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GOERTZ

Rev. Lester M.


After a long, courageous battle with cancers, and spending precious time with family at his side, our beloved husband, father and grandfather, Les Goertz, passed away peacefully at home February 2, 2016, aged 76. Born March 5, 1939 in Waldheim, SK, Les relocated as a young boy to the Fraser Valley with his family. In 1962, he married the love of his life, Vernagean Nelson in Vancouver, BC. They raised three children while living in various cities in BC and Washington State. An ordained minister, Les pastored for over 40 years at churches in Canada and the USA, counselled and mentored many individuals, conducted seminars in North America and overseas, established hospice programs at hospitals, and advised businesspeople and elected officials. He graduated from Bethany Bible College and earned a master's degree in ministry from Trinity Western University. Les founded Church Evangelism Ministries and later authored and published 'Not-Yet-Christian', a book about the stages people go through in their journey of faith. He had a great passion for people - he enjoyed spending time talking over a cup of hot chocolate or while 'fitting puzzle' or rooting for the Canucks. Les was especially proud of his grandchildren and loved to cheer them on at their events, rain or shine. Predeceased by his parents, Jacob and Katherine (Berg) Goertz, and his brothers-in-law, Dave Bergstrom and Doug Nelson, Les is survived by his wife of over 53 years, Vernagean (Nelson) Goertz, daughter Christine (Tom) Nichols, son Mike (Kristen) Goertz, daughter Camille (Phil) Goddard, grandchildren Jacob, Olivia, Grace, Kristen, Heidi, Jillian, and great-granddaughter Airlyn. Also survived by sister Elma Bergstrom, brothers Cliff (Norma) Goertz and Ray (Denise) Goertz, sisters-in-law Cheryl Nelson, Cathy (Dennis) Stromme, Dianne (Rod) Neufeld, Janet Sabados, and brothers-in-law Curt (Patrice) Nelson and Brad (Julie) Nelson, aunts Annie Goertz, Alma Goertz and Leona Goertz, uncles Ed Goertz and Herman Berg, numerous nieces and nephews, a large extended family, and a far reaching network of people who came into contact with Les over the years and who loved him - he loved them back dearly. Many thanks to the doctors and healthcare professionals who supported Les over the years, especially this past month. We take comfort in knowing that his journey in eternity continues and that he is rejoicing with those who have gone on before. Please join us in celebrating his life. A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 13, 1:00 pm, at Abbotsford Pentecostal Assembly (south bldg.), 3145 Gladwin Road, Abbotsford, BC, followed by a reception at Cedar Brook Baptist Church (north bldg. at same address). A Visitation was held on Thursday, February 11, at Woodlawn Funeral Home. Online condolences to the family may be made at www.woodlawnfh-abbotsford.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Church Evangelism Ministries (CEM) or a charity of your choice.

Woodlawn Funeral Home 604-853-2643



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