Harry Lelke

It is with great sadness that the family of Harry Lelke announces his passing on August 2, 2025, at the age of 94.

Harry was born on May 23, 1931, in Sbotoka, Kr. Kolo, Warthbruecken, Poland. In 1951, he immigrated to Canada, arriving in Halifax after a three-week journey by ship. He soon made his way across the country, settling in Kitimat, British Columbia. In 1956, he brought over his beloved bride, Marga Lelke (née Primas). Together, they shared nearly 70 years of marriage and raised three daughters.

In 1972, the family relocated to Kamloops, British Columbia, where Harry began a new chapter. Over the years, he built three family homes and enjoyed a long and dedicated career with Weyerhaeuser. He retired at the age of 65, but retirement never slowed him down. He found great joy in working on a local dairy farm in his later years, embracing country life. His love for the land and simple living remained with him until the very end.

Harry is survived by his loving wife, Marga. He will be deeply missed by his daughters and their families: Cornina Jordan, and her children Tiffany Jordan (Rory Robertson) and their son Leo Robertson, and Travis Jordan (Jennifer Jordan); Carmen Yaretz (Ron Pawluk), and her children Nastasha Yaretz (Jason Lewis) and their children Boden Lewis and Blake Lewis, and Yanina Yaretz; Marietta Matuschewski (Randy Matuschewski), and her children Cary Sara and his children Ella Sara, Caleb Sara (deceased), and Brittany Chandra (Dennis Chandra);

Harry was the eldest son of the late Ludwig and Lydia Lelke, and the eldest of five siblings. He is lovingly remembered by his brother Eugene Lelke (Francis DeGraff) and their children Constance, Diana, Mark, and Kevin; his sister Ellie Eichhorst (Eugene) and their children Ericka, Esther, and Eric; and his sister-in-law Donna Pike, wife of the late Helmut Lelke, and their children Heidi, Wendy, and Johanna. He was predeceased by his sister Anita Behnke (Erich), and their children Leonard and Sandra.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Royal Inland Hospital for their kindness and support during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Harry’s memory may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Service details will be announced at a later date.