Obituary of Johann Romich "Johnny"

Johann "John" Romich "Johnny" 1926 - 2015 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of John "Johnny" Romich on Thursday, December 24, 2015 surrounded by his family. Johann was the middle child of Maria and Josef Romich. He was born in Grünbach, Austria on April 21st, 1926. John grew up in the nearby town of Puchberg, playing the violin with his father and brother in local pubs. Later, he played the clarinet with the City Band and carried his love of music with him to the end. Beautiful music would always bring a tear to his eye. In 1953, at the age of 27 John decided to come to Canada. He made his way to Calgary, where he became a drywaller. He was also a founding member of the Austrian Club and the Schuhplattler Verein. In 1955 he was sent to Cranbrook for work. He loved the mountains and area so much as they reminded him of home, that he decided to stay and open his own drywall company. He met Brigitte in 1957 at her aunt's restaurant, Glur's Cafe (now Apollo Ristorante) and they were married in 1959. They bought Parkview Trailer Court and Laundromat in 1962, and in 1970 they opened Johnny's Laundry & Drycleaning. Skiing had always been a great love of John's. He was a member of the Austrian Ski Patrol & Rescue, and once he was semi-retired he joined the Kimberley Guest Guides. Most weekends you could find him at the hill with his family. Most of all, John enjoyed time with his family, clearing the bush on his property and having daily coffee with his friends at A&W. John leaves behind his loving wife Brigitte, daughters Susie (Jeff), Heidi (Jordon), granddaughter Marlies (Ryan), great grandson Toban Johann, his sister Margaret and nieces Karin (Ken) and Linda. He also leaves behind in Austria, his daughter Veronika, grandson Michael, great grandchildren Tobias and Rosa and many other relatives. He was predeceased by his son Martin Johann, his brother Joseph and his nephew Gerhard. A memorial service for John will be held on Friday, January 8, 2016 at McPherson Funeral Home in Cranbrook at 2:00 pm. Those wishing to make a memorial donation in John's honour may do so to the charity of their choice. Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service. Condolences for the family can be offered at: www.mcphersonfh.com