Arnold William Niefer

The family of Arnold Niefer sadly announce his peaceful passing on Thursday, December 10th, 2020, in Calgary, Alberta, at the age of 78 years. A Celebration of Life will be held later, when safe to do so, in Calgary.

Arnold was a dedicated and loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He grew up just outside of Yorkton, Saskatchewan, on the family farm with his parents Fred and Molly Niefer and was one of 12 children. The family all worked very hard in the gardens, orchard, fields and tending to the animals. As a young man, Arnold worked as a heavy equipment operator and ran a business with his brother Mervyn. He was very proud of his work and the proficiency he developed running a DC8.

In 1962 he married Joyce Neal and they welcomed three children into their family, Wendy, Kevin and Kelly-Dawn. In the early years of their marriage Arnold found work in Alberta, working in construction with the desire to help create a secure life for his family. In 1974, the family all moved to Calgary to live in what Arnold called "God's Country". In his 40's Arnold changed careers and went on to enjoy meat cutting and managerial positions with Associated Groceries and the Co-op, where he worked until his early 70's. Those who worked by his side always marveled at his amazing work ethic!

In Arnold’s free time he enjoyed playing ball with his brothers and sisters and then with his children. He also enjoyed fishing with Joyce, golfing and barbecuing. As a devoted husband he would help his wife with her chocolate boutique, Chocolate Choices. He would finish his day job and then go to her shop to help until closing. His energy seemed endless! Arnold and Joyce were very devoted to their family and hosted all the family special occasions for many years. The food was always magnificent, the card and board games fun, with much laughter being shared.... these moments and memories are precious to all of our family.

In Arnold's later years he was a loving and enthusiastic grandfather who was always ready for a game of Crib, Skip-Bo or teach you how to barbecue.

Arnold is lovingly remembered by his three children; Wendy (Brian) Kuny, Kevin (Kim) Niefer, Kelly (Stephen) Michaud. He also leaves to cherish his memory his 5 grandchildren; Benjamin, Samuel (Lauren), Rebecca, Brianna, Maddison and his 1st great grandchild; Cash. Arnold is also survived by his brother; Mervin (Marjorie), sister; Isabel and in-laws; Lorne (Pat) Neal, Lois (Casper) Haas and Verne (Joanne) Neal. He will also be greatly missed by numerous nieces, nephews, as well as loving friends. Arnold is pre-deceased by his parents; Fred and Molly Niefer, brothers; Art, Ernest, David and Gordon, sisters; Rita, Irene, Hilda, Wilma and Dorothy, and his late wife of 55 years; Joyce, who was laid to rest in 2018.

If friends so desire memorial donations may be made directly to the Canadian Liver foundation. Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded to the family via the website www.fostersgardenchapel.ca.