GOMKE, William (Bill)

March 22,1920-August 24,2012 William Gomke passed away peacefully on August 24,2012 at the Beverly Centre Glenmore extended care facility in Calgary.

He was predeceased by his first wife Margaret (Wiebe) of 28 years in 1978, two brothers Edward & Henry and three sisters Olga (Aman), Emma (Dickhaut) and Edith (Wolfely). He is survived by his four children Terry (Linda), Ivan, Reginald (Mary), Karen (Murray Van Maarion); Ten grandchildren: Julie, Matthew (Christie), Kyle, Jordan; Krista; Nicole & Michelle; Kelsi, Travis & Tristan; and two great grandchildren: Abby & Cole. Bill was also survived by two sisters; Elsie Schneider & Tilley Martin, numerous nieces & nephews and his second wife Eunice. Bill was born March 22,1920 to Louise and Emmanuel Gomke where he grew up and farmed near Schuler Alberta, and then went on to work for The Department of Highways (Alberta Transportation) in Medicine Hat, later transferring to the Duchess Highways District Office where he oversaw the area maintenance of Highways #1 (Trans Canada) and #36, along with the ferries and bridges on the Bow and Red Deer Rivers for 32 years. In 1950 Bill married Margaret Wiebe, he was very active in the Duchess community, volunteering for many causes. In 1982 upon retirement, he moved to Medicine Hat, where he enjoyed gardening,woodworking,dancing and playing cards. Before moving to Calgary, Bill stayed at the Sunny Side Nursing Home, where he made special friends, teased the nurses and staff, played games and was always laughing and joking with everyone. The family would like to extend a big Thank You to all the staff for the care and understanding given to our Father. We Love You Dad, Grandpa, may you rest in Peace! A Memorial (Celebration of Bill’s Life) will be held at the Medicine Hat Legion (702- 2nd St S.E. Medicine Hat) on Saturday Oct 6, 2012, from 1:00 – 4:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.