Charles Steinke

Charles, or Charlie as he was called by family and friends, was born in Schlochau, East Germany on July 16, 1928. His parents Karl and Anna Steinke, sister Brigitte, brother Hans and Charlie moved to Barmstedt, West Germany. He served in the Armed Forces of Germany and was a prisoner of war for a brief time. After his release, he worked for the Post Office.

In 1953, he immigrated to Alberta, Canada, where he worked on a farm near Hanna. In 1955, he moved to Calgary, sending for Irma and Margrit to come from Germany. They both worked hard to make a comfortable life for themselves and eventually started a business, Lux Windows and Glass. Although it was a struggle in the beginning, they turned it into a very successful venture, with windows shipped all over Canada, and even Hawaii and Japan. They sold the family business and ventured into retirement.

Charles enjoyed hunting and had a passion for fishing. After their retirement, Charles and Irma traveled the world. They went on two world cruises as well as cruises to Australia and the South Pacific. Charlie sadly lost Irma to a battle with cancer in 2003.

In time, Charlie reconnected with a long time friend, Margarete. They decided they wanted to enjoy their time together singing in the choir, traveling, and playing cards with friends, participating in many events at the German Canadian Club and so much more. He enjoyed spending time with Margarete’s children, grand-child, great grand-children and their families.

Charles was the happiest when he could wear his oldest worn out clothes and work in his garden.

He had to be reminded to change his clothes and get a haircut, for which of course he never had time so, Margarete became his personal hairstylist for many years. She is now thinking of going for her license!

Charlie was able to live his life just as he had wanted, living in his family home and enjoying every moment. He passed away peacefully on September 7, 2019 after a day of digging out potatoes in his garden and mowing the lawn, and then just sitting down for a rest in his favorite kitchen chair.

Charles is survived by his daughter Margrit Owen (Calgary), and Brigitte (husband Manfred) Schulz (Germany) along with niece Kerstin and nephew Falko. He is lovingly remembered by Margarete Otto and her extended family.

A Memorial Service will be held at FOSTER’S GARDEN CHAPEL, 3220 – 4 Street NW, Calgary (across from Queen’s Park Cemetery) on Thursday, September 19, 2019 at 2:00 pm, with the Reverend Markus Zeuch officiating. Interment will follow at a later date.

Sleep well Charlie.