Walter Edward Gitzel Obituary in Grande Prairie at Oliver's Funeral Home & Crematorium

Obituaries

Walter Edward Gitzel

June 10, 1938 - November 02, 2019

Obituary For Walter Edward Gitzel

Walter Edward Gitzel “Papa Bear”, resident of Grande Prairie, formerly of Bezanson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 2, 2019, in Grande Prairie, AB, at the age of 81 years.

Walter was born June 10, 1938 in Debolt, AB. He was an outfitter, guide, farmer and trapper. Walter was also a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

He will be sadly missed by his wife Irene Gitzel; children: Travis Gitzel (Diane and family); grandchildren: Lane Gitzel (Alexis); Karl and Barb Siemens and family; and sister Alice Palser.

He was predeceased by his father Otto Gitzel, mother Emma Gitzel, brother Donald Gitzel, sister Florence Givens, and sister Loreen Goebel.

The family would like to thank the staff of 5 North at QEII Hospital for their incredible support and dedication to Walter’s care.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, November 6, 2019, at 1:00pm at Bezanson Community Church (9801 103 St.).

Memorial donations may be made to Peace Country Wilderness Camps (711038 B RR 52, County of Grande Prairie #1, AB, T8W 5A2, www.pcwc.ca), or to the charity of one’s choice.

Services

6 Nov

Funeral Service

13:00 PM

Bezanson Community Church , Get Directions »

by Obituary Assistant

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Condolences

June 24, 2021

Dunbar Rod

Our sincere condolences. Thinking of you. Rod and Linda Dunbar.
June 24, 2021

Hildebrand Ed and Terry

So sorry to hear this Irene. Walter was very special. Wish we could be there for his service, know our hearts and prayers are with you all.
June 24, 2021

Siebert James

Dear Mrs. Gitzel, Travis, and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. We so appreciated the time Mr. Gitzel gave to us every two years when we brought International students up to the Peace Country from the U of Alberta in Edmonton. He told us all about his trapper's life and showed us his furs. This was the first time these students learned about these things and he did a great job. May God comfort you all. Praying for you. James Siebert
June 24, 2021

Thorpe Bradley Laura

So sorry for your loss. I remember Walter as being a very friendly and helpful neighbour to mom and dad. He will be sadly missed.
June 24, 2021

Bates Carol

Walter May be not with us in flesh. But his spirit and memories will be with us forever. We enjoyed the stories told sitting around the dining room table. We will miss his input into the stories of the guys in the bush. Condolences & prayers Irene , family & friends.
June 24, 2021

Trottier Dale (Trapper)

I am sorry for your loss but there will be years of memories to cherish. . May friends and family be close by for you.
June 24, 2021

Frey Mike and Gail

Irene So sorry to hear of your loss. We always remember the great laughs we had whenever we met. Walter always had a good story to share. We will miss him. We are away so will not be able to share our memories with you tomorrow. May he now rest in peace Mike and Gail Frey
June 24, 2021

Edey Sandra

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this difficult time. May God Bless you and you know he is there for you. From Vic and Sandy Edey

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