Hans Dieter Rehe, DVM passed away peacefully in Fontana, CA on September 10, 2019, at age 86. Born in Jena, Germany, on April 28, 1933, Hans’ early life was heavily influenced by the historical events of his time. His childhood took place largely during the travails of World War II; while his teens and young adulthood were endured through the privations of East Germany at the height of the Cold War.
In the early 1960s, Hans managed to flee the Iron Curtain, and his life trajectory then typified the American Dream. In West Germany, he met Bärbel Millies—who would turn out to be the mother of his two children and his wife of 37 years—at a refugee camp. He also completed his veterinary studies (which he began at the University of Leipzig) at Hannover Veterinary College. Soon after, the couple made their way to the United States via England and Canada and put down roots in San Bernardino, California.
There, Hans established and ran a very successful solo practice for over 20 years at the Highland Avenue Veterinary Clinic. His passion for his work led to many lasting friendships with his clients—both two legged and four! In the beautiful foothills of Highland, Hans also helped raise his daughter and son, instilling in them his love for sports, his strong work ethic, and many other lasting values. As a youngster, Stephanie was a talented tennis player who achieved world-class professional status prior to obtaining a doctoral degree in Physical Therapy. Mark excelled in academics, earned his law degree from a renowned university, and has spent almost two decades as a federal prosecutor. Hans took every opportunity afforded him to let his children know how proud he was of them and to share their accomplishments with anyone who would listen!
In 1990, Hans sold his veterinary clinic and moved into semi-retirement in North San Diego County. There, he took up golf, played tennis for as long as he could, continued to do veterinary work on the side, and enjoyed traveling whenever possible.
Hans will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved him. He will never be forgotten.
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