July 21, 1934 - January 17, 2019
Our family sadly announces the passing of Horst Georg Bieberbach at the age of 84, in Crofton, BC.
Horst was born in Berlin, Germany to Martha and Franz Bieberbach. Horst was an only child who spent a great deal of his childhood with cousins. Horst's father was taken away by Russian soldiers during the 2nd World War, leaving him to be raised by his Mom. After completing elementary and finishing school, he went on to become a journeyman cabinet maker in Berlin.
He met his wife, Siegrid, at a cousin's birthday party in 1951 where he played the accordion. In September 1954, Horst moved to Canada and Siegrid followed 8 months later. They settled in Regina, Sask. where they married and started a family. Work and opportunity of building their dream home eventually led them to Fruitvale, BC.
Horst loved music; he would always be singing or whistling a tune. Horst and Siegrid learned to square dance, which helped them to meet new people and get a better understanding of the English language. Later they became square dance callers and instructors well into their 70's. He'd often call it, "Friendship set to Music!"
Horst, affectionately known as Opi, is survived by his children Detlef (Charlotte); Dagmar (Philip); Cornelia (Jim); Iris (Leo); grandchildren Stephanie, Jeffrey, Desmond, Christina, Jason, Dustin, Stephen, and Kevin, as well as 9 great-grandchildren Tony, Landon, Lori, Zoey, Liam, Abbygail, Annaliese, Markus and Hanna. Predeceased by his loving wife of 59 years Siegrid, and grandson Darren.
Special thanks to the many friends and community support personnel who checked-in on Horst over the past year while living at home.
As per Horst's wishes, a private Family Celebration will be held.