April 6, 1928 – Nov 14, 2013
Henry was born the fifth child in a family of 15 siblings to Frederick and Sophie (Kepke) Lappenbusch, at their home in Ross Creek, Alberta. He passed away, at the Extendicare, Vulcan, Alberta, on November 14, 2013, at 85 years.
Henry spent his early years on the family farm at Ross Creek, and later in the Sexsmith area. At the age of 19, he married Elizabeth Mummert in Edson. He was employed in various lines of work, farming, mining, public works, construction, and carpentry moving with his family to several Alberta locations. In the 1960’s he located to Golden B.C. where he was employed by the Department of Highways. In the1970’s, he made his home in Creston and later to Fort MacLeod where he was self employed building custom cabinetry. His working life came to a tragic, abrupt halt as a result of a severe stroke, at the age of 54. Portraying an outstanding example of perseverance, Henry worked steadily to regain his ability to talk, walk and drive. He remained living independently in his own home until he was 82, moving first to the Pioneer Lodge and then Extendicare in Fort MacLeod and the last 8 months at Vulcan Exenticare. Despite weakening physical abilities, he continued to display a positive and teasing manner, and always express interest and concern for family and friends.
Henry is survived by brother, Walter Lappenbush of Wanham, AB; sisters, Florence Dumont of Vancouver, BC, JoAnn Rinehart of Wrangell, AK, USA, Lorraine Kalman of Calgary, AB, Eva Robinson of High Prairie, AB; son, Bill (Tina) Lappenbush of Sexsmith, AB, daughters, Sharon (Lyle) Lastiwka of Edmonton, AB, and Cindy Hoerger of Mossleigh, AB.; 8 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Henry is predeceased by his parents and siblings, Julie, Wyvil (Bud), Frances, Alva, Joseph, Fredrick, Verna, Hazel and James; son-in-law, Werner Hoerger, and granddaughter, Freya Hoerger.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff and volunteers of each of the above facilities, who helped Dad continue to stay as independent as possible through his progressive illness.
Donations in Henry’s memory can be made to the Vulcan Extendicare.
A memorial service honoring Henry was held on Tues. Nov. 19, 2013 at 2:30 at the Extendicare , 715, 2nd S. Vulcan AB. Private family inurnment in Teepee Creek Cemetery, Teepee Creek, Alberta, at a later date.
Arrangements in care of Vulcan funeral Home 403 485 2633.
We are all sorry for your lose and wish you our sincere condolences at this time. You are all in our prayers. Dad also sends his condolences, he wished he could be there. But his health is failing as well. I personally will remember Uncle Henry as a lively, funny person and will miss him dearly.