Obituary of Oscar Kretchman

KRETCHMAN: Oscar Kretchman, resident of Rideau Park Personal Care Home, passed away at the Brandon Regional Health Centre on Sunday, May 22, 2011. Oscar was born April 27, 1925 in Monterrey, Mexico, in 1928 his family immigrated to Luscar, Alberta. Two years later they moved to the Nesibtt area, where he attended Minnewawa School and Nesbitt School. Oscar enjoyed sports and friends during his school years, but in grade ten he had to leave school, to help with the farm and he worked hard. In 1960, he married Erna Wolfe and they had three children; Lori, Eric and Alan. Oscar, Erna and Lori enjoyed three trips to Europe visiting cousins in Germany. Many times through the years he was called on to play Santa Claus in the community. Oscar enjoyed attending open houses for coffee and treats. If he got a free hat out of the deal that was a bonus! He had a collection of over 600 hats. He was an active member of the Nesbitt Pool Elevators, he also served as a councillor for Oakland Municipality and was a member of his church. His grandchildren brought him great pleasure, he enjoyed taking part in their birthday celebrations, meeting their friends, watching their activities and school plays. Later he would light up to see his great grandson, Ryley. The family will miss Grampa's sense of humor and quick wit. He is survived by his wife, Erna, daughter Lori (Vern) Johnson, grandchildren, Brett and Julia of Calgary; son Eric (Shelley) Kretchman, grandchildren Karlee, Ryan and Lyndon and great grandson Ryley of Brandon. He was predeceased by his parents, Ernest and Olga, brother Henry and infant son Alan. A celebration of his life was held at the Redeemer Lutheran Church on Thursday, May 26, 2011 with Pastor Jason Zinko officiating. Pallbearers were Ryan and Lyndon Kretchman, Kelly Hill, Myron Krawchuk, Kerry Wolfe and Martin Mailman. The family would like to thank everyone who traveled far and near to attend his funeral.