June 12, 1925 - November 24, 2015
Svend, age 90, passed away peacefully at home with Helen, his wife of 54 years, at his side. He was predeceased by his son Alan and is survived by his wife Helen, sister Grethe (Corni) and family, daughters Eva and Sonja, son Ken (Teresa) and grandchildren Natasha, Brenden, Vanessa, Evan, Lucy and Neil.
Svend was born in Svendborg Denmark and in his youth was active in the Danish resistance during WWII. He joined the Navy after the war had ended where his work included decommissioning sea mines in the Copenhagen Harbour. He was a proud member of the navy soccer and handball teams playing goal keeper for both.
Svend was a successful businessman in Denmark but left after he got the call to join his friends in Canada who needed a goal keeper for their soccer club. He immigrated to Calgary at age 30 with daughter Eva and joined the Millican United Soccer Club and the Vikings Handball Club. He was an outstanding athlete and valued sportsmanship and fair play over winning. It was while coaching the women's handball team that he met and fell in love with Helen.
In Calgary Svend worked in the construction industry and enjoyed hunting, fishing and camping along with his sports. He and Helen spent many summers with their children camping in Halfmoon Bay before moving there permanently in the early 70's. He started Superior Drywall and worked at that until retirement at age 60.
Never one to sit around, Svend became a gatherer. He and Helen walked many miles in the forests of the Sunshine Coast picking salal and mushrooms. He loved the ocean and was happy to live where he could fish, crab and dig for clams right outside his door. At home he tended to an ever increasing garden of fruits and vegetables and turned out the most delicious smoked meats. He also loved to explore the United States and Canada in his motorhome and enjoyed socializing with fellow travelers. When he wasn't traveling or producing something to eat he was keeping up with current events and embracing new technologies much to the delight of his grandchildren.
Svend was happiest in the company of his family who will miss the twinkle in his eyes, his sense of humor, his magic tricks, his frankness and his love.
The family wish to express sincere thanks to Dr. Berinstein and Dr. Morantz, the ER and Critical Care nurses at Sechelt Hospital, Michael and Heather Beals of Vital Aire and the wonderful palliative care team lead by Petrina Wing.
Svend requested that no service be held but that we "Skol" in his memory.

There will always be heartache
And often a silent tear;
Remembering the precious memories
Of the days when you were here.
We hold you close within our hearts
And there you will always remain
Walking with us throughout our lives
'Til we meet again.