Hans Rudwaleit, retired Assistant Chief of the Victoria Fire Department, passed away on Saturday, October 8, 2022, at the age of 82, after courageously coping with Parkinson's Disease. Hans reached the summit of his life with his wife and soulmate, Liz, by his side, and all of his loved ones supporting him.
Hans lived his life with strength, stamina and dignity. He was born in Germany on September 9, 1940. As a young child, he made the dangerous trek from East to West Germany with his grandmother. He trained in his teens as a heavy equipment mechanic, and then worked for NATO. At age 19, he immigrated to Canada by himself in search of a new life.
Hans was always spontaneous and adventurous. He skied many mountain slopes; traveled to numerous warm destinations, (his favourite of which was Tahiti); and even owned his own nightclub in downtown Victoria called the Surfside.
Hans also had a knack for property development, and he designed and built a home on the top of Topaz Ave. where he and Liz lived for 33 years.
Though Hans enjoyed big projects, he also loved the simple pleasures of life, such as going for drives, stopping at local restaurants for coffee and a bite to eat, and especially talking and laughing with those he met.
Hans was also the man everyone called upon in an emergency. His 30-year career with the Victoria Fire Department demonstrated his steadfastness, bravery and commitment to those he served.
Hans is survived by his wife: Liz; his children: Monika, Desiree and son in-law Russel, Peter, and Elizabeth; his grandchildren: Miikka, Winter, Hailey, Rhys and Ronyn; and his brothers: Hubert and Henry.
Hans will be profoundly missed.
Friends and family are invited to share in a celebration of life this Saturday, October 15 from 2 PM to 4 PM at 408, 777 Herald Street, Victoria B.C. (There is a digital intercom on the building’s outer lobby door. The listing is under Hans and Liz).
COMPARTA UN OBITUARIO
v.1.9.5