Albert Poschenrieder

Albert "Bert" Theodore Poschenrieder

The strongest link in our family chain has broken. Surrounded by love, in the peacefulness of his own home on his beloved farm, our dad, papa and great grampa passed quietly away.

Survived by his loving wife, Ardeth, son Doug (Del), daughters Cindy (Butch), Kim (Warren), and Leslie (Scott). Grandchildren Dustin (Christine), Megan (Marlow), Ashley (Gillian), Janelle (Mike), Leia (Tim), Courtney (Cole), Melissa (Dan), Rendalyn, Brittany (Stuart), Sadie and Samantha. Great grandchildren Kieran, Declan, and Theron Poschenrieder, Cole and Brodie Thompson, Darielle Brandt, Gemma Braden and his faithful companion, Poppy. Also survived by one sister Evelyn (Tom) Jackson, sister-in-laws Eve, Barb and Nora and countless friends.

He was predeceased by his parents August and Mary Poschenrieder.

Born September 24, 1939, Dad lived and breathed farming. He was happiest when he was on his tractor whether it was seeding, cultivating, combining or just picking stones. He lived by the motto "Nothing runs like a Deere!"

His family meant the world to him and he loved being surrounded by them. His knee was the coveted spot and many fights ensued as to whose turn it was to sit there! The 'banker's seat' on his combine was rarely empty as he loved to have company as he worked. His generosity was astounding.

He loved to talk and had the 'gift of the gab'. He could meet a total stranger and within minutes had learned their life story. He said he didn't always remember a name but he never forgot a face and it didn't matter where he went, he always found someone he knew.

He had a great sense of humor, loved to laugh and enjoyed a good joke. He had an incredible work ethic and could never understand why people didn't get up at 5:00 am like he did because that was when he did his best thinking!

His family was drawn to him for his indescribable strength both physically and emotionally and mostly for his incredible knowledge of just about everything. He was the first person we asked, "how, where, why, what" as he usually had the answer and was quite happy to share his wisdom (whether we agreed or not!).

Many lasting friendships were made while hunting fowl or big game. In later years, fishing became his passion. Many hours were spent trolling the Waterhen River in pursuit of supper. He loved spending time at his cabin and loved when his family was there with him. Quite often he was content to just drive the boat and watch everyone else reel them in as he loved to see us happy! According to him, the best meal was fresh fish followed by a bowl of ice cream!

He always left us with a hug, a kiss and an "I love you" and even in his final days, he made sure to have his arm around you in a hug or just hold your hand. We will miss him terribly and the void will never be filled. Rest easy Papa (Green Machine), your legacy will live on in your children, grand children and great grandchildren. You have left a huge hole in our hearts and big shoes to fill.

Visitation will be held on Friday June 29, 2012 from 7:00pm to 8:00 pm at McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel. Funeral Service to celebrate Bert's life will be held on Saturday June 30, 2012 at 10:30 am at Trinity United Church, 15 Tupper St. S. Portage la Prairie.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bert's memory to the Stray Fund c/o the Gladstone Veterinary Clinic, Box 538, Gladstone, MB R0J 0T0, or to a charity of one's choice.

A tree will be planted in memory and cared for by McKenzies Portage Funeral Chapel www.mckenziesportagefuneralchapel.com