Obituary of Walter Dietz

Walter Dietz was born at home on his parent's farm near Forestburg, Alberta Feb. 2, 1929 and passed away peacefully with his wife by his side on May 5th, 2015. Walter was one of twelve children born to Fred and Katerina. He grew up knowing hard work on the farm and that shaped his work ethic throughout his entire life. He went to school in Galahad and from there attended the Vermilion School of Agriculture. He then furthered his education at the University of Alberta and earned a B.Sc. in Agriculture. After completing his education, he worked in various capacities for the Department of Agriculture. Walter and Doreen were married in 1958. They raised three children: Leslie, Elaine, and Myron. While their children were young, Walter went back to university and obtained his M.Sc. in Animal Nutrition. At the time of his retirement in 1987, Walter had been the Regional Livestock Specialist for North Eastern Alberta for over 30 years. His early interest in computers was an important driver in both his work and personal life. Walter served the communities he lived in. He applied his strong work ethic and determination to many community projects and organizations: Town Councillor, chairman of the Church board, initiator of the Coronation Fair, Boy Scouts leader, member of the Vermilion Band, 4-H leader and judge, chairman of the Alberta Seniors Games, granting committee member for the Alberta Recreation Parks and Wildlife Foundation, and he was the visionary and primary driver behind the move and refurbishment of the CN station into the Vermilion Provincial Park. He was a committed member of the Masonic Lodge for over 50 years. He enjoyed physical activity, healthy living, and the outdoors. He actively participated in curling, cross country skiing, biking, and slow pitch. He also enjoyed the creative outlet of woodworking and music. His four grandchildren were a source of great joy and pleasure. Walter is survived by his wife and best friend Doreen, of 58 years, and their children: Leslie, Elaine (Grant Kuefler), and Myron (Lisa Gieg). He also leaves four adored grandchildren, Justine Kuefler, Mitchell Kuefler, Rayna Dietz, and Thea Dietz. He is also survived by his brothers Alfred, Herb, and Arnold and sisters Emelia, Edna, and Evelyn. He was predeceased by his infant son Walter McMahon Dietz, his parents, his brother Henry, and sisters Bertha, Mary, Maggie, and Lydia. A Funeral Service was held Monday, May 11, 2015 at 1:00 p.m. from the Burgar Memorial Chapel with Rev. Brian Hunter officiating. A private family burial will take place in the Galahad Cemetery. If family and friends so desire, memorial contributions are gratefully accepted to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Camrose United Church, or the Bethany Crossroads Day Program.