Stephan Ollenberger

Passed away at the Tiger Hills Health Centre, Treherne, MB, on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at the age of 88 years, Stephan Ollenberger, of Holland, MB.

Steve (Stephan) was born at home, on a small family farm near Denzil, Saskatchewan on June 20, 1936.

 He received his elementary education in a one room country school, and graduated high school in 1957. He attended Teachers Colleges in Saskatoon, receiving the temporary Teacher’s Certificate in 1958.  He moved to the Yukon Territory to pursue a career in teaching, first in Dawson City, later being transferred to schools in Whitehorse and Watson Lake. During summer holidays, he took classes at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, receiving a Bachelor of Education degree in 1964. He continued teaching in the Yukon for 19 years.

 Later in the 1960’s, Steve and close friend, Gary, travelled through Central & South America during the summer holidays, and in 1969/70, Steve did a trip through England, Europe, India, as well as New Zealand and Australia.

 He later moved to Northern Alberta in the Westlock area, to try his hand at farming. Steve was interested in animal health and used many farming ideas for pigs on the farm. He was in Westlock, AB. until the late 1990’s, when he moved to southern Manitoba and settled in Holland.

 Steve became involved in Holland’s Friendship Centre, delivering Meals on Wheels to community residents for a number of years. He also enjoyed playing cards, like Bridge and especially Bien. He learned the game while in Holland and wrote a booklet explaining the game. Steve also enjoyed cribbage and organized many tournaments at the Friendship Centre.  For a few years Steve helped at Budz’s Funeral Service when required. He was an avid gardener, growing a variety of vegetables for his own use, as well as keeping attractive flower beds, hanging pots, and bird feeders in his yard.

 Steve’s parents, William and Katharina (Scheck) Ollenberger had emigrated to Canada from the Ukraine and Russia as young children. Steve was predeceased by his parents, 10 brothers and 2 sisters. He is survived by his sister, Loretta and her 4 children, as well as many nieces and nephews in western Canada.

 At Steve’s request, there will not be a funeral service. Memorial Donations may be made to the Holland Friendship Centre, Box 333, Holland, MB, R0G 0X0.

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