Obituary of Howard Harold Ganske

Howard Harold Ganske April 27, 1936 – July 27, 2023 Howard Harold Ganske, age 87, passed away on July 27, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of love, adventure, and cherished memories. He was born on April 27, 1936, in Northleigh, Alberta, to Otto and Helene Ganske. Pioneering in the Drayton Valley area, Howard embarked on a remarkable journey that defined his life. At the tender age of 13, Howard left his hometown to work in Edmonton, where he took on various jobs, from delivering milk with a horse and cart to printing newspapers. Displaying a daring spirit, he joined the Merchant Marines at the age of 17, sailing the Alaskan Seas and the Great Lakes, even though he was underage. In his early 20s, destiny brought him back to Drayton Valley, where he met the love of his life, Doraine Hinse. They shared a beautiful love story, and after marrying, they moved to Port Arthur-Fort William, Ontario. Eventually, they returned to Drayton Valley, where Howard established Ganske Welding, starting out in a small shop in their backyard in Poplar Ridge. Howard's dedication and hard work played a crucial role in shaping the Pembina Oilfield and contributing to the growth of the town of Drayton Valley. Throughout life's journey, Howard and Doraine were inseparable. They were actively involved in several clubs in Drayton Valley and enjoyed their time at Buck Lake and Slave Lake, where their favorite activities were playing cards, fishing and evenings by the campfire, surrounded by their cherished family and friends. Their shared passion for travel took them to various destinations, making unforgettable memories along the way. Howard and Doraine enjoyed spending winters in Mesa, Arizona, often complemented with side trips to Vegas. However, his most cherished role in life was that of being a devoted Grandfather. Whether it was fishing, camping, or teaching them his favorite card games, Howard treasured every moment spent with his three granddaughters, and their bond remained strong until his very end. Howard will forever be remembered and deeply missed by his children, Roger (Debra), Terry, and Janice (Scott); grandchildren, Kaylie, Jenna, and Cori (James); siblings Eileen and Allen, as well as numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and many life-long friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Otto and Helen Ganske; brother Carl; nephew Gerald; niece Ann Marie, and most recently, his beloved wife, Doraine. Howard’s family would like to express their gratitude to Dr. Ryan White for the exceptional care shown to Howard, and to the hospital staff in acute and long-term care at Drayton Valley Hospital and Care Center for the compassion and care given to Howard during his stay. We would also like to extend a special thank-you to Mary De Jong for being with dad during his last moments. A special shout-out to all those who took time out of their busy lives to visit with him, he especially thrived in the presence of company and each visit was treasured. Howard’s life will be celebrated at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch #269, 5204 51 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta on Friday, August 4, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. A time of fellowship in the Legion Lounge will follow. Memorial contributions in Howard’s name may be made directly to Drayton Valley Health Foundation’s Greatest Need, 4550 Madsen Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta, T7A 1N8. Condolences may be sent to www.affinityfuneralservice.ca Arrangements in care of Joelle Valliere at: Affinity Funeral Service 5001 – 45 Avenue, Drayton Valley, Alberta T7A 1L1 780.542.3338