Herbert Marcinkowski

Herbert was born on November 8, 1942, in Deutsch Krone, Germany, during the turmoil of World War II. He was the beloved son of Gerhard Marcinkowski and his first wife, Anna, who passed away during the war. He was lovingly raised by his father and stepmother, Margaret, alongside his siblings.

As a young man in Germany, Herbert became an upholsterer and proudly attended the German police academy. In 1965, at the age of 22, he immigrated to Canada with his best friend aboard the Holland-America Line, arriving with determination and hope for a new life. His first home in Canada was Winnipeg, Manitoba, where he worked for the Greyhound Lines bus company, upholstering seats. In the early 70s, he eventually moved to Toronto to start his own business as a residential and commercial painter. Soon after, Herbert purchased his cherished home in Oshawa, where he settled and built a life he loved. He worked as a painter for the City of Oshawa until his retirement in 2002.

Herbert had an enduring passion for life and found joy in simple pleasures: watching hockey, tennis and World Cup soccer, camping, road trips, and spending time in nature. He was never happier than when he was at home — relaxing in the backyard, tinkering in the garage, or fixing something around the house. A true handyman, he took pride in everything he did.

He especially loved celebrating holidays, birthdays, and milestones with his family and many dear friends. Herbert’s presence was a source of laughter, love, and lasting memories.

Herbert was a devoted husband to Jowelyn (Joy) for 34 wonderful years, and a loving father to Mandi (Dan) Theberge and Mike. He was a proud and caring Papa to his grandsons Marcus, Evan, and Ryan. He was predeceased by his siblings Klaus, Brigitte, and Angelika, all of Germany. He is fondly remembered by his nieces and nephew Anita, Ralf, and Michaela, and great-niece Julie, also of Germany.

Herbert was a genuine man. He will be remembered for his kindness, compassion, generosity, and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Oshawa Funeral Home, 847 King St. W., Oshawa, on Thursday, October 2, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. A Funeral Service will take place in the chapel on Friday, October 3, at 1:30 p.m., with reception to follow.

If lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Durham Regional Cancer Centre. Online condolences may be shared at www.oshawafuneralhome.com.