It is with profound sadness that the family of Jakob Eichele announces his passing on Monday, December 26th, 2022 at the age of 90 years. He was a compassionate, patient, and devoted husband, son, father, grandfather and friend who will be dearly missed. Jakob was born in a little village close to Helenental. In his youth, he was an apprentice carpenter. When it became evident that the political climate in Europe was changing, he left his family, friends and motorcycle to venture off by himself, making his way to Canada. He was determined to make a new life for his family. Jacob was able to find a job and place to live in Medicine Hat. He soon succeeded in having his parents and sister join him in Alberta. It was while playing football aka soccer in Redcliff, he met Elfrieda and they were married in 1960. The couple moved to Weyburn, Saskatchewan for six years, Redcliff for one, returning to Medicine Hat in 1973. As a carpenter, he worked for several construction firms. He proudly told stories of building many homes for family members, as well as his own in the evenings, after working all day. He had a lot of energy! Jakob’s final home was his greatest achievement - he was determined to age there, looking after his garden! His children brought him happiness, but his grandsons were his joy! Jakob doted on his boys. He enjoyed babysitting them as much as sharing a Pilsner when they got older. He loved his grandchildren more than air. Jakob leaves to cherish his memory his children, Audrey (Brad) Pavelich and Richard (Lorette Dube) Eichele; grandchildren, Scott (Megan) Pavelich, Aaron Pavelich, and Blake (Madison) Pavelich; brother-in-law, Alfred Ferchau; sisters-in-law, Ellen Ferchau (Paris Koukis) and Francis Ferchau; as well as nieces and nephews.
Jakob was predeceased by his beloved wife, Elfrieda; parents, Johann and Eva Eichele, sister, Lilly Seifried and brothers-in-law, William Seifried and Carl Ferchau; as well as nephew, Randy Seifried. The Funeral Service will be held at SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL, 1 Dunmore Road SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1Z5, on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023 at 1:30 pm with Pastor Shane Hein officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. Memorial gifts in Jakob's memory may be made to St. Peter Lutheran Church, 758 8th St SE, Medicine Hat, AB T1A 1M5. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Jakob Eichele