JOHN SCHATZ

1923 - 2008

John J. Schatz, beloved husband of Helen Schatz of Foremost, passed away in Lethbridge on Thursday, October 16, 2008 at the age of 85 years.

A private burial service was held at the Foremost Cemetery.

He is survived by Helen, his wife of fifty nine years and their children Dennis (Glenda) Schatz of Foremost and Dianna (Andy) Zsomber of Coalhurst. He will be fondly remembered by his five grandchildren Cam (Sheri) Harrison and their daughter Cassidy; Jason (Michelle) Harrison and their daughter Sasha; Carie (Mike) Swatske and their children Tye and Aya; Lee (Lesley) Schatz and their children Cailey, Amber and Brodie; Kim Schatz.

He was predeceased by his parents and all of his brothers and sisters.

John was born October 3, 1923 on his father’s farm north of Foremost. John served as a member of the Canadian Army from 1943 to 1946. He began farming on his own in 1948 and on May 12, 1949 he married Helen Rarick. Together they established the farm where he resided until his passing. John was always busy on the farm and took pride in keeping the yard looking nice. He spent countless hours restoring antique tractors and machinery as well as tending to the flowers, trees and grass. As a result of these efforts John and Helen won the Farm Beautification Award in 1978. Grandpa Johnny loved his dogs and horses. He built and restored horse drawn carriages and buggies and was especially proud of his four horse Belgian Show Hitch. John actively farmed until 2005 and continued to help until his passing.