Henry’s ancestors came from Germany to the Ukraine, where he was born in Fuerstenfeld, Ukraine. He completed high school, served in the Navy and earned a teaching degree from the University of East Germany. Later he was employed at that same university.
In 1949 he married Lory and moved to West Germany. In 1951 they moved to Canada, settling in Terrace BC where they raised their children. He was a devoted husband and father. Henry protected his kids and taught them to be hard workers.
He gained employment with Pohle Lumber mill and for 40 years he adapted to changes; from a truck driver, lumber grader, shipper, and supervisor; and then finally found his calling with Quality Control. He taught lumber grading at the local College and he taught Sunday school at his church. He retired from the mill in 1991. His strong work ethic and pride in a job well done was passed on to his children, his employees and his students.
Since the early 1970’s Henry and Lory spent their yearly vacation in Hawaii. When Lory died in 2004, Henry was heartbroken. However the family convinced him to return to Hawaii in the winters so he could continue to enjoy his retirement.
Over the years Henry built houses, river boats, and a lake cabin. During his almost 90 years of life, he enjoyed many sports and activities. There were many memorable hours spent in the ‘yellow banana boat’ fishing the Skeena River with his friends and family.
While vacationing in Hawaii, Henry met his friend Helga. For the past eight years they travelled the world, sang, danced and played card games. Just three years ago, Henry was lucky to spend a vacation in Hawaii with most of his immediate family and Helga where great memories were made.
At the age of 89 ½ Henry was struck by illness and was hospitalized for a week. He sadly passed away, with his family and loved ones by his side, at Mills Memorial Hospital in Terrace.
A funeral was held Friday, March 18, 2016 at Sacred Heart Parish in Terrace; Father Xavier officiated. Interment will follow at a later date at the Terrace Municipal Cemetery.
Henry was predeceased by his parents Ernst and Luise (Lorenz) Kuehne; his wife, Leonore “Lory” (Meyer) Kuehne; and four of his siblings.
Henry is survived by his sister, Antonie (Kuehne) Illenseer; son, Ernie (Gloria); daughter Rita; grandchildren Rodney (Kerri) and Jennifer (Matt); great grandchildren Ashley & Logan; his loving companion, Helga Lakaemper, and many nieces and nephews, as well as great, and great great nieces and nephews.
Memorial donations may be made to the BC Cancer Agency, Heart & Stroke Foundation of BC, or the REM Lee Foundation in Terrace.
The Kuehne family would like to extend sincere thanks to everyone who cared for and assisted Henry in his final days with their loving care and support, and everyone who helped at the funeral service and reception - your kindness is much appreciated.
Thank you to all who sent food, floral arrangements, cards, emails, and phone calls of condolences, kind words and recollection of great memories. To all those who made donations in memory of Henry - you are all very much appreciated.
“Great Opa, you will be missed by all who knew and loved you.
We will continue to carry on without you, but a piece of our hearts will forever be broken.”