Grude Heinz

GRUBE

MR. HEINZ ALFRED GRUBE of Lethbridge formerly of Viking, beloved husband of Mrs. Ruth Grube, passed away on Tuesday, April 8, 2008 at the age of 91 years.

Heinz was born on July 23, 1916 in Merseburg, Germany to Johanna (Biensch) and Wilhelm Grube. The family immigrated to Canada when Heinz was 7 years old and settled in the Retlaw area. They moved to Viking when Heinz was 17. He became a butcher and worked for a time at Burn's Packing Plant in Edmonton. He took over the farm after his father died. Heinz was a disciplined and tireless worker. He worked hard on two sections of land where he grew grain and raised sheep and cattle.

In 1976 he was introduced to Ruth Wall (Biesenbach), a recent widow, who this shy farmer proposed to on their second date. They married 30 years ago in December 1997. Heinz's mother (Oma) adored Ruth and the feeling was mutual. She came to live with Ruth and Margaret (Ruth's daughter) in Coaldale prior to Heinz's retirement. During his retirement he and Ruth spent many adventure-filled years traveling the world. He also loved to garden and read.

Heinz was a loving and dedicated husband. After Ruth developed Alzheimer's in 1997 he looked after her and later, together with Margaret's help, in their home where Ruth continues to reside. Heinz moved into Adapt-A-Care in 2006 until his passing. He spent as many evenings as possible with Ruth often holding her hand, the two of them falling asleep together on the couch.

Heinz was predeceased by his mother, father and 2 brothers Fred and Wihelm. He is survived by his loving wife Ruth, stepdaughter Margaret Wall, sister Gerda in B.C., as well as two special nieces Patty (Dale) Bilyk and Margaret-Ann (Bob) Mason.

A Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm, on Saturday, April 12, 2008 at MOUNTAIN VIEW CEMETERY, with a Memorial Reception to follow at LETHBRIDGE CATERER'S formerly Sven Ericksen's, lower-level, 1715 Major Magrath Dr. S., Lethbridge.

Donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 207, 542 - 7 Street South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 2H1 or the Alzheimer Society Lethbridge Chapter, 162, 200 - 4 Ave South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4C9.

Our profound thanks to his many helpers and professionals: Robin (Adapt-A-Care) and staff, Dr. Van der Pol, Dr. Ikuta, Dr. Kingston, Laura Hoare, Shelley Lamey, Stan, LFS staff, Cindi O., Ulla, Al.