Obituary of Karl Herbert Korsch

On Saturday, February 18, 2023, Karl Herbert Korsch peacefully passed away at Rest Haven Care Home, Steinbach, MB.

Karl was born in Zinten, Prussia, on February 24, 1935. His childhood was impacted by World War ll so Karl resolved to pursue a life in a peaceful country that had a lot of opportunity. So as a young adult, he immigrated to Canada and settled in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Here he began to create a new life.

He arrived in Canada with skills as a bricklayer and then acquired completion of trade in plastering. He was eager to obtain any skills he could to optimize his goal of financial security. And truly was a jack of all trades.

As his work life improved so did his personal life. He met the love of his life, his late wife Illa, and they married on March 16, 1957. He cherished 65 years of marriage, and they were inseparable. His heart was broken when Illa passed away nine months ago.

Karl was devoted to his family: his late wife Illa and their three children; Lila Fifi, Ruth Lussier (Maurice) and Martin Korsch. But Karl cherished his grandchildren: Ryan Fifi (Melissa), Amanda Fifi, Jess Krahn (Kris), Emily Korsch (Andrew) and Luc Korsch. His family grew to include a great-granddaughter, Maelle Krahn, and her ‘Opa’ always reserved the biggest smile for her (along with smarties in his breast pocket).

Karl had many interests but particularly loved any kind of project involving construction. He loved to debate current affairs, discuss history and tell stories. He would get so engaged in discussions that Illa would nudge his thigh to remind him to breath. He created a plan for every day and together with Illa, days were filled with activities like yard/garden work, picking raspberries, making wine or beer, preserving fruit and vegetables and more.

The family would like to thank Resthaven Nursing Home for the amazing care they delivered so Karl was comfortable. When asked how he was, his famous response was “I’m okay”… he is now really “okay”.

The memorial service will be held Friday, March 3, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Birchwood Funeral Chapel, Steinbach, MB.