Hans Sterchi

It is with great sadness that the Sterchi family announce the passing of Hans Sterchi in Banff on January 14, 2014.

After a courageous battle, and many wins, Hans passed away surrounded by his family, just minutes before the first tracks of the day at Norquay. Hans will be remembered and dearly missed by his family, as loving husband and best friend to his wife of 43 years, Margaret, as dad and best friend to John (Carolyn) of Cow Bay, NS and Gordon (Becky) of Calgary, and as Grampa Grampa to cherished grandchildren Bennett and Megan of Calgary, by brothers Heinz of Zurich, Switzerland and Erich of Langley, BC, sister-in-law Grace of St. Ives, England, and brothers-in-law Anderson (Debbie) of St. Ives, England and Jim (Evelyn) of Glasgow, Scotland. Hans will also be missed by his nieces and nephews and by his many friends.

Hans was predeceased by his parents, Johannes and Hedwig, brother Georges and sisters-in-law Hanni and Annelies, all of Switzerland, and by brother-in-law Gordon of England.

Born in Matten, Switzerland, Hans travelled throughout Europe and Canada before calling Banff home. Hans turned his love of skiing into a business as he and Margaret owned and operated Banff Park Sports ski shop for over 2 decades. It was as much a ski shop as it was a gathering place for coffee and discussing life, ski racing, and best fishing and morel spots. He went on to work as the incomparable maitre'd at the Banff Park Lodge Terrace Dining Room where he made many treasured friendships and memories. Family and friends were very important to Hans. His hospitality was renowned, and together with Margaret they hosted many visitors over the years. Hans was incredibly active and loved the outdoors, whether skiing, fishing, hiking, cycling or hunting. Indoors, he was a talented chef, winemaker, handyman and Skype enthusiast. Hans will be remembered for his sparkling blue eyes, wink and smile, his love of life and teasing spirit, his generosity and kindness, and his Swiss precision and work ethic. In lieu of flowers, please take a moment to stop by the house to share a memory and a glass of wine with Margaret.

Special thanks to Doctors Desiree Hao and Dino Smiljic and all the staff at the Banff Mineral Springs Hospital who grew to love Hans as much as we do and provided him with tremendous care, compassion and friendship throughout his difficult journey.

A celebration of Hans' life was held Sunday, February 2, 2014 at the Banff Park Lodge in the Glacier Room. All who knew and loved Hans were welcomed by the family where they raised a glass to Hans.

Prost!

Services provided by Russ Reynolds and Bow River Funeral Service.