Felix Simon Wechsler

Felix was born on May 16, 1941, in Nuremberg, Germany, to Lorenz and Maria Wechsler. Alongside his sister, Hannelore Stör, he spent his early childhood in the Gostenhof district of Nuremberg on Mittlere Kanalstraße during the difficult years of the Second World War and its aftermath.

The Wechsler family also owned a cottage in Pommelsbrunn, a small community nestled in the beautiful forests of the Franconian Jura, approximately 30 kilometres east of Nuremberg. In 1943, after his father was called to serve in the German Army, Felix, his sister, and their mother relocated to Pommelsbrunn as part of the evacuation of Nuremberg’s children from the heavily bombed city.

Despite the hardships of those years, Felix often spoke fondly of his childhood memories. As a young man, he completed his military service, where he learned the trade of gunsmithing. It was a skill he took great pride in and one he spoke of often throughout his life.

At the age of 24, Felix married Sigrid Dirnhirn in Nuremberg. They welcomed their first daughter, Sabine, a year later, following two and a half years later by a second daughter, Ute. Family was always important to Felix, and he worked diligently to provide for those he loved.

Following the passing of his mother and during a difficult period in his life, Felix made the courageous decision to seek new opportunities abroad. In 1970, at the age of 29, he embarked on a remarkable journey to Canada. Leaving behind his family, friends, and everything familiar, he set out alone to build a better future and create opportunities for his family to one day join him.

His first job in Canada involved digging basement foundations for new homes. Later, he worked for the Canadian Pacific Railway, though he often joked that punching a clock every day was not suited to his independent spirit.

In 1974, he was blessed with the arrival of a son, Michael. Shortly afterward, his father made the journey to Canada to meet his new grandson and reunite with his son. Tragically, during that visit, his father passed away.

In time, Felix was introduced to the trade of painting and wallpapering. There, he discovered his true passion. He took great pride in transforming homes, hotels, and commercial spaces through his craftsmanship and creativity. Over the years, he became highly skilled and respected in his profession. His warm personality, easy smile, and genuine interest in people allowed him to form lasting friendships wherever he went.

Outside of work, Felix had a deep love for the outdoors. He was an avid hunter, fisherman, and camper who cherished time spent in nature. Whether fishing on a quiet lake, ice fishing during the winter months, or enjoying evenings around a campfire, he found peace, happiness, and adventure in the wilderness.

Felix's love of animals was a defining part of who he was. It began in childhood when, as a young boy, he rescued a hedgehog trapped in a fence. That same kindness and compassion remained with him throughout his life. He opened his home and heart to budgies, rabbits, cats, dogs, and many other cherished pets, while also maintaining a deep appreciation for the wildlife that surrounded him. Felix developed a particular passion for breeding German Shepherds and took great pride in knowing that some of his dogs went on to serve with the Calgary Police Service. Animals seemed instinctively drawn to him, perhaps sensing the gentle and caring nature that defined him. In return, he loved them unconditionally and found immense joy in their companionship.

Felix was also a creative soul who took great pride in caring for his home and family. He enjoyed cooking and had a talent for baking, a passion inspired by the many hours he spent helping his mother in the kitchen as a young boy. He often spoke fondly of those cherished memories and the joy he found in being by her side. In later years, he carried those traditions forward, creating special meals and magical Christmas celebrations that filled the home with warmth, laughter, and love. These treasured moments became lasting memories that his family will hold close to their hearts forever.

In 1985, Felix welcomed another daughter, Anita Grace, completing his family and filling his life with even more joy and purpose.

In September 1992, Felix met the love of his life, Karin Weiss. They married in 1998 and went on to share 34 beautiful years together. Their marriage was a true partnership — full of laughter, devotion, and a deep, steady affection that carried them through every chapter of life. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, music, and the kind of hospitality that made everyone feel welcome.

Felix and Karin were adventurers at heart. They traveled the world side by side, collecting memories, friendships, and stories wherever they went. Although Germany always remained close to his heart, Felix found special joy in exploring new places. His favourite destination was Panama, a place he returned to with excitement and affection. He also cherished time spent in Hawaii, Texas, Mexico, and Cuba — each trip adding another layer to the rich tapestry of his life.

Felix loved to dance. Whether it was a lively celebration, a quiet evening at home, or a moment when music simply moved him, he brought an energy and joy to the dance floor that was unmistakably his. His rhythm, his smile, and his love of life were contagious, reminding everyone around him to embrace the moment and find joy wherever they could.

Felix is survived by his wife, Karin, who stood by his side through every chapter of his journey. He leaves behind his children Ute, Sabine and Anita Grace, and is reunited in peace with his son Mike. He is also lovingly remembered by his step-children Bernie, Monika, and Anita, and joins his step-son Gary in rest.

Felix’s legacy continues through his grandchildren—Matthew, Joshua, Gabriela, and Faith — each carrying forward a piece of his spirit. He also held deep affection for his step-grandchildren: Jammal, Gitta, Graeme, Hayden, Rayna, Layton, Alexandra, Dimitry, Coralese, Evan, Rhys, Aerielle, Jeremy, and Leah, who enriched his life with their presence and love. His joy only grew with the arrival of his great-grandchildren: Asher, Madilynn, and Brooklyn, who brought him endless delight.

Those who knew Felix will remember his steady presence, his gentle humour, and the unmistakable warmth he brought into every room. Whether offering a glass of his latest brew, sharing a story from his days in Bavaria, or simply listening with quiet understanding, Felix had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued.

Felix will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, strong work ethic, resilience, craftsmanship, generosity, and kindness. His journey from post-war Germany to Canada stands as a testament to his courage, determination, and willingness to embrace life’s challenges. He leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, family, friendship, and a life well-lived.

He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.

His family will gather privately to honour his life, share memories, and celebrate the man who meant so much to so many. Felix’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who loved him—and in every toast raised in his honour.