Obituary of Johann Regehr

REGEHR, Johann

At Hamilton General Hospital on Monday, August 12, 2019, Johann, aged 79, passed away surrounded by family. Beloved husband of Alice. Papa of Henry, John (Lina), Anna (Harv), Tina, Irene (Don), Lisa, and Helen (Carsten). Opa of Ashley (Jake), Michele (Jeff), Chelsea, Kristin, Brook, Robbie, Matthew, Mikey, Jessica, Adelaide, Arabelle, Nathan, Cohen, Nicky, and Trent. He is survived by siblings in Germany and Kazakhstan. 

After a decade of failed resettlement attempts, Johann moved his family from behind The Iron Curtain to Canada in 1976 with six kids and two suitcases in tow. Upon arrival in Canada, they planted themselves firmly on the same street as Alice’s long lost family--adding a seventh child within the year. Without fail, they gratefully celebrated the day of their arrival every year thereafter.

Johann, also known as John, was often recognized from the thousands of kilometres he biked along the canal and lake during his retirement years. His family already misses his curiousity, his helping hands, his quirky DIY projects, and the sound of the laugh he cannot contain as he recounts his latest tale.  

The family will receive friends at SCOTT ST. M.B. CHURCH on 339 Scott St., on Friday, August 16, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Funeral service in the church on Saturday, August 17 at 11:00 a.m. with reception following. 

Online condolences can be shared at www.tallmanfuneralhomes.ca  If desired, memorial donations to Niagara Region’s Mental Health ACTT* program are appreciated. Please make cheques payable to Niagara Region, Attention: Lisa Panetta or Michael Leckey. 

*The Assertive Community Treatment Team (ACTT) provides long term intensive supports and treatment in the community to individuals experiencing serious mental illness.  The team is comprised of a psychiatrist, nurses, social workers, mental health case workers, peer support workers and occupational therapists.