Friedhelm Lach

Friedhelm is survived by his wife of 58 years, Edith, his daughter Silke (and John Jacques), his granddaughters Maya and Elfie, and by numerous relatives in Germany and many cherished friends and former students.

He had a distinguished career as an artist, writer and professor of German literature at the Université de Montréal. He was a specialist on Dadaism and Kurt Schwitters. He travelled to most corners of the world, and collected beautiful old objects and books that connected him to other times and places. He was also a great sports enthusiast, cheering on the Canadiens, and loved watching tennis and soccer matches.

Throughout his life, he loved to draw, paint and sculpt. There have been numerous exhibitions of his artworks in Europe and in North and South America. He has won art prizes and is a member of the Royal Canadian Academy of Arts. His artworks reflect his gentle spirit and are often inspired by nature, in particular the oceans, sand dunes, trees, and birds’ nests that he loved.

Friedhelm was known to all as a kind, warm-hearted, enthusiastic, fun-loving, and creative man. He thoroughly enjoyed good food, music, and company, but was also at times introspective and simply happy to be quietly immersed in his art. His was a life well lived.

His funeral service will be held this Saturday, Sept. 21 at 2 p.m. at the Saint Lambert United Church, 85 boul. Desaulniers. A reception will follow.

Your presence is gift enough.