Obituary of Henry Petkau

PETKAU, Henry (Hank) - It is with deep sadness and yet, gratitude to God, that we announce the passing of Henry (Hank) Petkau on Sunday, February 24th at the age of 85. Cherished husband of Agnes (Aggie); adored Dad of Bev & Brian Larmour, Terry & Audrey Petkau, Dave & Judy Petkau, Laurie & Ernie Reimer, Julie & Ken Wall, Chris & Gwen Petkau; much loved Grandpa to David and James Larmour, Tyler & Andrea and Evan Petkau, Bethany and Elise Petkau, Ellis & Jamie and Kendall Reimer, Richard, Marc, Mackenzie and Ethan Wall, Carly, Max, Mia and Ruby Petkau. Henry was born on February 17, 1928 in Greenland, Manitoba and at a young age, moved to Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. He attended several public schools and was part of the first graduating class of Eden High School. On June 21, 1952, he married Agnes Durksen. After post secondary education, he started his teaching career at Robertson, Connaught and Victoria Elementary schools in St. Catharines. He carried on to be principal of both Glen Merritt and Oakridge Public Schools. He continued his teaching career as a professor of Educational Psychology at Brock College of Education for 18 years. During these years he completed his BA, MA and PhD. Henry retired to his second career as pastor of several churches in BC and Ontario. In addition to his teaching and pastoral work, he was always involved in athletic endeavours, both as a competitor and as a coach in hockey, baseball and curling. Henry had a love for music that included singing in quartets, barber shop chorus, male choirs and with his family. Henry had a deep Christian faith and lived his life in a close personal relationship with God. He lovingly led his children and grandchildren in their faith journeys and was a great example to many others. Henry is survived by family members: Jake & Mary Petkau, Pepper & Harry Thiessen, Hedy Petkau and Jake Andres. He was loved and will be greatly missed by his large extended family and many friends. Visitation will be on Wednesday, February 27th, from 2-4 pm and 6:30-8 pm at Fairview MB Church, 455 Geneva Street, St. Catharines. Memorial Service will be on Thursday, February 28th at 12 noon, at Fairview MB Church, 455 Geneva Street, St. Catharines. Prior to the service, a private interment will take place at Victoria Lawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations are gratefully accepted for Global Shore Opportunities or Youth for Christ, Niagara.