KARL ZEIF

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Karl Zeif on February 26, 2023 at age 74, after a lengthy hospital stay. Karl leaves behind his wife Brenda (nee Lofgren) of 36 years, son Alexander Zeif, stepson Thomas James (Catherine) of Montreal, daughter Iris Zeif, sister Sandy (Brian) Jewell, sisters-in-law Lynne (Jack) Crilly of Saskatoon, Susan Richards (Gilles Gauthier) of Prince Albert and brother-in-law Lyle (Cathy) Lofgren of Kelowna.

Karl was born and raised in Vienna, Austria as an only child. Upon the advice of his father, he began training as an apprentice machinist at the age of 14 years. As a young adult, Karl learned that he had a sister in Canada and would fulfill his wish to emigrate to Canada in 1972. He initially stayed at the home of Mintie and David Braun in Steinbach, who took him under their wing. Karl was also kindly welcomed by the Barkman family of Steinbach as well as by Helen and Henry Voth and their family in the Grunthal area, and he cherished these connections.

Karl would eventually spend many happy years working as a machinist at Dixon Bayco (formerly Bay Bronze). There he made lifelong friends and after his retirement he would look forward to breakfast and coffee outings “with the boys”. The family would like to thank those who were able to visit him during his stay in hospital. Karl enjoyed those visits so much. The family would also like to acknowledge Karl’s longtime friend and fellow Austrian, Manfred Thaller, for his enduring friendship. We know Karl missed the weekly card games when he was in hospital.

Karl loved the movies and he was eagerly awaiting the Academy Awards, as he did each and every year. He credited movies and television with helping him to learn English when he arrived in Canada. Karl loved food and his family and friends enjoyed his signature dish, wiener schnitzel, on many occasions.

Karl also loved to travel and spent countless hours poring over maps and tour books planning trips. He and his family travelled extensively both in North America and Europe. He often said his dream job would have been as a travel agent or tour guide. He especially loved the scenery in Utah, Scotland and Hawaii, which he visited several times. Most recently, he was fortunate to travel to Austria and Switzerland in July, 2022 accompanied by his son Alexander.

Karl’s family would like to thank all the dedicated staff at St. Boniface Hospital, Seven Oaks Hospital and Donwood Manor. You do amazing work.

Karl, until we meet again, rest in peace.

Arrangements for a celebration of Karl’s life are pending.

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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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