Obituary of Fritz Giese

April 27, 1929 – Antonovka, Ukraine

February 11, 2022 – Calgary, Alberta

Dear Uncle Friedrich “Fritz” Giese of Calgary, AB, passed away on Friday, February 11, 2022, at the age of 92 years. Fritz was born in Antonovka, Ukraine, on April 27, 1929, and was the youngest of eight children. He emigrated to Canada after the war and lived in Leader, SK, working for Gill Bros farming and ranching. Fritz married Victoria Anhorn in 1956, and they moved to Calgary shortly after. Although his German education stopped at grade 8, he learned English by himself and attended SAIT in Calgary, earning his carpentry apprenticeship. He worked on many job sites, mostly commercial, and was foreman at many of Calgary’s downtown high-rises. Fritz enjoyed fishing, traveling abroad, camping with his motorhome (especially in Kananaskis), and woodworking in his spare time. “Starting from scratch” as he said, Fritz and Vicky built a comfortable and rewarding life together. He was always grateful to Canada for the opportunities afforded to him and all that he accomplished. In turn, we hope Canada is grateful to him, as he always wanted to be a “good citizen.” Fritz wanted to be remembered for his kindness and honesty but failed to mention his generosity and humility. He will be missed by all who knew him, including Bill and Kim Gill, their family, and especially Uli and Linda Anhorn and family, who looked after his needs the last seven years, allowing him to remain in his home until his death. Although Fritz and Vicky had no children of their own, they were the “best ever” Aunt and Uncle to many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews. Never was a birthday missed! Fritz was predeceased by his mother Ernestine (nee Hippe) and father Karl; seven siblings, and his beloved wife Vicky (nee Anhorn) in 2012.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to a charity of their choice in lieu of flowers. No service will be held at this time. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here. In living memory of Fritz Giese, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Heritage, 1708 – 16th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB, T2M 0L7, Telephone: 403-243-8200.