It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Jack Baumstark on August 28th, 2021. He passed peacefully at home, surrounded by family. He will be forever missed by his loving wife, Inge; his children, Richard(Michelle) Baumstark, Ingrid(Gerard) Gavin, and Dory(Bruce) Sample; his grandchildren, Robert, Joseph, Thomas, Rachel, Anthony, and Jake; and 2 great-grandchildren RJ and Nela. He will also be greatly missed by his siblings Florian, Anne, Kathi, Maria and Dora. Jack was predeceased by his sister Leni and brother Anton.
Our father left an indelible mark on all who were privileged enough to know him. He was that special kind of person who was genuinely interested in everyone, admiring of nature’s beauty, concerned over world affairs, and charmed by every animal on God’s earth.
He would converse eloquently on almost any subject. To his delight, opportunities for conversation abounded, as everywhere he went, he would bump into either existing friends, or friends made at that moment.
His generosity of time, spirit, energy, and expertise benefitted not only his beloved family, but so many others as well, as he honestly wished everyone success. There was occasion, in business, where this sentiment was to his detriment, but he bore no ill will. He carried on and provided a positive example to look up to.
One of Dad’s favourite pastimes was relaxing in his back garden, which Mom’s green thumb had turned into a veritable oasis. He would sit, often accompanied by family and friends, and bask in the joyful ambiance. Spirits heightened even further once the bbq was started and his delicious home-made wine came out. Dad very much appreciated good food, good beer, and good wine. And everything was better if it could be shared! Fresh tomatoes from the garden, jam made from their sour cherries, and that wine…! Cause for smiles all around!
Travel stoked Dad’s interest in history, architecture, scenery, new foods and new people. Along with his family, many countries were well explored. Much was learned, and good memories were made. And afterwards, the beckoning call of home and garden ensured a welcome return.
Family was of utmost importance to dad. In every way, he was supportive and loving. No better example of a wonderful relationship could have been provided for his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren than witnessing his marriage with Inge, his wife of almost 64 years. If a man’s success in this world can be measured by how well he loved, and was loved by others, then Jack Baumstark was truly a successful man!
The family would like to extend a sincere thank you to the home care team, for all their help and support.
A service will be held at Resurrection Catholic Church at 10555-50a St NW, Edmonton, on Tuesday, September 14, at 11am.
Due to Covid-19 there will be no reception following the service, a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Edmonton Humane Society in memory of Jack.
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Lorana Mavis LaPorte
Jack’s nature had a way of drawing you in so you could be part of the conversation he was having, or story he was telling. He always had interesting things to say. He has left a lasting legacy.