July 1, 1941 - October 25, 2021
In memory of our beloved Husband, Father, and Friend ~
Gerhard Josef Rauch of Abbotsford BC, at age 80, passed away peacefully on October 25th 2021. He passed away while in the Abbotsford Hospital from complications related to a previous surgery.
Gerhard was born in Bad Homburg, Germany to Friedrich and Anna Rauch. Gerhard's dad passed away at 34 from pneumonia, leaving behind wife Anna (36), Gerhard (7), and his younger twin brother and sister Wolfgang and Ursula (both 2 years old). Post war Germany was challenging, but Gerhard made the most of things, enjoying the freedom and adventure of teenage life.
At 19 Gerhard met the love of his life Helga (who was almost 17). Helga and Gerhard married while Gerhard was in university, and soon after Gerhard completed a degree in Mechanical Engineering. They honeymooned in Canada, living with Gerhard's cousin in New Westminster. The draw of North America took hold and they never returned to Germany.
As new immigrants, Gerhard and Helga built a life in Canada, eventually having two sons Jeff and Mike. During the 1970's Gerhard's career developed as he transitioned from engineering to management jobs, eventually starting his own business together with Henry Neels, aptly named Helton Industries, honouring their wives Helga and Tona. By the early '90s Gerhard and Helga's sons entered the now successful business, and together they grew to one of North America's most successful garage door companies.
Gerhard was a very detailed person. Never leaving things to chance, but always ensuring good preparation for the best possible outcome. Gerhard enjoyed hunting, fishing, and everything outdoors. He was an avid mariner, completing two trips to Alaska, and countless miles exploring River's Inlet and beyond on their boat "Hokolo". More than anything, Gerhard loved his wife Helga and his sons Jeff and Mike. He was a beloved husband and father. The best there is.
A Funeral Service will be held at St James Catholic Church, 2777 Townline Rd, Abbotsford on Friday November 12th at 10:30 am.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to: BC Wildlife Foundation: at www.bcwf.bc.ca and support Gerhard's love for nature or to: Hydrocephalus Canada at: www.mybrainwaves.ca and support awareness and research for the condition that Gerhard suffered with.