Siegfried Watzlawek

Siegfried was born on November 8, 1927, in Wehowitz, Germany, to Gertrud and Max Watzlawek. He attended public school, which consisted of only two classrooms. As the eldest of six siblings, he took on responsibilities early. At the age of 14, he began an apprenticeship as a tool and die maker to help support the family.

In 1944, not yet 17 years old, he was drafted into the army and eventually became a prisoner of war near the end of World War II.

In 1954, Siggy decided it was time to move on. He immigrated to Canada with just $39 in his pocket and no knowledge of English. Nevertheless, he began working the very next day for 80 cents an hour. He learned English by attending night school and watching feature films at the theatre.

After more than a decade in Canada, and having become a Canadian citizen, Siegfried moved to Los Angeles. There he met Lydia, and they married in Las Vegas in 1968. They started a family in the home they owned in the San Fernando Valley, and Siggy made a living running a small electrical appliance repair store that he owned. In LA, Sig was active in rifle competitions and loved playing chess—even by mail.

In 1979, the family moved back to Canada and settled in Lakeview Heights. They bought a beautiful lot, and Sig built the family home, completing it in a year and a half. He worked at Brenda Mines for a few years, then at Shannon Lake Golf Course until he retired in 1992. Even in retirement, he never really stopped working. Siggy remained passionate about building, fixing, and helping others—always doing odd jobs for friends and family.

Sig’s other passion was the German Canadian Harmony Club, where he served as president of the SKAT club for many years. Sig and Lydia made many lifelong friends there and remained active members until the day he passed, still playing cards once a week with the gang.

Siegfried and Lydia remained in their home until 2024, when they moved on to their next adventure in life at a beautiful retirement home. His final year was filled with new friendships and experiences.

Siegfried passed away on March 30, 2025, at the age of 97. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Lydia; his children, Traudl (Jurgen) in Germany, Mark (Michelle) of West Kelowna, and Tanya (Scott), also of West Kelowna; and his two granddaughters, Kirsten and Lauren, who kept him young for so long and were the apples of his eye.

Honoring Siegfried’s wishes—he always disliked a fuss—there will be no formal service at this time. Condolences can be sent to Northwood Retirement Home or please leave a condolence on the Tribute Wall above.