May 17, 1934– Lakendorf, Prussia – December 7, 2013 – Calgary, AB
Kurt Janz passed away unexpectedly at the age of 79 years on Saturday, December 7, 2013 surrounded in love with his family.
Kurt was born in Lakendorf, Prussia, before his family was forced to find a new home at the end of the Second World War. His parents, Bernhard and Erna Janz, immigrated to Canada in 1951 with their six sons, Helmut, Arthur, Kurt, Alfred, Henry and Gerhard. As a 17 year old, Kurt met his love and future wife, Ruth Bartel, as they were preparing to immigrate to Canada. They married in 1957, after which his love for Ruth grew deeper and stronger.
In Calgary, Kurt and Ruth raised their children, Bernie, Margaret, Arnie and Edgar, in a close community of family and friends. Kurt passionately loved and devoted his abundant energy to his family, his church, his community, and his work. He built Tower Construction and Janz Construction together with his brothers and then later created California Homes with his family.
Kurt walked in deep and unwavering faith, demonstrating and expressing his love for God in all that he did. He always helped others, providing jobs for those in need, supporting generations of refugees and visiting the sick and the elderly. Ruth and his children will miss Kurt deeply but know that he is now resting in the arms of his Lord Jesus Christ in everlasting life.
Kurt will be remembered lovingly by Ruth, his wife of 56 years, and their children; Bernie & Rosanne with Elise, Matthew & Amy and Megan; Margaret & Brian Pigeon with Stephanie & Ryan Dyck, Stephen and Daniel; Arnie & Netti with Rebecca, Michael and Sarah; and Edgar. He will also be missed by his large and extended family.
Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Fish Creek Chapel (14441 Bannister Road S.E.) on Friday, December 13, 2013 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Graveside Service will be held at Edenbrook Cemetery (off 17th Avenue SW and Lower Springbank Road) on Saturday December 14, 2013 at 10:30 a.m. A Celebration of Kurt’s Life will be held at Bethany Chapel (3333 Richardson Way SW) on Saturday, December 14, 2013 at 12:00 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com
Your condolences and prayers are welcome. In lieu of flowers please make a donation in Kurt’s name to Mennonite Central Committee (www.mccalberta.ca or 403-275-6935). MCC sponsored Kurt and his family as refugees when they immigrated to Canada. Kurt remained a champion of their work out of gratitude and remembrance of those who helped him and his family many years ago.