Gerhard passed away with his family at his side at the Medicine Hat Regional Hospital on January 25, 2017. Born on June 14, 1953 at Kandern, Germany, he immigrated to Canada with his family in November 1953. Pre-deceased by his mother, Lydia, in 2014, Gerhard leaves behind his father, Erich; sisters, Edith Bachmeier and Janet Koch (Keith); brother, Harold (Jane); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles. He was educated at Leader Composite School and during his early school years spent time at the Shriners Hospital for Children in Winnipeg for remedial treatment of a physical disability.
While Gerhard was not able to participate in sports activities due to his disability, he loved to swim and became an avid and accomplished pool player. He was a very social person, had many friends – they nicknamed him “General”, and he was tremendously loyal to them. Once Gerhard left school he took a bookkeeping course in Regina, spent some time in Saskatoon and worked as a taxicab dispatcher in Swift Current.
Gerhard moved to Medicine Hat in the early 1980’s and due to his advancing disability was unable to work, but he did live independently for many years in his mobile home. He spent much time visiting with friends at the food court in the Mall as well as downtown and loved to go on trips with his friends. As years went on, Gerhard faced numerous medical issues and was forced to go into group home/care home facilities in Bow Island, Redcliff and Medicine Hat. He resided at Good Samaritan South Ridge Village at the time of his passing.
Key people in his life during his time in Medicine Hat were his nephews, Roger and Dayne Bachmeier, who often helped him with home and yard chores and were special to him. His sister, Edith, was the most special person in his life as she was often his homemaker, always available as a caregiver, and provided much physical, emotional and management support to him. Although he did not always show it, Gerhard loved his family and their visits and he had a big heart for people. He lived life in a courageous manner and on his own terms as he continuously pursued his own path and priorities.
The Funeral Service will be in the LEADER ALLIANCE CHURCH, 201 – 1st Street East, Leader, Saskatchewan, on Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 2:00 p.m. CST with Pastor Clint Oakman officiating. Memorial gifts in Gerhard’s memory can be made to the Good Samaritan Society, 550 Spruce Way SE, Medicine Hat, Alberta, T1B 4P1 or to the Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Society, Foothills Hospital, 1403 – 29th Street NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 2T9. Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Gerhard Laich.

• Date : 2017-01-25

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