Tribute

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Werner Johann Rettig, beloved husband, father and Opa. He died peacefully with his family at his side on Friday, June 8, 2012. He leaves behind his loving wife Carol of 55 years, 3 children: Nadine, Marilyn (Ben), Allen (Carolynn), and 6 grandchildren: Thomas, Frank, Linden, Mallory, Olivia and Erica. Also left to grieve are his brother Gunther (Selma) and family in Germany. Werner was born March 15,1931 in Rimbach, Germany to father Johannes and mother Ottilie. When he was a small child his family moved to Weinheim, Germany where Werner attended school and trained as an electrician. Werner immigrated to Canada by ship when he was just 20 years old, arriving in Halifax in November 1951. He worked his way west eventually settling for a few years in the town of Youbou where he found employment at BCFP. He met other German and Austrian immigrants and formed many lifelong friendships during those early days. Youbou is also where he met his soul mate Carol. The couple later moved to Honeymoon Bay where Werner was employed by WFI. In 1969, Werner and Carol finally settled on their own piece of paradise in the Lake Cowichan area. Werner was an industrial electrician by trade but he wore numerous hats. He built a sawmill, cut his own lumber, built his home, greenhouse, many outbuildings and pieces of furniture. He was an inventor and if he needed something, he could just manufacture it. After retiring he took a welding course, learned how to self publish and has 3 ebooks under several companies notably – xinxii.com (One more plug for you Dad). He never stopped learning. Aside from his family, he was most proud of his gardens. He was an amazing organic gardener feeding his family year round. In 1984 he won an award in the first Harrowsmith Garden Contest. He also developed his own organic fertilizer that he was eager to share with any like minded gardener. Werner was very family oriented and extremely proud and supportive of us all. He was hard working but always had the time to spend with us. We will dearly miss his stories, his laughter, his love of life and of us. He was a man of great integrity and intellect. After living through World War II as a young boy, his dearest wish has been for world peace. To us he was one in a million. Many thanks to Dr. Kerswell, Dr. Pewarchuk, Dr. Code and Lorene Benoit. The Lake Cowichan Fireman were amazing, as were the ambulance crew. Also thanks to the wonderful staff at Cowichan District Hospital. In celebration of Werner”s love of gardening, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that you plant something in your garden. A private gathering for family and friends will be held in Werner”s garden in July