January 2, 1936 - April 25, 2025
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Lee Wolf, who died peacefully on Friday, April 25th, 2025, at the age of 89. He passed away surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with an aggressive cancer.
Dad was predeceased by his parents, Herta and Leopold Wolf, his sisters, Ella Zell and Klara Wilson, as well as his children's mothers Kathleen and Beverley. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy, and lovingly remembered by his three children: Sheryl Koers (Martin), Penny Koers (Bill), and Philip Wolf. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren: Jordan (Samantha), Brent, Hayley (Connor), Kaiya (Cole), and Zach (Luke). Though proud of his German roots, dad was deeply grateful for the life he built in the Cowichan Valley.
Dad was born on January 2, 1936, in Deutsch Troschin, a German farming community in Poland. The youngest of three, he spent his early childhood helping on the family farm and playing outdoors with his sisters near a river and pond. In 1945, during the Russian invasions of Poland, his family secured passage out of the country and found shelter in a refugee camp in Berlin. Food was scarce, and he and his sisters often snuck through barbed-wire fences in search of food from nearby farmers. The family lived in several refugee camps before being reunited with their father through the help of the Red Cross at the end of the war.
In 1951, at the age of 15, he and his family immigrated to Canada, arriving in Halifax on March 9th. They made their way to Duncan, British Columbia, where the family settled. Dad attended high school at Cowichan Secondary, before entering the workforce. He later apprenticed and became a Millwright at the Youbou Mill, where he worked until he retired.
Dad had a love for country music, especially the old stuff. He also loved to dance. Many summers were spent camping and travelling around BC and Canada. He also loved big family dinners and holiday celebrations and simple moments spent sharing a beer or coffee with friends and loved ones.
A talented handyman, dad could fix, build, or install just about anything and was often called upon to help others. His passion for woodworking led him to design and build furniture such as desks, bedside tables, and deacon's benches. In later years, he refined his skills to create hand-turned bowls, cutting boards, clocks, and even wooden pens. For years, he was a familiar and friendly face at the Duncan Farmer's Market every Saturday, proudly sharing and selling his creations.
Dad's legacy lives on through the love and warmth he shared with everyone around him. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend, his spirit will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
As per his wishes, there will be no formal service. The family will gather privately to spread his ashes. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the BC Cancer Society.
You were a wonderful dad and grandfather. You will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved. Rest in peace.