In loving memory of…

Heinrich “Henry” Debre, resident of the Teepee Creek, AB, and Sexsmith, AB, communities, formerly of Edmonton, AB, Valleyview, AB, Sunset House, AB, as well as Pritchard, BC, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, with his wife and family by his side in Grande Prairie, at the age of 88 years.

Heinrich was born in Beli Manastir, Yugoslavia, on January 10, 1932. He was raised in Yugoslavia and had many fond childhood memories that he shared of the beautiful countryside. During WWII, his family was sent to live in Germany, where he remained until he and his family immigrated to Canada in 1953. During such a traumatic time in history, Heinrich and other children helped with the wartime efforts in ways such as picking Mulberry leaves to feed the silkworms, whose silk was then harvested to be used in the making of parachutes for the troops. More formal schooling was not a priority at that time.

Before leaving Germany, Heinrich got his Painting Degree in Munich, a 3-year program, and used those skills for the rest of his working years.

Shortly after the long and tedious boat ride across the Atlantic to the safe shores of Canada, Heinrich met the love of his life, Alvina Irma Mattheis. His charm, bright sparkling blue eyes, and mischievous handsome smile swept her off her feet. Their marriage in 1958 produced 3 children: Rene, Robert, and Karen; and lasted over 62 years! They became homesteaders in Sunset House, which resulted in long hours and back-breaking work, with numerous rewards for a family with the love of nature and the land.

Heinrich had many interests over the years, including but not limited to skiing and cycling in the Alps, playing on multiple soccer teams with international players in Edmonton, hunting and fishing in Alberta and British Columbia, curling in Valleyview, and farming. Farming was more than a job to Henry; it was a passion. He loved his livestock and would watch over his cows for long periods of time, ensuring the best lives for them that he could provide. His love of nature has been passed on to his children and grandchildren.

Throughout his life, Heinrich was well known and remembered for his charm and quick wit. He was a very perceptive, proud man. Those traits, along with his eye for detail, gave him a reputation of having great workmanship. He also had an appreciation for the finer things in life; beauty, fine jewelry, wine, dance, and great food – especially his wife’s cooking and baking!

He will be greatly missed by his loving wife Irma; son Rene (Sandra) and grandson Kyle of Airdrie, AB; son Robert (Donna) of Sexsmith and grandchildren: Rebecca, Matthew, Rachael, and Mark; and Karen (Tim) Tarita and grandchildren: Kristian (Brooke), Jamie-lee, Kiara; and step-grandchild Russel; as well as his youngest brother Mathias (Mickey) Debre.

He was predeceased by his father and mother, Mathias and Katharina Debre; and his brother Adam Debre.

A small public Celebration of Heinrich’s life will be held on Saturday, November 21, 2020, and 11:00am at the Faith Lutheran Church in Grande Prairie (9610 108 Ave.).