Obituary of Rolf Schorn

July 7, 1931 – Cologne, Germany

July 7, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rolf Schorn, beloved husband of Christa, of Calgary, AB, on Sunday, July 7, 2024, the evening of his 93^rd birthday.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 62 years, Christa, son Robert (Samantha), his daughter Suzanne (Glenn), seven grandchildren, Christine, Jennifer, Matthew, Brandon, Kelsey, Bailey, and Gabriel; six great-grandchildren, brother Dieter (Katie), brother Wilfred (Renate), and numerous nieces and nephews.

Rolf was born in Germany to Karl Johann Schorn and Christina Schorn (nee Gilles). He was the fourth child of eight children – two sisters, and five brothers, including twins. Understandably, with that large of a family, many of the older children, including Rolf, had to help sustain the family when times were tough. He shared moving stories of how life was back then for him in his youth. He had to grow up quickly, and it reminds us to enjoy every moment and count our blessings.

Rolf and Christa were married in December 1961, after being introduced by mutual friends. Together they bought a lovely country cottage on Lac des Français, north of Montreal, where there was swimming, boating, and fishing available. Here, Rolf had many fun weekends and vacations, often extending invitations to close friends, family, and work colleagues.

After the country cottage, camping became another favourite pastime for Rolf; first tenting, then graduating to a trailer. He took his family on many trips to Long Sault campgrounds in Ontario, where lots of family and friends would meet and camp.

He taught himself to play the guitar in his early years, which led him to perform on stage with another friend, doing a comedy/musical skit (Hut und Hutchen). Although the fame didn’t last long, it was a memorable time. He also loved classical music, which often played loudly on weekend mornings.

Rolf also enjoyed making his own wine as a hobby. He even tried his hand at photography for a while, after reading so much literature on cameras, lenses, and lighting. He also had a passion for cars, changing his car every couple of years.

His employment at KHD (Canada) Ltd. really meant a lot to him and his work took him all over the globe, from days to weeks to months at a time, travelling to Cologne, Montreal, Calgary, Vancouver, Miami, Jakarta, Arabia, Jamaica, and Îles-de-la-Madeleine. Occasionally, he was fortunate enough to be able to take his family along for the duration, or at least part of the trip. He always worked hard, primarily on air-cooled and water-cooled engines; fixing, installing, doing test trials, and mentoring and training staff to take over once the assignment was completed.

He was highly sought after for his expertise by many companies. He had a strong work ethic, from his apprenticeship to retirement. He loved to tell of his work experiences and adventures and taught his family to work hard, be proud of what you do, and always give everything your best.

Rolf was one of those rare men who could do anything he put his mind to. He could just about fix, solve, or create anything that was needed. When he was at the kitchen table with a clean new graph pad, slide rule, and sharp pencil, you knew he was tackling another project.

When he retired, Rolf decided with Christa to live in Calgary. Their home was always inviting and welcoming and held many Easter and Christmas celebrations, as well as milestone birthdays and anniversaries. There would always be music playing, and a wonderful reason to lift your glass for a special toast.

Within the last year, Rolf’s health began to decline, and just before he passed, he was exposed to COVID and was not able to recover. We thank all the aides, nurses, and doctors who helped with his care and were there for him when he passed.

To Rolf, our Dad, Opa, Brother, Uncle, Cousin, and Father-in-Law, you will be missed by all, and will always remain in our hearts and memories. We miss you already.

At Rolf’s request, no formal service will be held, but a family gathering will take place at a later date to raise a glass and remember a life well lived.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Rolf’s family here.

In living memory of Rolf Schorn, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Fish Creek, 14441 Bannister Road SE, Calgary, Ab t2x 3j3, Telephone: 403-256-9575.