Obituary of Michael Bielenstein

Michael Bernhardt Bielenstein of Calgary, Alberta passed away Sunday September 13, 2020 at the age of 56.  He was born in Kimberly, BC to Gudrun and Hans Bielenstein. 

 

Growing up, Michael lived in various locations across Canada; Jasper, Kingston and Elliot Lake, Ontario, finally Calgary.  He graduated from William Aberhart High School.  Michael was a perpetual student, working on various degrees and programs at the University of Calgary, UBC and SAIT.  He enjoyed all 'non-work' activities such as skiing, hiking, camping, motorcycles, flying ultralights and hang gliding.  Michael also had a peaceful spiritual side. Yoga, meditation and simple pleasures were very important to him.  

 

Music was a part of his daily life.  From the early years of HS band, to jamming with friends in garages with their electric guitars and playing his classical guitar in the mountains in front of a campfire.  When his health condition made it no longer possible  for him to play, his solace was through his headphones listening to an unlimited variety of music.  

 

Michael was preceded in death by his mother Gudrun Bielenstein and father Hans Bielenstein.  

 

Michael is survived by his sister and guardian Tanya (Greg) Lee Chee, step mum Linnet, step sisters Krista and Alison (Carlos) and six nieces and nephews.  He is lovingly remembered by his aunts Ursula and Erika as well as numerous extended family members in BC, Ontario, Sweden and Germany. 

 

The family expresses its gratitude to his many caregivers over the past 10 years, especially his time living at St Martha's Place in Banff, AB.  The mountains and fresh air gave him such joy, sunshine or snow!

 

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.  Tributes in Michael's memory may be made to the Huntington Society of Canada.   www.huntingtonsociety.ca