HANS GOLLER

March 21, 1947 – December 8, 2023

With broken hearts we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband, opa, brother, uncle and friend. Hans passed away peacefully at home on Friday December 8. He will be lovingly remembered by his daughter Susi (Karlin) Shelvey, son Chris (Natasha) Goller, grandchildren Caleb, Katie, Braden, Justin, Aiden, Max, Leo and Oskar; brother Walter, sister Gisela, and many dear friends.

 

Hans was predeceased by his loving wife Donna, mother Hilde, father Albert and his dog and best buddy Bandyt.

 

Hans was born and raised in Germany with his brother Walter and sister Gisela. Hans had fond memories and would share many stories of the challenges and joys of growing up there. At the young age of 17 Hans decided to take the leap and start a new chapter in Canada. After long boat ride and trek across eastern Canada, he found himself in the St. James area of Winnipeg living with his aunt and uncle on Linwood Street. This was where he soon met his future wife and the love of his life Donna, who was quite happy to snatch him up “fresh off the boat”. Hans worked as a millwright upon arrival and despite his age and language barriers quickly moved up in the company. He then decided to enter the world of construction working as a carpenter, eventually starting his own company, H.K. Contracting. Here he was able to use his incredible work ethic, problem solving skills and artistic nature abilities to consistently produce high quality work. Over the years he completed many projects all over the city, province, country and even as far away as Russia. Hans always took great pride in his work. Whether it was a large commercial project, a home or cottage for friends and family, or a gingerbread house for grandkids, it was executed with care and intent. He truly loved to help people and there aren't many that knew him that won’t have a memory or example of his work in their life.

 

When he wasn’t hard at work, Hans loved a good adventure. Whether it was a tropical get away with friends, a trip back to Europe or a family road trip, he was always ready to take it on. Hans loved being outdoors and enjoyed spending time gardening, berry picking, hiking, hunting and most of all, fishing. He’d always make time for fishing and enjoyed many trips all over Canada. He was even known to happily accept a good opportunity as payment for work. He got to spend many years enjoying the outdoors with friends and family at his cabin and eventual home in Lac du Bonnet. Countless hours of conversation and many laughs were had over cards, bon fires and bbqs. Many great memories were made there with his family and friends. He loved having his grandkids out for the weekends and always made sure they were spoiled just enough. His other happy place was his home in Arizona. Here he could finally escape the Winnipeg winters after facing so many years working in them. He happily spent his days there hiking, sight seeing, socializing with friends and neighbours and taking as many pictures of cactus as possible. He and Donna cherished all the good times and often shared fond memories made with family and friends.

 

Hans had a strong respect and love for all animals, especially dogs. This was most evident in his relationship with the family dog Bandyt. Bandyt was treated like a prince, receiving custom made birthday dinners and often getting treated to a cheeseburger and ice cream from the drive-thru. Hans would often go out of his way, and at times at his own risk to help an animal in need.

 

It is heartbreaking to have to say goodbye. We are all so grateful for everything you taught us and all the time we had together. You will be missed more than words can describe and will be remembered by those who knew you as a selfless and faithful husband, a caring father, a loving opa, a trustworthy friend and hardworking craftsman.

 

To honour the special place in Hans' heart for dogs, the family asks that in lieu of flowers please feel free to make a donation to D'Arcys ARC in his memory.