Obituary of Lewis John Diebel

LEWIS JOHN DIEBEL September 7, 1922 " May 9, 2009 Lewis passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 9, 2009 surrounded by his family. He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Regina; brothers, Alexander, Andrew, Michael, John and Gabriel; sisters, Elizabeth, Fronica, Alonia, Mary, and Madeline. Left to cherish his memory is his wife of 56 years, Madeliene, his children Patricia (Brad) Thompson, Darlene (Ray) Briere, Darrell Diebel, Wanda (Ron) Ludwar, Kathy Diebel (Bob Gamble), Kelly Diebel, and Warren Diebel; his grandchildren Kim (Dwayne) Wolkowski; Matthew Thompson (Amanda Petrychyn), Adam Thompson (Jenny Solonenka), Bryan Briere, Lyndsay (Scott) Moskal, Jerrod Briere (Jennifer Yee), R.J. Ludwar, Michael Ludwar, Katelyn Uhrich and Ryan Uhrich; great-grandson Logan Wolkowski; brother Engelbert and sister Rose Weigl as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Lew was born on the family farm near Chamberlain where his family homesteaded in 1914. In 1940 he joined the Canadian army by borrowing $5.00 and hitching a ride to Regina. He was sent overseas in 1941 where he served with the 65th Tank Transport and Reconnaissance Battalion. Upon his discharge from the army in 1946 he returned to the family farm. He met Madeliene Molter in 1951 and married the love of his life on June 14th, 1952. He worked in several occupations throughout his life but worked mainly in road construction, proudly building Saskatchewans many highways. He retired in 1987 and was able to more actively indulge his many interests that included fishing, hockey, baseball, his dogs, whistling tunes and collecting. He thoroughly enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandson, spending many precious hours with them. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered. The family extends a very special thank you to his caregivers on 3 West, Regina Pioneer Village for their compassion and loving care during the last two years of his life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to a charity of your choice. Prayers will be held at Speers Funeral Chapel, 2136 College Avenue, Regina on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass to celebrate his life will occur at Holy Child R.C. Church, 2636 " 7th Avenue East, Regina on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Lorne Crozon presiding. An online book of condolences may be signed at www.speersfuneralchapel.com