DIETRICH, Werner

Visit the Sarnia Cremation Services website to send your condolences and support.

Mr. Werner Wilhelm Dietrich, age 97 years, passed away peacefully with his family by his side, on 20 September 2026, at Lambton Meadowview Villa in Petrolia Ontario, following a brief illness.

Werner was born on 16 September 1929 in Nassaven, East Prussia, the only child of Wilhelm Dietrich and Katarina Henkler. He emigrated to Canada in 1951 and eventually found his way to Fort William (Thunder Bay) where he met and married the love of his life, Bernhardine (Berni) Schmitz. They shared 66 years together before her passing in 2022. Afterward, he moved to Sarnia, Ontario to be closer to his children.

He had a lifelong passion for learning with an innate curiosity about many subjects. He was particularly fond of Greek mythology, history, medicine and electronics, and read voraciously. Shortly after his arrival in Canada, he taught himself how to repair televisions and spent many evenings making house calls after working at his day job as an electrician in the paper-making industry. He enjoyed growing fresh vegetables and taking daily multi kilometer walks after retiring. He embraced technology and proudly sported an Apple watch right up to his passing.

Lac Des Mille Lacs held a special place in Werner’s heart. He spent many summers at the trailer, fishing on the lake with his family and friends and creating many fond memories. He and Berni would be on the lake, no matter the weather and they made the best “fish cookies” around.

He is survived by his children Suzan (Doug) Johnson and Lorne (Sarah Kerwin) Dietrich; grandchildren Travis (Karleen) Johnson, Gregory and Samuel Dietrich; and great-grandchildren: Keegan and Tessa Johnson.

Dad, you lived life well, with honour and integrity. You will be forever missed by us all. Prost!

In honour of Werner’s memory, donations may be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice Sarnia-Lambton – the upcoming Petrolia Rural site.