July 10, 1931 – December 12, 2008
Walter Rau grew up in the small village of Wolsdorf in northern Germany.
Orphaned at age three, he was lovingly raised by his grandparents.
Having grown up during the depression and World War 11, he enjoyed relaying entertaining stories of his childhood adventures to family and friends. He often said his childhood was the happiest time in his life.
A bricklayer by trade when he immigrated to Canada, he expanded his skills to include carpentry, plumbing, and became an all-around handyman.
An entrepreneur at heart, he was always successfully self-employed and opened his own Bakery Delicatessen store in Vancouver.
After running and expanding his family business for many years, by the time Walter retired, he and his wife were ready to move from the hustle and bustle of the Lower Mainland and sought a quieter, drier environment to while away their days.
They ended up living happily in their little house in Barriere for the past 16 years.
Walter is survived by his son Albert Rau and his two daughters, Dianna Heppner and Kirsten Rau.
He was Opa to his five grandchildren, Clifford, Katrina, Leanna, Gabriel and Janika.
He was also a stepfather to five children, Ron, Patricia, Randy, Brenda and Jeannie.
He had numerous step-grandchildren and he was also a great grandfather to recently born Francisca Marquez Rempel.
Known as a much loved father, grandfather, neighbour and friend, Walter cared for his beloved wife Josie many years until her recent passing. He passed away a short two weeks later. They were briefly apart, but now are together again.
A funeral service for Walter Rau was held at the Heritage Alliance Church, Abbotsford, B.C., on December 19, 2008.
Arrangements entrusted to North Thompson Funeral Services, Barriere, B.C., telephone 250-672-1999.