Irvin Walter Proppe

PROPPE, Irvin Walter

After a courageous battle with cancer, Irvin Walter Proppe took the hand of Jesus and went to his eternal home on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 at the age of 85 years.

He leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Martha (Janke); son, Jerry (Christine); son, John (Carla); daughter, Carolyn (Craig Hall); twelve grandchildren, Andrew (Cassandra), Ethan (Laura), Alexandra (Gregory), Michael, Emily (Tanner), Jonathan, Nathaniel, Braden, Levi, Carly, Julia, and Benjamin; and brothers, Eric and Harold (Eleanor) Proppe. Irvin was predeceased by his parents Ewald and Elizabeth (Shoenrath) Proppe. 

From a very young age, the demanding responsibilities of farm life in Bowsman, Manitoba fostered a fearless, honest and hard-working ethic. At age 23 Irvin left the farm for Calgary and began his career in construction. He built many homes with a deep sense of pride and perfection. His motto was “Measure twice, cut once.”  He met Martha in 1956, and they were married in August 1957 at Bridgeland Baptist Church and soon began a family. 

With his smooth baritone voice, he enjoyed ministering in song with the Berg Chorale, church quartets and choirs. His appreciation and talent for music has been passed on and embraced by his children and grandchildren. He faithfully attended Brentview Baptist Church since 1970. There he had the privilege of singing in the Brentview choir conducted by his son Jerry.

Some of his favourite memories were vacationing with his family at Skaha Beach in Penticton, BC, and the annual trek to the farm in Swan River. He loved having coffee with friends from all walks of life. During the 90’s, Irvin and Martha operated a Bed and Breakfast at their acreage in Springbank. He enjoyed meeting people from different countries and learning about their backgrounds. Irvin was a lifelong learner, and always kept up with world news, as well as subscribing to the Swan River Times to keep in touch with his hometown roots. Irvin was content to live a simple life. Family and friends were always welcome at the Proppe home where they enjoyed many family dinners and occasions together. Irvin loved having a full house surrounded by his kids and grandchildren. His quiet, solid faith and love for his family has been the firm foundation of the home that he and Martha built together.

Irvin, Dad, Opa; you have left an empty place in our hearts but a lifetime full of memories which we will cherish.  Special thanks to the staff of the Tom Baker Cancer Centre and Dulcina Hospice for their kindness, compassion and care. Thanks to Brentview Baptist Church for love and support.

A Visitation will take place at Brentview Baptist Church, 3512 Charleswood Drive NW, Calgary, AB on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 from 7:00 – 8:30 pm. A Celebration of Irvin’s Life service will be held at Brentview Baptist Church on Wednesday, July 5, 2017 at 1:30 pm.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Alberta Cancer Foundation, #300, 1620 – 29 Street NW, Calgary, AB, T2N 4L7 (albertacancer.ca).