Obituary of Gerhard Friedrich Raddatz
September 27, 1928 – Modly Borzyce, Poland
March 5, 2023 - Airdrie, Alberta
It is with heavy hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Gerhard Raddatz on Sunday, March 5, 2023 in Calgary, AB.
Gerhard was born in Poland but spent most of his younger years in Koln, Germany, where he met and married Rosemarie on October 14, 1949. Later he immigrated by ship, with his wife Rosemarie, and children Ute, Rita, and Jurgen to Montreal, QC on June 26, 1959. They then continued their journey by train to Calgary, AB where they settled and expanded their family to include Frank and Rick.
Gerhard was saddened by Rosemarie’s sudden passing in January 1982. However, he was able to find love again, and on November 12, 1988 he married Helen, adding her children, Heather and Allen to his family.
Gerhard chose a lifelong career as an Automotive Mechanic working on Volkswagen, Porsche, BMW, and Volvo vehicles at various dealerships.
He was known for his love of the great outdoors, including ice racing, camping, fishing, cycling, and downhill and cross-country skiing. He also enjoyed being part of his children’s activities and in doing so volunteered to be a Leader with Scouts Canada. He had a passion for cruising and traveling to many different countries. His favorite excursions being the Cook Islands, Fiji, and Costa Rica.
He always had a helping hand for friends and family, but one of his most valued talents was fixing their vehicles on the spur of the moment. This talent led to building a few dune buggies, to enjoy the Fairmont mountain backcountry.
Gerhard is survived by his daughter Ute, sons Jurgen (Judy), Frank (Joan), and Rick (Cindy); step-daughter Heather (Gerry); grandchildren Aaron (Michelle), Pamela (Geoff), Jennifer (Mark), Jessica (Jeremy), Jason (Kelly), Richard (Roz), Christina (Jordan), Cole and step-grandchildren Mary and Phillip; great-grandchildren Mikaela, Samantha, Ashleigh, Graham, Matthew, Hannah, Mitchell, Clara, Danika, Lilianna, and Briggs; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Gerhard was predeceased by his first wife Rosemarie, and his second wife Helen. He was also predeceased by his daughter Rita, and his stepson Allen and Allen’s wife Lynn.
A private memorial for Gerhard is being held on Sunday, March 12, 2023. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta, 200, 119 – 14th Street N.W., Calgary, AB T2N 1Z6 Telephone: (403) 264-5549, www.heartandstroke.ca or the Canadian Cancer Society, 200 – 325 Manning Rd. N.E., Calgary, AB T2E 2P5 Telephone: (403) 205-3966, email donorservices@cancer.ab.ca.