Wilfred Burgstaler
October 2, 1958 – November 22, 2022
On November 22, at the age of 64, Wilfred Edward Burgstaler entered the gates of Heaven when he passed away in the comfort of his home, surrounded by his closest loved ones.
Wilfred was born on October 2, 1958, in Dryden to Ed and Irma Burgstaler. He was the 5th of their 6 children and spent his childhood swimming and fishing in Thunder Lake. It was obvious from an early age he had inherited his father’s passion for the outdoors.
In 1980, Wilfred married Judy (Froese). Together they spent 42 years building an amazing life filled with the joys of raising 2 boys, Sunday suppers at his parents’ house, fish fries with family and friends, and a 40-year career in real estate- spent mostly with the amazing staff at Austin and Austin. As busy as he was, he always took the time to lend a listening ear and offer a word or two of advice when needed. This was how he became a father figure to so many, which was a role he truly cherished. His greatest passions in life were his family, fishing, and hunting. He took every opportunity he could to share the outdoors with those he loved. Even when no one could join him, he didn’t hesitate to take to the lake every chance he got (rain or shine). Throughout his life, Wilfred was a community volunteer and advocate- working with many local and regional organizations to help educate others about the outdoors, and to protect land access so that others could continue to enjoy the things he was so passionate about. One of these initiatives was carrying on his father’s legacy within the Dryden Conservation Club. In 2004 he received the provincial Volunteer Service Award for all his hard work and dedication.
Wilfred is pre-deceased by his parents Edward and Irmgard Burgstaler, and numerous other relatives.
He is survived by his wife Judy, sons Curtis (Laura) and Trevor, and his beloved grandson Oliver. He is also survived by his siblings – Christine Wiley of Toronto, Erwin Burgstaler of Dryden, Barbara Morrison of Penticton, Peter (Karen) Burgstaler of Dryden, and Eddie (Kerry) Burgstaler of Dryden. He will forever be remembered by his lifelong friends Chris Thiel and Greg Coombs, as well as his “pain in the butt” dog Tyke. He will also be missed by numerous nieces and nephews, the friends who cast a rod with him over the years, and his poker buddies who now stand a chance of winning.
Wilfred’s family would like to extend their gratitude to Dr. Bester, Dr. Cook, Dr. Goulet and all of the staff at the Dryden Regional Health Centre, the Dryden Oncology Unit, and the Thunder Bay Cancer Centre for their kind and compassionate care that even included phone calls and house visits in Wilfred’s final days.
A memorial service to remember Wilfred will be held on December 3rd at 11:00 at the Dryden Lutheran Church with Pastor Alex Timm officiating. Lunch to follow. Internment of ashes will take place at a later date.
Please join us in celebrating Wilfred via YouTube at http://drydenlutheran.ca/streams/
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
Condolences may be posted at www.dcfh.ca
Arrangements entrusted to the Dryden Community Funeral Home, 249 Grand Trunk Avenue, Dryden, ON P8N 2X3
