Obituary of Henry Niehaus

On Thursday, May 27, 2010 Henry Niehaus passed away at the age of 83 in the Daysland Hospital, surrounded by family. Henry was born October 16, 1926 in Strome, Alberta - oldest son of John and Marie Niehaus. He married Eileen Froehler July 31, 1951. They moved to the farm south of Strome, where they resided for 48 years. He farmed with his dad and brothers, then later with his sons. In 1999 they moved to Daysland. Always a farmer at heart, rising early with the birds, he continued to help Maurice with the chores after visiting with the guys at Daysland Auto and Farm and at Grimes' Service. He loved to chat with people and hear what they had to say. He could strike up a conversation and "shoot the breeze" with anyone. His positive outlook on life was a gift to all who knew him. Faith and family were especially important to Henry - he valued family gatherings with his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Fun was had at birthday parties, wiener roasts, graduations, and celebrations of any kind. He also liked to "just stop by" for a visit. He loved his horses and dogs. One of his proudest accomplishments was the raising and breaking of his team of horses. He delighted in giving wagon or sleigh rides to all who desired one. Many good times were spent, with his family, making the signature family recipe for liver sausage. Once he moved to town he took up his passion for cooking full time and he enjoyed watching cooking shows, game shows and baseball on TV. Henry loved to drive wherever the road would take him, whether it was checking crops, going on a Sunday day trip sightseeing, or traveling with the 5th wheel. Many hours were spent touring Alberta and beyond following grandchildren in their sports activities, especially their ball games. He loved the sun and was often seen shirtless whether at some hot springs, riding his horse or relaxing outside having a Pilsner or a Kokanee. He truly enjoyed the beauty of nature using the sights and sounds around him to predict the weather. Henry is survived by his wife Eileen of 58 years; children Denise (Grant), Rosalie (Helmut), Germaine (Jan Olaf), Colette (Tom), John (Bev), Bryan (Alison), Jacqueline (Jim), Maurice (Susan); 24 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; siblings Genevieve, Dorothy (Melvin), Michael (Donna), Phyllis (Leander), Patricia (Dennis), Gilbert (Pat); sisters-in-law Eileen Birkjar and Lydia Niehaus. He was predeceased by his parents John and Marie; sister Rita and brothers Leander and George. He will be missed and forever remembered by his family and friends. The family wishes to express their appreciation for everyone's kindness and support. If you so desire, memorial contributions may be made to the Daysland Hospital Foundation, Providence Place, Daysland or to the charity of your choice. A Prayer Vigil was held on Sunday, May 30, 2010 at 7:00 p.m. from Our Lady of The Prairies Roman Catholic Church Daysland. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Monday, May 31, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Leon Kler as Celebrant. Interment will follow in the Daysland Cemetery.