ORTMAN: Theodore Gerald
It is with great sadness the family announces the passing of Theodore Gerald Ortman at Humboldt District Hospital on June 28, 2014 at the age of 79 years. Ted is survived by his wife and 'Love of his Life' of 57 years, Elizabeth (Betty nee Prafke) and six children: Patricia (Frank) Eilersen of Saskatoon; Norman (Reginna) of Humboldt, Rhonda (London), Amanda (Jeff) Pfeil & Emersyn, Deanne (Steve) Snell & Colden; Deborah (+Thomas) Barry of Martensville, Jason (Allie), Ashley (Graham); Brian (Janet) of Humboldt, Ryan, Justin, Kimberly; Bernard (Gail) of Humboldt, Lindsy, Brittany (special friend, Michael), Matthew (special friend, Taylor); Barry (Janice) of Dawson Creek, BC., Alisha (Chris) Burton, David (special friend, Nicole), Jesse, Hailey. Ted is also survived by 5 sisters Hilda, Mary, Elly, Frieda, Margaret and brother Joseph. Ted is predeceased by his parents Theodore and Elizabeth; father and mother-in-law Melvin and Elizabeth Prafke; son-in-law Thomas Barry and sister Rita. Ted was born in St. Paul, Alberta on December 1, 1934. Ted moved to Humboldt with his parents in 1944. He attended St. Augustine school and later worked with his father on the dairy farm. Ted married Betty on June 12, 1957. Ted entered the work force with the Humboldt Flour Mill in 1956. He left in 1965 to purchase his first farm in the Burr district and pursued his passion of farming which spanned almost fifty years. Ted was re-employed at the Humboldt Flour Mill from 1983 until retirement in 1999. The next chapter in Ted's career was a Tour Bus Driver, his travels took him to a variety of destinations and along the way he developed many new friendships. Ted was involved in many organizations including Executive on the Burr Rec Board, member of The Wheat Pool Committee, the Light Horse Club and an avid volunteer in the community. Ted was very active in sports, some of his interests included hockey and curling. He also coached minor hockey and softball; and was involved in organizing events for the youth in the community. Ted was very inventive and resourceful and enjoyed tinkering in his workshop, he loved to see the end result of transforming something old and worn out into useful treasures for his family. In 1996 Ted and Betty moved to Humboldt. Ted was a leader and role model; his integrity, honesty, work ethic and generosity were qualities that he demonstrated throughout his entire life. Ted was a devoted husband, father, father-in-law, grandpa and great grandpa, who was loved by his family. We will miss you and your stories, and cherish the Memories that will last us a lifetime. Memorial Donations may be made to Humboldt District Hospital Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society. A Prayer Service was held on Thursday, July 3, 2014 at 7:30 p.m., led by Nestor Trach. The Funeral Mass was held on Friday, July 4, 2014 at 10:00 a.m., celebrated by Fr. Paul Paproski, OSB and Fr. Daniel Muyres, OSB. Both services were held at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church, Humboldt. Interment followed in St. Augustine Parish Cemetery. Memorial donations in Theodore's memory may be made to the Humboldt District Hospital Foundation or the Canadian Cancer Society. Arrangements were entrusted to Malinoski & Danyluik Funeral Home, Humboldt.
