ERWIN GERHARD KLOSE

ERWIN GERHARD KLOSE
Erwin Gerhard Klose of Medicine Hat, beloved husband of the late Elila “Lily” Klose, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the age of 94 years. Born on March 19, 1932, in Soldin, Germany, Erwin was the son of Hedwig and Erich Klose. Following the Second World War, he immigrated to Canada in 1953, beginning a new chapter of his life in a country that would become home. Erwin’s faith in Jesus was very important to him and guided his life. It was through Grace Baptist Church, which welcomed and sponsored many German immigrants in the post-war years, that he met Elila, the love of his life and his one and only girlfriend. Through 70 years of marriage together they built a wonderful life, raising four daughters and creating a home filled with family, faith, and memories. After spending several months working on a local farm, Erwin joined Wahl Construction, where he enjoyed a long and fulfilling career, eventually becoming company foreman and supervisor. He took great pride in his trade and shared his knowledge by marking exams and projects for the Alberta Apprenticeship Board for students working toward their certification as carpenters. Erwin built all our family homes himself, leaving behind not only the houses he constructed, but also the many memories made within their walls. Following his retirement, Erwin and Elila enjoyed travelling together, spending many winters as snowbirds in Palm Springs. These years offered them time to explore, relax, and enjoy each other’s company.
Erwin was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elila, in September 2024; his sons-in-law, Roger Friesen and Emil Gutsche; his parents, Hedwig and Erich; his brother, Karl in infancy; his brother, Arno, who died during the war, and his stepmother, Elsie. He leaves behind his four daughters and their families: Renita (Ian) Graham and their children, Nicholas (Melissa) and Holly; Karen Friesen and her children, Keith (Karalee) and Brent (Janae); Norma Gutsche and her children, Andrew and Rebecca; and Marnie (Rick) Burry and their son, Mark (Jill). He is also lovingly remembered by his five great-grandchildren, his brother, Bernd (Bill) in British Columbia; two brothers-in-law; one sister-in-law, and numerous nieces and nephews. Erwin will be remembered for his strong faith, his dedication to his family, his craftsmanship, and the life he built through hard work, perseverance, and love. His legacy lives on in the homes he built, the knowledge he shared, and, most importantly, the generations of family who will continue to cherish his memory. A private family interment will take place. A service to honour Erwin’s memory will be held in the PATTISON FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATION OF LIFE CENTRE on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The service will be live streamed. Those who wish to attend virtually, please visit Erwin’s obituary page on our website for the link. In lieu of flowers, donations in Erwin’s memory may be made to The Canadian Gideons: The Gideons International in Canada (P.O. Box 3619, Guelph, ON N1H 7A2). To leave a message of condolence you may visit www.pattisonfuneralhome.com.

PATTISON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORIUM 540 South Railway St. SE, Medicine Hat T1A 4C2