Herbert C. Franzmann
Jan 25, 1926 – Jan 25, 2015
Peacefully, at home, we mourn the loss of a beloved and great man. He is survived by his wife, Calista, of 62 years; children Don (Katherine), Jamie (Evelyn), Terry (Sandy), Mona (Dave) and Charlene; 11 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren; countless nieces & nephews and 2 sister-in-laws. Herb was predeceased by his parents, Harry & Edith Franzmann and was the youngest of nine children (Connie, Gordon, Madeline, Kenneth, Phyllis, Myra, Audrey & Laurie).
Born and raised in Fannystelle, Manitoba, he attended Maplestead School, Fannystelle High School and the University of Manitoba receiving a Diploma in Agriculture. He joined the Royal Canadian Air Force in 1942 and was ready for deployment as a Flight Engineer Sergeant when WWII was declared over. He then returned to Fannystelle to farm with his father and three brothers.
Herb met and quickly married Calista then farmed for several years prior to Herb working for Veteran’s Affairs. This job took his growing family to Beausejour, Winnipeg, Ottawa and Saskatoon. After 25 years, in 1983, Herb retired as the Director General for Western Canada’s Veterans Land Act at which time he and Calista moved back to Winnipeg then later to Carman, Manitoba.
Not only was Herb active in the lives of his own children & grandchildren but also that of their friends, neighbourhoods & communities. Involvement included such things as coaching or managing baseball & hockey; Curling Club President and Canadian Power Toboggan Race Committee (Beausejour); Melrose CC President (East Kildonan); and head of the building committee for the Carman Active Living Centre.
In between fun-filled camping adventures with his family, Herb’s talents prevailed with multiple home constructions, renovations and repairs; woodworking projects and gardening. He was always occupied playing pool, golfing, curling, shuffle boarding, carpet bowling and quick to help his nephews in the fields. When he could no longer jump on the farm machinery, he jumped on his scooter, racing those up to the challenge.
Herb had a great sense of humour, was quick and witty and was famous for his “little sayings”. A great story teller, he held a room when he spoke and did so with joy and a sparkle in his eye. Many stories were preserved in a self-published account of life on the farm entitled Southwest of 36 – Life in the Dirty Thirty Olden Days.
Herb’s strong morals and values have been an inspiration for many. Always rich in love, humour and spirit, he will remain in our hearts and souls forever.
Funeral service to be held at Carman United Church Tuesday, February 3rd at 2pm. In lieu of flowers, Memorial donations can be made to the Heart & Stroke Foundation.
