Date of Death: February 22, 2024
It is rare that we get our wish in life or in death.
Erich’s wish was two fold: to die at home and in his bed. That wish came true Thursday, Feb. 22, 2024 at 3 a.m. with his wife
Eileen (nee Heineman, formally of Kipling) beside his bed.
Erich is survived by his wife of 46 years; his children, Gordon, Robert, Engaila; four step-children, Sharon, Brent, Brenda, Colleen and family in Germany.
Erich immigrated to Canada in 1951 from Hereford, Germany, arriving in Saskatoon with a suitcase, a few precious carpenter tools and his certificate as a Master Carpenter. After six years of employment in Saskatoon, he relocated to Edmonton and became employed with Dominion Construction until his retirement, retiring as construction supervisor.
Erich instillled a work ethic second to none to those who worked for him, of himself and of his children, of which we as his children are grateful for.
He touched the lives of many people through his endeavours and his years of employment. A quiet man, never boastful.
He understood the effects of the Second World War. Never again seeing his father as he left for war. Being an only child it was his responsibility to look after his mother and himself. Food being a scarcity often found Erich hunting for rabbits, begging and stealing to feed them both.
The first taste of a chocolate bar came from the hands of General Patton as the USA army liberated the village of Hereford.
He is predeceased by his parents, Herta and Adolf Deimling; his wife’s parents, Albert and Alvina Heineman; his son-in-law Donald McLeod; great-grandson Joey McLeod; brothers-in-law Ron Wright and Robert Heineman.
His greatest joy came as he and Eileen retired to Radium, B.C., in the valley of the Canadian mountains, where Erich built his last construction project – hand building their home that he shared with Eileen for 31 years. From his home they enjoyed hiking and camping in the mountains.
Erich is survived by his children; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.
The music Erich loved has stopped. The wine he made left unopened. But he has not died in the hearts who loved him.
We will sadly miss him. He was one in a million.
Ruhe in Frieden, Dad
Rest in Peace, Dad
His wish was to be cremated and buried in Grenfell, in the Heineman family plot.
