Henry’s family fled to Germany when he was 6. In the refugee camp, he lost his brother to measles and gained a sister. With MCC’s help, the family immigrated to Fernheim, Paraguay. Difficulties of sickness, poverty, and civil unrest followed. At 23, Henry apprenticed as a blacksmith in Filadelfia and built a shop in Neu-Mölln, Paraguay, where he met Helen. They raised a family in Halbstadt, Paraguay, and in 1959, immigrated to Coaldale, Alta. Henry dedicated his life to the Lord in 1960. In 1961, the family moved to Virgil, Ont., and became members of Virgil MB Church, where Henry served many years as usher, on the food committee, and with the PA system. Henry worked hard as a welder to provide for his family and never complained. In retirement, he pursued his passion for carpentry, crafting furniture for his children and grandchildren. Henry prayed tirelessly for them, desiring each follow the Lord’s footsteps, and he set an example of patience and love.
