My Dad Passed Away.....

POHL, Raymond Emil

On September 1^st, 2013, Raymond Pohl of Edmonton passed away peacefully at the age of 84 years.

Raymond is survived by Elfriede his loving wife of 57 years.  He is also survived by three sons Robert (Margarit), Gregory (Barbara Ann) and Wesley (Barbara Jean).  “Opa” is dearly loved by his seven grandchildren Samuel, Amelia, Colin, Simone, Hailey, Annelise and Helena.

Raymond is survived by one sister Ellen and two brothers, Walter (Frieda) and Ben (Ruby).  He was predeceased by two brothers John and Richard.

Ray was born in 1929 near Wetaskiwin, Alberta.  He was a triplet, born just after his sister Ellen and brother Richard, and the youngest of six children.  He grew up on the family farm, working alongside his parents and his siblings.  Although his father wanted him to stay on the farm, as all his siblings had done, Ray eventually moved to Edmonton.  This was shortly after he met Elfriede, recently emigrated from Germany.  Raymond and Elfriede were married in June of 1956.  Ray worked at a number of jobs, mostly related to carpentry and construction.  Their three sons were all born in the 1960’s about the time Ray went into business for himself.  He became involved first in the roofing industry and later in plastics.  Edmonton Plastics did fiberglass manufacturing and plastic molding work.  In 1974 the skylight division spun off from the rest of the company and Ray continued in that business until his retirement in 1989.  Mac Plastics is still in operation and remains in the family.

Ray was a kind and gentle man, most remembered for his devotion to family and his easygoing nature.  An avid woodworker and craftsman, his furniture and creations are cherished by friends and family.  He instilled his work ethic, creativity and confidence in all those who knew him.  Ray always had a sparkle in his eyes and a smile for his grandchildren.  He will be deeply missed.

A private memorial service has taken place and cremation will follow.  In lieu of other tributes, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Alberta.