Ismael Tschernetzki

ISMAEL TSCHERNETZKI, of the City of Lethbridge, beloved husband of the late Elfriede Tschernetzki, passed away on Friday, September 11, 2009 at the age of 82 years.

Ismael was born in Goroschki, Ukraine on August 14, 1927 and was the eldest of three children. He was predeceased by his brother Oscar Tschernetzki, and his parents Otto and Elsa (Pankonin) Tschernetzki. Ismael met the love of his life, Elfriede Treder, in Germany and they married in 1951. In May 1957, Ismael and Elfriede, along with their two young children, immigrated to Canada, and settled in Lethbridge. Dad loved carpentry, and worked for many years in the housing construction industry. After retiring, Dad refused to sit still, and took a job at Custom Engine and Parts for many years. Dad's greatest passion was always his ""kinder"". He custom built his granddaughters a Hope Chest, each as individual as they are. He loved music and poetry, and taught himself to play guitar and wrote Church plays. He was a gentle soul, who lived a simple and fulfilling life that revolved around his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His favorite place to take his children on vacation was Waterton Lakes or Radium Hot Springs. Dad took great pride in his garden, and would often be found tending to his roses or working in the shop. He always had another ""project"" on the go, and sought ways to quietly express his creativity. If you asked Dad how he was, he would always answer ""so far, so good."" He touched the hearts of all who met him, and he will be missed.

Ismael is survived by his brother Harry Tschernetzki, his daughter, Helgrid (Barny) Knelsen and sons George (Grace) Tschernetzki, Harry Tschernetzki, Susan Tschernetzki, and Ed (Cathy) Tschernetzki. Ismael is also survived by his grandchildren, Terri Widmer, Tania (Jeff) Hastings, Tim Knelsen, Tiffany Knelsen, Pamela (John) Neilson, Patti (Cameron) Moore, Christel Tschernetzki, Tasha Tschernetzki, Jordan Tschernetzki, and Alexandra Tschernetzki. Ismael is also survived by his seven great-grandchildren, Hannah Widmer, Erikah Widmer, Olivia Burrows, Cameron Hastings, Cailee Hastings, Jenna Baker, and Michaela Neilson.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects prior to the Memorial Service on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL, 610 - 4 St., S., Lethbridge, AB. The Memorial Service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPEL. A Private family interment will take place in the Mountain View Cemetery.

Flowers are gratefully declined. Those who wish, Memorial Donations may be made to The Alzheimer Society Lethbridge Chapter, #402, 740 - 4 Ave., S., Lethbridge, AB, T1J 0N9.