing sense of humor always brightened the room, and his laughter was unrestrained. He wouldn't let a joke (whether good or bad) go without repetition. Carl lived life with an intensity that he loved to share with friends and family. He enjoyed the outdoors and took great pleasure in working on his acreage, hiking, hunting and fishing.

Carl has left us with many good memories. He also left us many provocative works of art and reflective spaces, such as Papokan, the University's Sculpture Park that he was instrumental in realizing. Carl devoted much of his energy to the local art community. His work was also exhibited and recognized internationally.

Carl is survived by his wife Friederike, his father Ed (Eva) Granzow, his brother Fred (Nan Vye) Granzow, his four children, Andrea (Mark) Klassen, Kara (Tom Perks) Granzow, John Granzow and Michael (Madeleine Baldwin) Granzow and his three grandchildren Henry, Suzana and Anika. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters in law and many nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service for Carl will be held at 2:00PM, on Saturday, April 18, 2009 at the COALDALE MENNONITE CHURCH, 2316 - 17 St., Coaldale, AB.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Mennonite Central Committee 210, 2946 - 32 St., NE, Calgary, AB, T1Y 6J7, or to a charity of one's choice.