Rolf Willy Osterkampf

Rolf (Opa) passed away peacefully on June 1, 2013 with his family by his side. He was born on November 1, 1926 in Wuppertal, Germany. Poppy is survived by his daughter Sylvia (Jim), son Ron (Susan), two grandchildren Christopher and Sarah as well as Inge Osterkampf. He was predeceased by his mother and 3 brothers.

Rolf immigrated to Canada in 1952 to pursue a better life for himself and his family. He was a mechanical engineer/draftsman by trade - a craft he honed as a young man in Germany after the war. He was unwavering in his pursuit of creating a better life. Rolf began his illustrious career at C.W. Carey in Edmonton. His pursuit of seeing things built and improved lead him to the pipe manufacturing industry.

Rolf quickly became a pioneer, innovator and visionary in the industry. He was highly respected and oversaw various plants in Edmonton, Regina, Port Moody and Calgary. His last pipe mill and the one he was most proud of was Prudential Steel which he helped found and build in 1966 in Calgary. From his very first day with Prudential to the day he retired, RWO constantly strived to improve processes and make Prudential the best damn pipe mill in the world. Rolf was a founder, builder, director and most recently Senior Vice President Operations at Prudential Steel.

Opa was very proud of his German heritage and often told stories of the old days back home. We fondly remember those weekly trips to the German butcher and German bakery where we would load up on sausage and goodies. Opa always loved a good roasted pork hock without the sauerkraut and then after a little “nipper”. The one special tradition he truly enjoyed and proudly did was the “goodie plates” at Christmas for all the family members.

Rolf was a visionary, innovator, leader and mentor to many. He was a pioneer in his field and highly respected throughout the industry.

RWO will be deeply missed by all of us and those that truly knew him. We know your next journey will be as amazing as the one you just ended.

The family wants to extend special thanks to Dr. P and the staff of Unit 56 Rockyview Hospital as well as the staff at Southwood Hospice for all the care and kindness they gave to Poppy.

Upon Rolf’s request, there will be no formal service held. Donations can be made in his honour to the Calgary Humane Society, 4455 – 110 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2C 2T7