LOTHAR FISCHER

Lothar Fischer passed away at the Health Sciences Centre on August 9, 2023 after a long and courageous health journey. True to his nature, Lothar “fought the good fight” right to the end, doing everything he could to return home.

Lothar was born on November 24, 1936 in Berlin, East Germany, during difficult times. Always ambitious, he made the decision to immigrate to Canada and settled in Kingston, Ontario. Lothar was a man of many talents, and ultimately, he moved to Winnipeg.  He was employed by Dominion Leather for over 35 years. He ascended through the ranks to supervisory positions, where he also provided training to new employees.  In one instance, his specialized training and knowledge took him to Australia, where his skills were shared and used.

After Lothar moved to Winnipeg, he met and married his wife Elsie and they worked and travelled together for many years until she passed away in 2014.

In 2015 Lothar met his soulmate, Valerie Grabar. Their lives became entwined, and they spent many happy times together. They thoroughly enjoyed their times at the camp in Gimli, entertaining and being with many friends. They loved to travel by RV through the U.S.A. and Canada, visiting various casinos and enjoying life on the road. One of Lothar’s unrealized dreams was to take Valerie to Cuba, his favourite getaway.

Lothar and Valerie both had a great love for pets, and the trio of the African Grey parrot “Pappagui”, the Shih Tzu dog “Sophie” and a cat named “Muffin” absolutely “ruled the roost”!  Pappagui, in particular, was Lothar’s lifelong partner for 48 years. Sadly, Pappagui died suddenly this past July. Lothar missed his “little buddy” terribly, as the two of them always had very interesting conversations and entertained each other for years.

Sophie has provided eight years of love and joy to both Lothar and Valerie, and she acted as a “therapy dog”. When Lothar was in the hospital for extended stays, Val would make sure that Sophie visited Lothar often. Sophie became a hospital staff favourite, and often providing “therapy” to other patients. Lothar considered Sophie his prized possession. She was very loyal to him and gave him a “new lease on life”. In the meantime, Pappagui often said to Sophie “Enough barking already!”

Sadly, Muffin the cat, predeceased both other pets, although Pappagui never stopped calling for him…. “Muffin, where are you?”

The German Club at 121 Charles Street in Winnipeg was another home for Lothar and Valerie. Lothar was involved in the Club for many years in various positions and he was considered a “House Father”. He very much missed not being an active member at the Club, but he did enjoy the ongoing support he received.

He loved all sports, including hockey, football and soccer, and he had a particular love for the Winnipeg Jets. Lothar especially loved horse racing and got to know many people in the industry.  He had a sports jersey for every occasion, and he continued to proudly wear his German Jerseys.

Music played an important part in Lothar’s life, whether it was the German Brass band at “The Club”, or playing his accordion, he always surrounded himself with music. Country music was his favourite, and Charlie Pride ruled that world.

Lothar is survived by Valerie Grabar and many close friends. Special thanks to Maria and Rennie for all their outstanding help and friendship over the years. Lothar was always grateful for the support and friendship extended by his neighbour “Ray”, friends Frank, Karl, Hans and Marita, Peter and Erica and many others.

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A very special thanks to two people who more recently entered Lothar’s life. Brian, from HomeCare, provided countless hours of personal care and treated Lothar as a friend. One of Brian’s acts of kindness was to provide a burial for Pappagui, something which was very important to Lothar. Thanks are also extended to Debbie, who became his housecleaner, friend and support as well.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations can be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, local food bank or charity of your choice.

As per his wishes, cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life for Lothar will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 pm on Thursday, August 31, 2023 at The German Club, located 121 Charles Street. A mobility chair will be available for access to the second floor.

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Please take a few minutes to honour Lothar's memory by watching the photo-biography above. Please, also consider sharing your own photos, memories, and stories by making use of the comment section on this page.

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ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

530 St. Mary Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

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