Eckhard “Paul” Kutzer passed away with his wife by his side as a result of a cardiac arrest on July 6, 2022.
Paul was a determined, intelligent man who could do anything and fix anything he put his mind to. His determined but gentle spirit and kind “teddy bear” heart will be remembered by his wife, Marion, his daughter - Paula Shakotko, (Calvin Shakotko) and their children - Brittney Huerlimann (Franky), Matt Shakotko, Taylor Shakotko, Morgan Shakotko; his daughter, Kathleen Kutzer (Skafti Sinclair) and their children - Tryggvi Sinclair and August Sinclair. He was proud to say he had three great grandchildren, Sophie, Jacob and Carter Huerlimann. He often said his daughters were his greatest accomplishment. He is also survived by several relatives who along with many friends will miss his intellect, his sense of humour and the numerous stories he had to tell.
Paul was born in Meekow, Germany and following the war immigrated with his family to Abbotsford, British Columbia. He worked with the RCMP as a young adult and to this day spoke highly of his “N” troop mates. He went onto a career of 31 years with Parks Canada as a Warden, beginning in Waterton, then to Banff where he became Assistant Chief Park Warden before going to Halifax Regional office, and retiring as Chief Park Warden of Yoho. He had a deep appreciation for nature conservation and protection and gifted this value to his family. Thanks to the Park Warden Service Alumni Society a link to an interview transcript of his years with Parks Canada can be found at https://parkwardenalumni.com/paul-kutzer/ In retirement, for 25 years, he was co-owner of Cascade Realty in Banff, Alberta. He and Marion recently downsized from Canmore, Alberta to Courtenay, BC.
He was able to enjoy life despite health challenges of the past 26 years thanks to the excellent care received from Dr. Patty Edgar. Thanks must also go to his neurologist, Dr. Chris White, and nephrologist Dr. L. Gerrard in Calgary. Under the care of Dr. Scott Manktelow, Dr. Booth and Dr. Chapman he was able to enjoy the past few months on Vancouver Island. Paul wished to be cremated with no formal service.
