Monday, November 4, 2013
Tribute to Harry Hinz Oct 30, 2013
First of all, our sincere condolences Gerda, Ushi, Peter and your families from Joe and myself as well as my mom Helga, brother Harry, sister Susie and our families. You said it right in Harry’s Obituary that “Heaven is getting a good man”
As a child my parents, Helga and Tony, became friends with Harry and Gerda and since we were all immigrants from Germany, their family was like relatives to us. Together with a number of other German “so called relatives” we had a lot of wonderful times together going to the beach, having picnics and other outings.
When my hubby Joe and I got married in 1970, there was Harry presenting us with bucket of cleaning products and some great and hilarious advice for the newlyweds. Harry always seemed to have a good sense of humor and as the years moved on Harry and Gerda became really close friends with my parents
Together they shared a love of the outdoors, hiking, biking and travelling. They also started a card playing night. Once a week they put a little “money in the kitty” and every couple of years or so planned a nice holiday to enjoy together. Even after my dad passed away in 2004, Gerda and Harry continued to play cards once a week with good friend Ormund and my mom until deteriorating health prevented them from continuing.
I always thought Gerda and Harry were a lovely, loving couple who knew how to have fun and enjoy life. As the years went on, unfortunately Harry developed some serious heart problems and underwent bypass surgeries. I was running a cardiac rehabilitation program at the time and before too long, Harry joined our Coquitlam medically supervised cardiac exercise classes.
Harry really was an inspiration to many of us at the class. Not loud or demanding he was a positive force in the class. He was faithful to his program and became surprisingly fit. It was his determination and positive attitude and ability to have a little fun that I believe gave him many more quality years of life. I really admired that about him.
It makes me sad to know that Harry is gone. He was a special person. I know it’s hard to lose someone you love but I hope the wonderful memories we have of Harry will live on in our hearts.
Love Gabby
