HORST HAAGE

HORST HAAGE
It is with great sadness and profound loss that we announce the passing of Horst Haage, our beloved father, grandfather, family member, neighbour and friend. Horst passed away peacefully at the age of 83, on September 10, 2026 at the Foothills Hospital, with his daughter, Diana, at his side.
Horst was born the youngest of five siblings during World War II in Troppau, now Opava, Czech Republic. At the end of the war, his mother fled with him as a toddler and his only sister westwards from the Red Army to start a new life near Munich, Germany. They were later joined by his father and two surviving brothers. As a young man, he was fascinated by the opportunities, size, beauty and culture of Canada, and sailed to Halifax in 1966 without speaking a word of English. Moving westwards and eventually settling in Calgary, Elkwater (near Medicine Hat) and the Foothills, he stayed for the rest of his life in the country and among the people he loved.
Horst was passionate about the hospitality industry and was determined to be self-employed. Horst followed his dreams when he owned and operated a restaurant, grocery store, post office and laundromat in Elkwater in Cypress Hills Provincial Park for many years. Besides good food and hot coffee, he provided a place where people gathered, friendships were made, stories were shared, and laughter was always welcome. He took pride in preparing and sharing his delicious homemade bratwurst, schnitzels, and his unforgettable turkey dinners. He loved seeing people enjoy a good meal, but what he cherished most was the opportunity to sit down, visit, laugh, and spend time with others.
He was deeply loved and cherished by his family, who will forever treasure the countless memories they shared with him; his kindness, his laughter, his wisdom, his bright smile and the love he so freely gave. Among his friends and neighbours, he was known for his friendly, generous and easygoing nature. His presence brought comfort and joy to those around him, and his absence leaves a profound emptiness that cannot be filled.
He is sorely missed and will be forever loved and remembered. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends and the many people whose lives he touched throughout the years. He may no longer be here to welcome us through his doors, share a laugh, or sit down for a visit, but the warmth of his kindness and the love he gave so freely will remain with us always. Horst was predeceased by his father, Josef; mother, Hedwig, his brothers; Herbert, Arthur and Bruno and his sister, Irmgard. Horst is survived by his son, Roland (Claudia), daughter, Diana (Jason), and Grandchildren, Charlotte, Olivia, Henry and Justin.
A memorial service will be held at Snodgrass Funeral Home in Okotoks on October 17th at 1:00 pm, 403-938-3111.
To send condolences, please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly request donations be made to Sheep River Health Trust.