Helwig, John
Passed away peacefully at Lanark Heights Long Term Care Residence, on Wednesday, October 23, 2019. Born April 11, 1929 in Lorsch / Hessen, Germany, son of Johannes and Luise Helwig. Predeceased by his parents, and his 2 brothers Valentine and Herman Helwig. John is survived by the “Love of his Life”, his wife of 66 years, Elfriede Helwig (Faas), and his children Marina Helwig-Ostler and husband Tom, Karen Marshall and husband Jeff. One of John’s greatest joys and his most honoured title, was that of “Opa” to his 4 grandsons Mark Ostler (Maggie), Keith Ostler (Jenn), Brian Marshall (Nicole), Jason Marshall and two great-grandchildren Charlie and Ben Ostler. Opa will be sadly missed by all, but held in our hearts forever. John grew up in Karlsruhe, Germany, and emigrated to Canada in 1951. His fiancé, Elfriede followed him in 1952, and they married in Toronto in 1953. John worked hard in the logging camps of Northern Ontario when he first arrived in Canada, and then later at De Havilland Aircraft, McDonald Douglas Aircraft, and retired from Mack Truck in 1994. He lived his retirement years in Kitchener, where he enjoyed traveling, lawn bowling, gardening and time with family. According to his wishes there will be no visitation. Cremation has taken place. Condolences for the family and donations to The Food Bank of Waterloo Region or the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society may be arranged through Henry Walser Funeral Home 519-749-8467. The family extend heartfelt thanks to the staff at Lanark Heights for the excellent care, kindness and compassion shown to John and his family during his time there. Visit www.henrywalser.com to view John's memorial.