Obituary of Walter W. Hees

Walter was born in Plochingen, Germany on June 14, 1932. He came to northern Alberta at the age of 17 and went to work on his uncle and aunt's farm. Walter didn't return to Germany until 1969 when he made the first of four trips back to his childhood home. He didn't stay on the farm long before he moved on to work in construction. Walter was known for his pride. He practiced his speech and eliminated his accent. He lived by the old principles where being a gentleman was important and he worked hard at becoming part of his new country. Walter married Beatrice Schwabe in 1958 and settled in Little Prairie (now Chetwynd BC) to continue working in construction. Walter and Beatrice immediately started a family with their daughters Carol, Maureen, Loraas and Leslie. Walter was proud of his family. He always protected his girls. His standard warning was "it's the girls that get pregnant". He cautioned his girls and threatened the boys. Walter and Beatrice moved to Dawson Creek in 1965. He bought his first gravel truck and became an owner/operator. This was the day of the CB radio and his fellow truckers gave him the handle "Easy Money Hees". This began his business career. He incorporated Walter Hees Construction Ltd. in 1990. He gradually acquired more equipment: loaders, graders, more trucks and lots of toys. He acquired a shop which also served as a place to meet with his friends. Walter loved visiting with his friends, clients and anyone else that wanted to stop by. Walter's business expanded and he needed a full time mechanic; he hired his son in law Daryl Makuch who eventually took over management of the company. Walter knew everyone and everyone knew and respected Walter. He was proud of his community. He quietly stepped in to help those he saw in need. He was a mentor, loyal friend and a trusted employer. He was always ready to contribute to his community, especially kids, as evidenced by his support of soccer, minor ball, hockey and many other youth activities. He was an active member of the South Peace Oilmen's Association. Walter loved the outdoors and routinely organized excursions with friends to enjoy the outdoors in any season. Walter was predeceased by his wife Beatrice. Walter is survived by his daughters; Carol (Daryl) Makuch; Maureen (Gary) Price; Loraas (Darryl) Brummond; Leslie (Terry) Boe; grandchildren Kalon, Dane, Sara, Simon, Matt, Jacob and Michael. He also leaves his long time close personal friend, Maxine McTavish. Walter passed away Sunday, April 11, 2010 in Dawson Creek, BC at the age of 77 years. A funeral service was held Sunday, April 18, 2010 at 4:00 pm at the Alliance Church; Ernie Hamre officiated; Interment followed in the Brookside Cemetery. For friends so wishing, donations may be made in memory of Walter to the South Peace Hospice Palliative Care Society or The Ark Christian Youth Centre.