Obituary of Kurt Otto Conrad Richter

Kurt Otto Conrad Richter was born to parents Elfriede and Hermann Richter in Kiel, Germany on January 11, 1935. He was the second of three boys and big brother to his sister Silke. Kurt at the early age of 19 pursued a dream, a dream to travel and make a new life for himself in another country. Kurt applied to three places Australia, Canada and to become a German police officer like his uncle. Canada was the first place to accept his application, so on April 4, 1954 Kurt arrived by Ship into the Halifax Harbour with all his possessions in a small suit case and five dollars in his hand. After spending some time in Halifax, Kurt worked his way across Canada doing odd jobs. Bassano, Alberta was his first real job as a ranch hand at LK Ranches. This is where he worked for a few years to save money and along the way he fall in love with Farming, Ranching and the land. After saving up some money he made his way to Chetwynd in 1963 where he started working as a ranch hand at Del Rio Ranches. In 1966 Kurt had purchased his farm close to Del Rio and later that year met Verna Lalonde, after a year of dating and building their first home together they married on June 24, 1967. Kurt and Verna had five Children together. David was the first to arrive in November 1967, Chris in 1969, Cindy 1974, Kurt Jr. 1977 and Dwayne 1980. This was a busy time in their lives. Throughout these years Kurt worked many jobs on top of running the farm to support his large family. He worked on the construction of the WAC Bennett Dam; he also worked as a loader operator for Pete and Paul Demeulemeester. Kurt later worked at Chetwynd Forest Industries for the remainder of his working years. After 35 years he retired on January 29, 2000 just after his 65 birthday. Kurt and Verna's past time and passion was for the outdoors. Hunting and fishing became a part of their lives; many weekends were spent out fishing at Moose Lake, Big Lake and War Lake. When hunting season came along the family would all jump into the truck and head out and drive. One special spot in the summer was the Moberly River; this was where hot summer days were spent swimming after haying and farm chores. Kurt passed away peacefully on July 18, 2011 with family at his side. A Memorial Service was held on Wednesday, July 27, 2011 at 11:00 am at the Chetwynd Baptist Church. Pastor Bill Evans officiated. Interment will be held at a later date. Kurt was predeceased by his father Hermann, daughter Cindy , and Step-Father Hermann. He is survived by his mother Elfriede, loving and devoted wife Verna, sons David (Theresa), Chris (Tonia), Kurt Jr., and Dwayne. Grandchildren Bradley, Tiffany, Tyler, Logan, Sierra and Sienna.