Henry Singer

Henry was born in Hungary at an unsettling time in the world. He grew up with two brothers and had loving memories of his mother. The younger years with his father became painful experiences that remained with him throughout his life. Their lives changed drastically when they were forced from their farm, leaving everything behind. In 1950 they immigrated from Germany to a farm in Abbotsford, B.C. where Henry worked long and hard in the fields. At 16, he left home and lived with the sponsor family and then to life on his own. He taught himself the ways of the world, working as a cook, learning how to operate heavy machinery and equipment, travelling from coast to coast. He returned back to Abbotsford to work for the Department of Highways and BC Gas. At age 32 he married Marrion Kliever. Their two daughters, Gwen and Susan were born at their new home on Sumas Mountain. Many fun times were had at the cabin on Harrison Lake, water skiing and boating. Henry purchased waterfront property on Harrison Lake and built his dream home and shop. He used the beautiful lake rocks to build unique fireplaces and for landscaping, building retaining walls, stairs and pathways, cold storage room, a koi fish pond with rock walkways and waterfall. He was always busy keeping up his gardens, fruit trees, docks and boat shed. Henry has a grandson named Jayden.

Henry adjusted to single life again at age 70. Meeting new friends, dancing, floor curling, playing cards and always entertaining everyone with his wit and sense of humor became a big part of his life. He met his new life partner Shirley Vaillant in 2010. They shared their lives together, first in Harrison and then they moved to Agassiz. Sadly in 2020, Henry suffered a massive stroke which resulted in the need for full time care. Being at home allowed Henry to work at his recovery daily for the next 3 years, his desire and determination to walk was his biggest goal. In early 2024, Henry’s needs increased which required professional assistance and he moved to full time care.

Henry passed peacefully at 5:32 am on Saturday, October 19, 2024.

Henry was pre-deceased by his parents John and Elizabeth, brothers John and Adam, and survived by his loving wife(partner) Shirley Vaillant and her family; His daughters Gwen (Fraser), Susan and grandson Jayden, sister in law Helen, niece Lisa (Daryl), nephews Tim (Frances), Darren (Kristi) and their children.

Henderson’s Funeral Home in Chilliwack is arranging the cremation.

A memorial bench in remembrance of Henry is planned overlooking Harrison Lake.

A Celebration of Life for Henry will be held at the Agassiz Friendship House, 7272 Morrow Road, Agassiz, B.C. on Sunday, December 15th, 2024, from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm.