Obituary of Gerald Redekopp

It is with deep sorrow that we annoounce the passing of Gerald Redekopp, resident of Lone Prairie, British Columbia, on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at the age of 70 years. 

Gerald Henry Redekopp was born February 28, 1951 to Peter and Anne Redekopp in Winkler, Manitoba.  He was the fourth of six children.

Growing up Gerald took care of the animals on the family’s hobby farm and trained horses.  He helped the family by working in the fields, on the potato grader, and taking summer jobs.  Gerald spent a lot of time with his siblings: helping with homework, giving rides, and taking care of his disabled brother.  Gerald loved playing soccer in high school and joined a rec league in Chetwynd.  

In 1970 Gerald moved from Winkler to Hudson Hope to join his brother Dennis.  In 1971 he moved to Chetwynd and began working at Canfor.  At his birthday party in 1972, Gerald was introduced to Margaret Watson, a new nurse in town, by their landlord.  Four years later Jenelle was born, followed by Graham three years later, and Juanita another three years after that. 

After leaving Canfor, Gerald began working at the Quintette Mine in Tumbler Ridge.  However, forestry was in his blood and after two years he purchased and ran a dimension sawmill. For two years he ran the sawmill on his days off from the mine.  He began operations cutting oversized logs for West Fraser before moving onto Charlie’s land.  With support from the community, he expanded and operated the sawmill until 2004 when access to timber became more difficult.  The sawmill also provided a learning experience and employment for numerous family members and friends during its operation.  After the sawmill, Gerald worked in the oil patch for a number of years before coming back to Chetwynd to work at the Willowcreek Mine.

In December 2007 Gerald suffered a major heart attack.  While in recovery, his interest in natural remedies and mind body connection grew stronger.  He was able to wean off man made medicines and make a full recovery.  He shared his interest and homemade concoctions with his family and friends.

While working at the Mine, Gerald discovered a new passion.  He purchased a piece of property out Lone Prairie and became a goat farmer.  On his days off he worked tirelessly to build pens and raise his herd with a lot of help from family.  He found many hours of contentment just watching them play.  Unfortunately, early retirement forced him to sell off his herd.  He spent his final years tending to the horses and walking his property with his dogs.

Gerald was very proud of his children and grandchildren.  He attended all recitals, carnivals, school plays, games (soccer, hockey, baseball) he was able to. 

Gerald will be missed by Margaret, children: Jenelle (Colin), Graham (Danielle), Juanita (Tyler), grandchildren: Anthony, Michael, Josh, Kassie, and Grayson.  He is survived by brother Dennis (Sherilyn), sisters Alvera and Naomi (Doug), Aunt Anne as well as numerous nieces, nephews and extended family.

Gerald was predeceased by his parents: Peter and Anne and brothers: Lorne and Dave.

A Funeral Service for Gerald will be held at Reynars Funeral Chapel, on Friday, February 11, 2022 at 11:00am with interment to follow at the Tuscoola Mountian Cemetery.  For friends so wishing, the family requests that you plant a tree on the Reynars Website in memory of Gerald.

Very Respectfully, Reynars Funeral Home & Crematorium