Klaus Franz

With heavy hearts and profound love, we announce the passing of Klaus Franz-devoted husband, beloved father, cherished Opa, proud Great-Opa and caring Uncle on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the age of 94.

Klaus was born in Leipzig, Germany, on May 10, 1930, the youngest of seven siblings-Wolfgang, Brigitte, Iris, Joachim, Manfred, and his identical twin brother, Horst. In 1953, at the age of 23, Klaus bravely set sail for a new life in Canada, arriving on his birthday, a fitting beginning for a man who embraced every moment as a gift.

A man of many talents, Klaus was a Master Butcher and skilled hunter, a true craftsman in his trade. But beyond his early work, he was a man of passion and joy, dancing his way through life with Amalie, the love of his life and wife of 70 beautiful years. With effortless grace, he taught his daughters to waltz and polka, instilling in them the rhythm of celebration and the importance of embracing every moment. Klaus’ love for the great outdoors was woven into the very fabric of his life.

Whether capturing the world through his lens as a gifted photographer, enjoying the serenity of orchards, vineyards, and gardens, or standing high among the cherry trees, picking fruit with care, he was always in harmony with nature. He found peace in the water—swimming, cruising, or simply basking in the sun. Klaus loved travelling the world and enjoyed adventure on the high seas, where he and Amalie delighted in cruising together.

His home was one of love, laughter, and homemade, farm-fresh meals, where the simple joys of life were celebrated with family. His presence was steady, strong, and deeply comforting-a foundation upon which his family flourished.

Klaus was the unshakable foundation of his family-their rock, their guide, and their greatest source of strength. His wisdom was steady, his love unwavering. He led by example, teaching resilience, kindness, and the value of hard work. His son even called him The Rock”, a testament to the strength of character, integrity, and dependability that defined him.

Klaus leaves behind an enduring legacy in his beloved wife Amalie, his children Monika (Michael), Rosemary (Terry), Harry (Judy), Christine (John), and Diane (Dennis); and his grandchildren, who adored him: Jacquelyn (Lucas), Lindsay (Ryan), Amalie (Stephen), Aileen (Ruida), Evonne, Edward (Alexia), Aine, Mitchel, Morghan, Carter, Nicholas, Bill, Angela (Michael), Daniel, and Desiree (Shane). His love and wisdom will continue to shine through his 17 great-grandchildren, whose lives are forever enriched by his kindness and warmth.

A heartfelt thank you to the compassionate caregivers at Bethany Riverview, especially the Lakeshore Level 2 North team, for their unwavering kindness and care over the past six years.

Though Klaus has set sail on his final journey, his spirit lives on in the love he shared, the lessons he taught, and the countless beautiful memories he leaves behind. His life was well-lived, a heart well-loved, and a soul forever cherished.

A Funeral Service will be held at Foster’s Garden Chapel, 3220-4 Street N.W., Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 1:00 pm. The funeral will be live streamed by Foster’s Garden Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer Society of Calgary.