March 15, 1931 – May 12, 2021
at the age of 90 years:
With sadness in our hearts, we announce the passing of Margaret Elizabeth Lemmer, wife of Josef Lemmer, mother to Michael (Brigitte), Mechthild (Joseph), Ursula (David), George (Vera). She was also the grandmother to Stephan and Christopher, Luke, Andrew and Bianca, as well as Jennifer.
Margaret passed away peacefully on May 12, 2021 at her Home at Andover Retirement Community. She was predeceased by her husband Joseph in October 2019.
Margaret was born in Neheim, Germany in 1931, where she attended the Theresien-School for 8 years. It was her dream to become a Seamstress, but War-time did not afford the luxury of dreams. At the age of 14 she started her 3 year apprenticeship in a small Grocery store. She stayed on for another 2 years at which time she met Josef, who was working in Neheim in a Butcher shop. They married in February 1953, and she moved to Bentheim, Germany to work in her husband’s new Business, which he had opened the year before. Life for her was busy, as their four children were born between 1954 and 1957, as well as the daily running of the Butcher shop. The House which they purchased in 1959 became their Home and the Location of their Business after extensive renovations with the help of Grandfather Johann Lemmer.
Two of Josefs Brothers, Heinrich and Christian were already established in Calgary, Alberta, so Josef and Family decided to join them there in 1967. They started a small business which grew over the years into a large Butcher Facility and several Retail shops.
After their retirement in 1989, they moved to Blind Bay, BC, where they built their dream Home overlooking Shuswap Lake. Margaret enjoyed travelling whenever possible and exploring new horizons. But her artistic vein really emerged after her retirement, when she had the time to start new hobbies. Painting became a large part of her life, allowing her to express her sense of beauty through this medium. Her love of Nature and Flowers showed in every one of her creations.
At this time, we would also like to acknowledge the help Margaret and Josef received from the Staff at Andover Retirement Resort. Without exception, the warmth and dedicated care they offered, made the final years so much easier. A special Thanks to Grace, Paula and their co-workers.
Dear Lemmer Families,
Please accept my heartfelt condolences. When Margaret and Josef lived in my neighbourhood I often dropped by to say hello and was always greeted warmly and invited in for refreshments and lively and interesting conversation. I so wanted to visit Margaret at Andover after Josef’s passing, but Covid intervened. Margaret so loved to paint and her passion showed in her lovely work. It is always too soon to lose a love one, no matter the age. Rest in peace dear Margaret.
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of Margaret. She was a very gracious and talented woman who loved her family greatly. Her lovely paintings revealed her love for nature. Ursula and Mom shared this passion which was wonderful to see.
My last fond memory of Margaret was of visiting her at Andover Retirement Resort soon after Joseph passed away. She had accepted her loss in a loving positive way by having fond memories. She shared that she liked her home and was enjoying life at a peaceful pace.
Our deepest condolences to all of the Lemmer family. Our prayers are with you.
So many good memories of Margaret and Joe…what a team! One snowy winter’s day, many years ago, we heard noise and laughter coming down the driveway. There was Joe pulling a home made plow behind his truck with Margaret sitting on the plow, strategically and precariously, acting as a weight. Gales of laughter and a big smile were followed by a cleared driveway; what wonderful neighbours.
Their journey here has ended, they have left so much goodness. Please accept my heartfelt thoughts on the passing of your dear Mutti
Heart felt condolences to the Lemmer family. A generous caring lady. Giving her time and talents to her family and community. To Ursula, Dave and family our thoughts and prayers go out.
My husband and I were sorry to hear about Margaret’s passing. I have many good memories of learning German with Margaret and Jo. She always had a ready smile and kind words and Jo always had a joke on hand. I will always treasure the memories of time spent with them. Our sincere condolences to Mikki and the family.
We are deeply saddened to hear about Margaret’s passing. Her and Joseph were the loveliest of people. We have wonderful memories of warmth, laughter, great stories, cookies, cakes and coffee. Margaret was a hard working and very talented woman. She painted beautifully. Her and Joseph dearly loved their children and grandchildren and were immensely proud of them. They are sorely missed now and will be missed always. Please accept our heartfelt condolences.