Helmut passed away peacefully on April 28, 2023 at the age of 87 after a brief battle with lung cancer. He will be missed by his children Marion Carswell (Doug), Ron, Jennifer Roosen (Alex) and Iona Sinikivi; his grandchildren Michael, Nicky, Alexandra, Christina,Nicholas, Matthew and Sabrina; his great grandchildren Maxwell, Brooke and Oliver; and his loving partner Patricia Abraham Bowyer.
Helmut was born in Essen, Germany and immigrated to Canada in 1959 with his wife Erika (predeceased 1964). Together they made their home in Muskoka. Helmut was a well known building contractor and carpenter, establishing the business Helmut Colditz Building Contractor and later HC Woodcraft Limited. He loved serving in the community and was an active member of the Windermere and District Lions Club, holding positions such as Club President, Zone Chairman and Deputy District Governor. In 1983 he changed his career path and moved to Toronto to work in the Trade Show industry for Smythe Fisher. Helmut was proud to be involved in setting up shopping center displays and creating exhibits for many high profile clients. In 1995 he moved to BC. to enjoy a milder climate and to accept new challenges as a Trade Show consultant.
Helmut was an outgoing social person who lived his life to the fullest and loved to travel, be it by plane, car or his motorcycle. After spending over 20 years in BC, with devoted companion Moira, he returned to Muskoka to be with friends and family.
Our special thanks to Dr. Rix and also to the wonderful caring staff at Andy's House Hospice in Port Carling.