Herman Schwenk, Mar. 7, 1931 - Mar. 13, 2021
Schwenk - Herman Dietrich Schwenk was born in Innisfail, Alberta on March 7, 1931. He was the first child of Eugene and Doris Schwenk followed by three sisters Evelyn, Sonja and Alberta. Herman grew up just outside of Sundre, Alberta before the family moved to the Talbot area in 1947.
Herman graduated from the Olds School of Agriculture in 1951 with a diploma in Practical Agriculture. At the age of 21 Herman moved back to Talbot where he began farming on a half section of rented land.
Herman met the love of his life, Marcella Seredynski, in 1957 and married at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Calgary on August 9, 1958. Together they raised 7 children, Anne (Andrew), Helen (Stephen), Stephen (Lori), Peter (Connie), Philip (Deena), Edward and Michael (Gail).
His farm is now being operated by the third generation. Herman began growing grain and had a small cattle herd. The farm now includes feedlot production. Herman enjoyed operating equipment and was still running a swather and combine in his 80’s.
Herman began writing an opinion column in the local East Central Alberta Review newspaper in 2003. He was involved with more than 20 various boards, task forces and advisory committees for over 70 years where he often served as president, vice president or director. He was president of Alberta Federation of Rural Electrification Associations, Coronation Federated Co-op and the Paintearth Gas Co-op. He was also a delegate to the Alberta Wheat Pool, Alberta Cattle Commission, the Alberta Energy and Utility Board, the Clean Air Strategic Alliance and served on the Catholic Church parish councils to name just a few.
On March 13, 2021, after 90 years, Herman Dietrich Schwenk completed his earthly journey. Herman was predeceased by his parents, Eugene and Doris. He is survived by his wife (Marcella) of 62 years, 3 sisters, 7 children, 14 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. He touched so many during his life and will be greatly missed.
Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, March 18, 2021 at 1:00 PM in Our Lady of Grace Catholic Parish with Father Roger Niedzelski as Celebrant. The interment then followed in the Coronation Cemetery where Herman was laid to rest next to his parents Eugene and Doris.
Should friends so desire memorial contributions in Herman’s memory may be made to the Paintearth Lodge, Box 209, Castor, AB T0C0X0 or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Those wishing to pay respects with written condolences or view the funeral mass online, you may do so by visiting www.parkviewfuneralchapels.com
Parkview Funeral Chapels of Coronation, AB were entrusted with the care and funeral arrangements. For further information please contact 403-578-3777.