Andy Goertzen

Obituary

Passed on September 20, 2021

It is with profound grief that we announce the passing of Andy Goertzen, on September 20, 2021, after a brief but valiant fight with cancer with his wife Debbi at his side.

Andy is survived by his wife of 46 years, Debbi (Trick); his children Karl and Kiersten (Brad) Olson; and three grandchildren Jessie, Hailey and his little buddy Colt. He also left behind his father Ben, siblings Henry, Laurie (Marjorie), Wes (Karen), Evie (Ron) and Lynn; 25 nieces and nephews and their families and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was predeceased by his mother Margaret in 2020.

Andy was born in Saskatoon on August 29, 1953. At the age of 3 he moved to St. Laurent where his family became engaged in cattle ranching. Early on, Andy was involved in music, learning guitar and steel guitar and playing in the Goertzen Family Gospel Band. During his youth he had opportunity to play his guitar in numerous churches, often catching the eye of some girl with his quick smile and gentle manner. In September 1974, during one such occasion at Stonewall Baptist Church, he met Debbi and they were married in that same church on June 7, 1975. Karl arrived in 1987 and Kiersten in 1992 and their family was complete. Andy adored his children and developed ever-lasting relationships with them both. He was always teaching them something, whether it be guitar, horse-back riding, caring for livestock, installing flooring or being a kind, honest, caring human being.

Andy had a steadfast faith in his Lord, Jesus Christ, and lived that faith quietly but was always willing to share His love and sacrifice. He shared his faith with both of his children and at tender ages they followed his example, and we are assured of meeting him again. In 2016, he became grandfather to two precious girls, followed by a grandson in 2020. One would think he had won the lottery! He cherished those little girls and they loved him. Colt and he bonded fast and hard and when he knew he was sick his biggest sorrow was knowing he would not be there to teach Colt to ride the lawnmower, hunt and fish and become a young man. Rest assured; Colt and his sisters will be ever reminded of their grandpa.

Andy’s work ethic was to be greatly admired. He worked in the ranching life for the early years of his marriage, which probably prompted his extensive collection of saddles and all things Western. In 1976, he worked with his uncle George installing carpet and quickly decided to become his own boss and established Goertzen Flooring, which he operated until his first cancer diagnosis in 2020. During this time, he also began a career in Trim and Finish at Air Canada, and then Aveos until 2012. Andy worked hard, but also enjoyed his work, as his fellow workers, employees and even his customers can attest to. He did such quality work and had fun doing it. He passed on his work ethic to both children as they learned along side of him.

Next to his family, Andy’s greatest love had to be music. His musical proficiency carried over into adulthood and he was sought out by other bands, gospel and country/western. He soon became the go-to for out-of-town bands needing a steel guitar player for gigs or for studio work. He played with many Manitoba bands, covering a host of musical styles from country, gospel, jazz, pop, rock and even polkas. He became a favorite at the many country dances around the Interlake and thoroughly enjoyed the interaction with those attending, sharing with them his ready smile and generous hugs.

Viewing will take place at New Life Church in Stonewall on Friday, October 1 at 8:00 pm . Private family internment will take place on Saturday, followed by the Celebration of Life at New Life Church at 3:00 pm. Please be aware that Covid Restrictions will be in place. In recognition of Andy’s love of music and his incredible talent, the service will be followed by a BYO-supper and jam session in the church parking lot.

Thank you to Drs. P. Ketawala and K. Graham; staff at Cancer Care Manitoba in Winnipeg and Selkirk; and the wonderful nursing staff at the Stonewall Hospital for their care and compassion during our journey.

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