Alfred William Schroeder

Alfred is survived, and dearly missed, by his loving wife of 70 years Eleanore, children Marlene, Roger (Shirley), Barbara and Daryl (Lori), grandchildren Heather (Randy), Cindy (Brad), Jay, Bethany, Evan (Carly), Jonathan, Ryan, Todd (Shahin), Andrew (Stephanie), Anne, Greg, and great grandchildren Zachary, Matthew, Alexander, Abigail, William, Isaac, and Quinn. He will also be missed by his sister Pennie, as well as many nieces and nephews. Dad was predeceased by his parents Helena and Gottfried, six brothers and two sisters.

Dad was born on the family homestead near St. Jean Baptiste, MB on June 16, 1925 into a large family with strong German roots. A few short years later, he was swept off his feet by the love of his life, Eleanore Eisbrenner, and they were married on June 12, 1946. They began farming near Rosenfeld in 1947; however, Dad's passion always was woodworking and led to the establishment of Western Woodwork and Building Supplies in Altona in October, 1963. He continued to run both farm and business until his retirement from farming in the mid-80's. A gifted craftsman, his talents ranged from woodcarving, stained glass, and restoring antique furniture. These works of art are valued and appreciated by his family, and his talent and skill can still be seen in surrounding communities such as the renovations to the Altona United Church, local schools, credit unions and many private homes in southern Manitoba.

Dad and Mom shared a love of traveling which took them on several exotic “around the world tours” including visits to Japan, Thailand, Europe, Australia, Bali, China and a notable excursion to Booger Hollow which led to questionable choices in headwear. Camping trips in their motor home (which were greatly enjoyed by his many grandchildren) also took them across Canada and the United States and for many years, they were Snow Birds who wintered in the south.

Dad had a gift to be able to fix, build and invent nearly anything, with a finesse and delicate touch that belied his humble demeanor. His grandchildren fondly remember Grandpa's big hugs, strong arms that carried them when they got tired, and those big hands that dwarfed any playing cards he held. It will forever be remembered that he won the very last canasta game and gets to go out on top! He was also a uniquely talented musician with the gift to not only pick up any instrument and play it, but when coupled with his wood working skills, enabled him to build his very own dulcimer and mandolin.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff of the Health Sciences Centre (GH6, GH7) for their kindness and skillful care of Dad during his short time in hospital.

A service will be held at 1:00pm on Wednesday, March 15, 2017 at Thomson “In the Park” Funeral Home, 1291 McGillivray Blvd, Winnipeg, MB. With interment to follow at Glenlawn Memorial Gardens, 455 Lagimodiere Boulevard.

In lieu of flowers, donations would be gratefully directed to the Altona United Church or a charity of their choice.

He will always be 10 feet tall.