In Loving Memory of Hans Fink
With profound sorrow, we announce the peaceful passing of Hans Fink, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. On July 6, 2023, Hans departed at the age of 87, surrounded by his adoring family.
Born in Germany on September 8, 1935, Hans was the treasured son of Maria Walburga and Michael Fink and an inspirational figure to his siblings Fred (Maria), Hilda (Jim Stark) and Win (Apple). At 18, alongside his family, Hans moved to Canada to begin a new life, and lived in Hamilton before relocating to Windsor to work in Michigan. He began a long, illustrious engineering career at Chrysler, a testament to his meticulous nature and inventive spirit. At 56, he retired after shaping countless projects with his unique vision.
In addition to his exceptional career, Hans nurtured a lifelong love for singing. His rich, vibrant baritone enriched many choirs throughout his life. His musical journey began in a Hamilton-area German choir and later found him sharing his voice with the Parish of Atonement Jubilee choir in Windsor. His devotion to song continued with the Knights of Columbus Choir, and his performances with the Windsor Light Opera and Windsor Symphony Chorus, particularly the annual ‘Messiah’ concerts, were deeply appreciated by the community.
Beyond singing, Hans’s love for dance was ever-present. His first wife, Betty, was his initial partner in ballroom dance, a passion he carried into his later years. It was during a dance that he met his beloved wife, Loreilei, and their shared love for the rhythm of music defined the early years of their marriage. They tied the knot in 2009, creating a harmonious blend of two families.
Hans often expressed his joy and gratitude for meeting his wife and being welcomed into her beautiful family. This second chapter of his life was filled with love and joy as he picked up golf, was embraced by the Windsor Filipino community, and immersed himself in line dancing. His journey was not just one of physical hobbies but also spiritual exploration. Hans was deeply connected to his faith, finding solace and strength in his relationship with God.
He is survived by his loving wife, Loreilei, his sons Darren and Kevin (Shannon) Fink in British Columbia, his stepchildren Lenard Sagullo (Jhonavie) and kids Philip, Grace, John Rey, Renalyn (Christopher Darmon); Ismael Sagullo; and Tricia Barichello (Terry and kids Matthew and Ryan). His legacy also lives on in his great-grandchildren, Sonita and Jhonavie.
Hans’s life was a symphony of love, joy, and shared experiences, each chapter filled with its unique melody and rhythm. As we navigate the pain of his loss, we find comfort in the memories of his infectious laughter, the sound of his singing, and the legacy he leaves behind.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group in Windsor (donation form below), an organization close to Hans’s heart. A private, family-only viewing will take place, followed by a celebration of life to be announced by the family at a later date.
Rest in peace, dear Hans. Your melodious voice may have gone silent, but your song lives on in our hearts.
