Obituary of Theodor Janischewski

Well respected in his community and much beloved by his family, Theodor (Ted) Janischewski,  passed away suddenly on June 18, 2022 on the family farm in Kersley. The 160 acres that was nestled up to the community of Kersley was a dream of his for many years.  It became a reality in 1981, and then it was a place he never wanted to leave. Even at the age of 75 he continued to maintain 25 plus head of cattle, chickens, and llamas on his own. As well as all the other "things" that come with running a farm. As much as hard work was just a part of everyday life, so was Ted’s love for providing opportunities for fun and entertainment.  He was central to providing so many happy memories made on the farm.  Daughter, Amanda (Jordan) and son, Brent (Janelle) were both married on the homestead.  Those times with “Dad” in childhood began what have now become lasting traditions of year-round fun.  Everything from splashing and sledding at the creek, snowmobiling in the fields, pulling friends on the toboggan, hours of dirt-biking on the homemade jump track, horseback riding and of course who could forget “Sam”. Upon becoming "Opa", he was intent on having his grandchildren experience the thrills of farm life, with him in the driver's seat. He was planning to buy a new tractor with a cab “so the grandkids would be comfortable when they came out to the farm”.  Visits with the grandkids often included feeding apples to the horses, climbing on the hay bales, wagon rides, hotdog roasts, and dirt-biking through the farm and into the lease land trails.

Ted never forgot where he came from, showing a sincere fondness for his German heritage.  Perhaps hoping to pass it on or simply for the pleasure of hearing it spoken, he would every so often, make a point of inserting bits of german words and phrases into conversation.  Ted was born in Lebenstedt, Germany on February 6, 1947. The eldest son of Tadeusz and Else Janischewski (predeceased) they immigrated to Canada in 1948 where he was joined by four new brothers and sisters Eleanor (John-predeceased) Wiersema,  Ronald (Rita) Janischewski, Rita Janischewski (predeceased), and Victor Janischewski. They all grew up on a raspberry farm in Sardis, from there he moved to Squamish, and then to Quesnel where he met Trudi on a blind date. She supported him in his dream to have a farm. Together they worked the land, while raising their three children Sonja Janischewski,  Amanda (Jordan) Booth and Brent (Janelle)Janischewski.  Ted’s family was very important to him, he was always eager to spend time with his 7 grandchildren Ava, Mackenzie and Rue Echle; Hayden and Nova Booth; Maxwell and Grady Janischewski.  He was heard recently saying, what brings him the most joy is watching his grandkids play soccer.

As a dedicated member of the Kersley Volunteer Fire Department, Ted was often found helping to fight brush and house fires in the area. You could also recently find him visiting with community members at Kersley Koffee Klatch.

Ted’s happy place was being on the farm with his family.  Everywhere you look is a reminder, everywhere you step holds a memory, and everything you touch is right where he left it.   

A Celebration of Life will be held on the Sisters Creek Farm on August 13, 2022 at 1 pm.