Wilhelm Karl Heinrich Schoenemann passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 9, 2014 at the age of 96. He leaves a legacy of determination, integrity, hard work, curiosity and love of learning for his family and the many people in his life who greatly admired and respected him. Wilhelm is survived by Ilse, his loving wife of 66 years; four daughters - Christel (Gerry), Marlis (Greg), Heidi (Tim) and Carla (Andy); nine grandchildren - Megan (Corey), Shane, Kiera, Matthew, Paula, Peter, Mikaela, Aidan and Sophie; three great grandchildren - Melissa, Jordan and Evan. Wilhelm was born in Falkenburg, Germany on Sunday, September 1, 1918 to Elise and Karl Schoenemann. He became the head of the household at the age of 10 after his father died and responsible for the work of an adult. He had eight years of formal education before entering the workforce full-time. World War II interfered with his goal of becoming an engineer and after his service during the war, Wilhelm landed in Oehna, Germany where he met and married Ilse and found his second home. They made the difficult decision to leave Germany and emigrated to Canada in 1953-with the hope of creating more opportunities and a better life for their young family. They put down their Canadian roots in Yellow Grass and eventually Weyburn where he learned English and found challenging work to support his growing family. Very much a self-taught man, Wilhelm first worked in the fledgling Weyburn oil industry and went on to become a successful builder, contractor, businessman, and late in life, fulfilled his dream of owning farmland in Saskatchewan-a province that he had grown to love. Throughout his life he maintained a strong Christian faith and supported others by giving back to his church and community in many different capacities. He was especially proud of becoming a journeyman carpenter, receiving a Certificate of Recognition from the City of Weyburn for his many years of service on the Development Appeal Board, his work as the Chair of the Building Committee for the expansion of Zion Lutheran Church in 1985, and his management of the building construction of the Weyburn Credit Union which was completed on time and under budget. Wilhelm was a mentor to many and in particular, loved to share his knowledge, both practical and intellectual. At the same time, he always admired and took pleasure in the successes of others. He will be very much missed by his family and remembered with great affection. Funeral services were held on Saturday, November 15 at the Zion Lutheran Church, Weyburn with Pastor Martin Olson officiating. Interment took place at Hillcrest Cemetery, Weyburn. Donations in his memory may be made to Zion Lutheran Church or to a charity of the donor's choice. Condolences may be left at: www.fletcherfuneralchapel.com. Arrangements entrusted to Fletcher Funeral Chapel, Weyburn (306) 842-5432
