In Memory of

Donald

Brian

Krentz

Obituary for Donald Brian Krentz

Donald Brian Krentz
March 24, 1949 - December 16, 2022

It is with profound sadness that we share the news that the heart of our family has finished filling in the “dash” of his earthly life. Don lived, loved, and spent his lifetime committed to family and friends. He is survived by the love of his life for over 52 years, Barb; their children-Jennifer (Jeff), Melanie (Doug), Matthew (Krista), along with his grandchildren, Sydney, Charlie, Kaylee, Zoe, Peyton, Wyatt, Avery, Carter, and Easton. He is also survived by his brothers; Ralph, Ken (Brenda), and Dale. His sisters-in-law, Jean (Al), Sharon (Herm), Mavis, and Ilse and his mother-in-law Erna Hein. He will also be missed by numerous nieces and nephews who absolutely loved their Uncle Don. Don was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Lena Krentz, his brother Reg, his nephew Terry and his father-in-law William Hein.

Don was born in Steinbach, Manitoba, the second of five sons to Roy and Lena Krentz. The core of the man he would become was taught in their home. He had an abiding love and respect for family, hard work, a faith in God, and a zest for life. He inherited a love of flowers and plants from his mom-they had a secret ingredient in their green thumbs that was never shared with others. The family farm door was always open for visitors and Don continued that tradition in his own home where everyone was welcome.

To describe Don as a handyman would be a massive understatement. He was a part time repairman, a service man, a renovator, a plumber, an electrician, a do-it yourselfer, a craftsman, a home decorator, a home builder, and a cottage builder-there was no end to his talents. He was a man of few words, a man of action, a true renaissance man. He was well rounded, gifted, and skilled in many fields. He was always productive. As strong as his work ethic was, he had a stronger “let’s enjoy life” ethic. He sang, he danced, he liked his music loud.

Don was a lover of everything Christmas! He and Barb opened their home every Christmas to the entire Krentz family, along with a few extras. Fresh greenery adorned every doorway throughout the house. The sounds of the crackling fire, the smell of a home brew concoction being heated on the stove, and heartfelt laughter filled the room at every winter gathering. Don loved to entertain-his storytelling abilities were unmatched. He owned the room when he would emcee an event. His sense of timing was impeccable.

Don could always envision whatever his building project was-no blueprints for him-he saw the end product in his mind’s eye and made it happen. This was so apparent in the family cottage that he and Matt built for their family. The cottage is the legacy he wanted to leave his family. It was his happy place, his oasis, the place where he went to listen to the loons and the sound of laughter from his grandchildren as they learned to swim, waterski, and build memories with their cousins-that was very important to Don because, as a child, he relished the time he spent with his own cousins in Steinbach. These past 4 years while Don was ill, the cottage soothed and refueled him. No matter how tired or weak he may have been, he was always willing to take a trip to the cottage, so he could sit on the deck overlooking the waters of Echo Bay.

Don was the ultimate hockey fan. He played hockey, his children and grandchildren play hockey, and he would not miss a game. He supported Jennifer, Melanie, and Matthew through many years of ice sports as a parent and a coach. Even more thrilling was being able to watch his grandchildren excel in sport. He was a great supporter of community club sports, and many friendships were formed through the years. If you know Don, it is probably through community involvement in Charleswood.

Along with his brother Reg, Don owned Golden Plains Agro. in Brunkild, Manitoba. Their stellar reputation in the business world was well known. Don worked long hours in those years building their business. Through his stories we all got to know his farming customers. He valued each person that walked through their doors. After his brother’s untimely death Don kept the business going for a few years. It was in 2001 that Don decided to follow in his father’s footsteps as a carpenter and start a new venture with his son Matt as his business partner. Together they formed Golden Plains Envirodome and Shelters. Don and Matt worked, laughed, and played side by side for many years and together built a prosperous business.

Don was a good man who was loved and respected by all. He was so proud of the family that he and Barb built. His last words were “I Love You” to his precious Barb. He was a proud husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He would want each of us to hold our families close, raise a glass, and two step around the dance floor. His light and love will be missed by all of those who had the honour of knowing him.

The family would like to thank the incredible doctors and nurses at Cancer Care Manitoba and the Grace Hospital ICU, especially Dr. Emily Rimmer, Lindsey, Alexis, and Marie. Their care and guidance over the last four years has been remarkable. The family would also like to acknowledge the outpouring of love and kindness bestowed upon us in the days since Don’s passing. Even in our most troubled times our hearts were full.

“In the end, it all comes down to this; I thought I had more time to love you” Blake Aiden

A celebration of life will take place on Saturday, January 14th at The Gates on Roblin (6945 Roblin Blvd, Headingley, MB), at 2pm.