Horst Zimmermann went to a heavenly home at the age of 86 years, on May 10, 2022.
He will be lovingly remembered by his sister Rita, and the families of his two sisters (Irma), and numerous cousins, relatives, and friends.
Horst Zimmermann was born in 1935 in Espenbusch, Germany to his parents Friedrich and Helene Zimmermann. He had two sisters, Irma and Rita. His first ten years included being outside in a farmyard, hearing the sounds of nature, various relatives, and music. In about September of 1941, he went to school. By 11, he helped his parents on many farm jobs. Due to war, the family had to flee and became refugees. After the war, the family then spent about 7 years in Koldingen, a village near the city of Hannover. At 16, Horst did a year of apprenticing as a carpenter. They worked on deliveries of windows and doors.
In April of 1952, the Zimmermann family emigrated to Canada and came to a farm north of Coaldale, Alberta. They worked on that farm and did sugar beet field work the next three years. Horst also helped a farmer, looking after some cattle and irrigation. Horst did some work for a short time on a crew in northern Alberta. A Lethbridge church became an important part of his life. He contributed volunteer carpentry too.
In 1956, the parents bought a farm and the work of mixed farming brought many duties. Horst worked on beet fields for about 23 years. They also grew wheat, raised pigs and chickens, and worked with cattle. Horst had calves even till 2017. He did many other things with the parents to keep the farm going! Horst enjoyed biking and even entered in the Alberta Seniors summer games. He loved the outdoors, and fixing things.
He later attended Picture Butte churches. Horst knew many people in and around Picture Butte. Horst had a giving heart. He seemed quite content doing basic living and also watching birds. He enjoyed talking to people.
As his health was declining, activities became limited. Farm neighbours helped him with duties. The family found him a good seniors lodge in Taber in December 2017. There he enjoyed rest and learning about the people.
The family would like to say thank you to the many caregiving people who gave of their time, work, and insight during his latter years.
Instead of flowers, donations may be made to the Christian mission Trans World Radio Canada.
A Graveside Service will be at Mountain View Cemetery Lethbridge, on Wednesday May 18, at 1:00 P.M. We will meet at the main entrance, by the eternal flame, and go to the grave site at 12:55.