He was the oldest of 5 children. He spent his youth looking over his brothers and sisters as the big older brother. His love for them was so important to him. And this love was evident throughout his entire life with his own family and kids, numerous coworkers over the many years and his many friends and acquaintances.
He worked as a roofer for many years. Starting his career when he was 16 starting to work for his uncle Oscar at Superior roofing. Then he quit roofing and came to Alberta for a few years to work on the pipeline. He moved to Winnipeg after and started working again as a roofer with Mid-way sales then eventually moving over to Flynn roofing.
In 1968 he met Bev Satre at a party in Winnipeg and was married on June 7 1969. He asked her if she would like to go for a milkshake, and that ignited their relationship and 55 year marriage. They moved to Regina in 1975 and Henry continued to work for Flynn in Regina where he finished his career of 43 years with them and retirement at 65. He was a friend and mentor to many in the construction industry. His humour, kindness and willingness to teach and ensure the next generation of tradesman was prepared to succeed on their own was so apparent.
He had three children Lee, Evan and Aaron. He loved each of them fiercely and to the very end. He cared so deeply for each of his grandchildren. Cuddles on the couch, time to read to littles, and letting them sleep in his arms. He showed boundless love for each of them. His love for animals was so evident, he was kind and gentle and was a magnet for all types of pets. He was a scouting leader for many years and was happy to mentor kids that did not have a father figure at home. Today some still call him Scouter Henry. He loved his stamp collection and spend hours patiently sorting and cataloging them. He was a social butterfly, but happy to sit quietly at a table at soak in the chaos and conversation at functions. His crib skills were second to none – always a deck of cards ready and a crib board to choose from, a weekend was not complete without a friendly game or 3.
He was a creative and skilled carpenter. Evidence of his handiwork are everywhere throughout their home and his picture frames are hung lovingly in the homes of family members. From bunk beds to bookcases, helping build decks, sheds or garages, shelving to picture frames, his creativity and talent is everywhere.
Everyone loved Henry. Family events were just that, events. He could eat, and he would eat. Always appreciative and willing to wash those dishes at the end. He was a figurehead at our tables and that chair is going to be hard to fill. His heart was big enough for everybody.
Henry is predeceased by his parents John and Catherine and his sister May. He is survived by his wife Beverley; children Lee, Evan and Aaron; 7 grandchildren: Catherine, Drew, Quinn, Brandon, Jozelynn, Stensen, and Lydia; siblings Dave, Ed, and Margaret; and many nieces and nephews.
A funeral service will be held on Friday August 2, 2024 at 2:00 pm at the Trinity Lutheran Church, 1909 Ottawa Street, Regina, SK.
All donations for Henry are gratefully accepted to the Lac Que Parle church in lieu of flowers. Bev and Henry were married there and wish to help care for the property as it is a part of our family history and holds many great memories. Please include mailing address for tax receipt.
Contact Sherry Hansen-Stepp at
Box 95 Torquay Sask, S0C2L0 and [email protected]
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