It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother and dear friend, KLAUS ISELE, on March 22, 2022 at the age of 75.
Klaus will be lovingly remembered by his wife Donna whom he had just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with in February, children and grandchildren: Diane (Randy) Kohnor & Spenser; Darren (Kristi) & Jensen; and Kalvin (Melanie); brothers Hans (Carol) Alfred (Milly) his sister Helga and his many nieces and nephews.
Klaus was predeceased by his parents Otto and Olga Isele, his beloved Oma, in-laws, Tony and Lena Shewchuk, his oldest brother Albert, twin brother Arthur, brothers-in-law, Jim Shewchuk and Ozzie Ronningen and special family member Sylvia Weeks.
Klaus was born in Spirit River where he met his wife Donna. In 1971 Klaus moved to Chilliwack, BC, where he worked with his brothers at the Union 76 Gas Station. Donna visited Klaus often during this time and the couple married soon after in February, 1972. After settling near Chilliwack, BC, Klaus & Donna welcomed their first child, Diane. Klaus then moved onto Giant Mascot Mines after the gas station closed. Work would once again take Klaus & family to their next home near Hope, BC, where he was employed by the Department of Highways for 3 years. It was here that they were blessed with their second child, Darren. In 1977, Klaus took an interest in farming and the family moved to Devale, Alberta. They rented the land on the original family homestead from Donna's father, who assisted them in planting their first crop in 1978. During this time the couple completed their family with a third child, Kalvin. In 1979, Klaus & Donna purchased the homestead from Tony. Over the next 38 years, the couple would raise their family and successfully farm the land together until retirement in 2017.
Retirement led Klaus and Donna to move to Lethbridge where they would spend the remainder of their years enjoying time with their family. Klaus loved his children and grandchildren wholeheartedly. He cherished time spent with them and the many memories made during visits to the farm, family holidays, milestone celebrations, and watching sports while cheering on his grandchildren. Klaus was so proud of all of his children and grandchildren and always reminded them of his pride for them all.
Klaus had the biggest heart, he loved life, people and touched so many. He made everlasting friends from all areas he traveled including many new friends he held deep in his heart that he met in Lethbridge. Klaus truly cherished the time he and Donna spent with his siblings, park neighbors, their crib clubs, and the morning coffee buddies at Smitty's. Klaus would do anything for anyone at a drop of a hat and was there for everyone and anyone who needed him. Klaus had the knack for telling jokes as he thoroughly enjoyed making people laugh and even sometimes surprised! He was always busy puttering and was not one to sit still for long. Klaus enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and camping with his family and his dear friends. One could not even count the number of card games Klaus enjoyed with family and friends and the memories and laughs shared.
He will be remembered fondly for his crazy sense of humor, generosity, undeniable work ethic and desire to live life to the fullest.
Staying connected with family and friends was very important to Klaus and over the years, there were many celebrations. Out of respect for Klaus' beloved wife Donna, the final celebration of Klaus's life will be announced at a later date.
Our family would like to extend a special thank you to the Isele siblings, Hans (Carol), Alfred (Millie), and Helga, for their friendship, kindness, and the care given to both our parents over the last five years. We will be forever grateful for your support.
Fred Howard, April 23, 2022
Ted & Charlene Prystupa, April 8, 2022
Willard Diana Turner, April 8, 2022
Tammie, April 5, 2022
Rita Beck, April 4, 2022
William Old, April 4, 2022