Travis Gitzel
Posted Oct 4, 2021 | 2:09 PM
March 9, 1967 – September 29, 2021
It is with heavy hearts, we mournfully announce the passing of Travis Gitzel on September 29th, 2021 at the age of 54 Years. Travis passed away peacefully surrounded by love and family at the QEII Hospital in Grande Prairie after a short battle with cancer.
Travis was born in Grande Prairie Alberta on March 9th, 1967, to Walter & Irene Gitzel. Travis grew up in the Debolt area and attended the Ridgevalley School, he pursued many passions like hunting, trapping, fishing, rodeo and attending Peace Country Pioneer Camps just to name a few, all of which led him back to his love of the outdoors. His entire life was spent in the bush, and he wouldn’t have wanted it any other way. Trapping and hunting were two of his favorite activities, he fell in love with the bush as a young child when his parents would take him on the family trapline and that love stayed with him until his last day.
The only thing Travis loved more than the bush was his family, he is survived by his Mother Irene Gitzel, Wife Diane Gitzel, Son Lane (Alexis), Step Daughters Miranda and Shelbie (Haakin), Step sons Dallas and Jaden as well as his 3 beautiful grandchildren Ryder, Fawkes and Harlowe.
Travis took any chance he could to share his wealth of knowledge with his children and grandchildren, he spent as much time as he could teaching his son his way of life the way his father had taught him. He met the love of his life, Diane, 22 years ago and they have been exploring together ever since. They were married in 2015 but had already established an incredible life and family together, the love they have for one another was always undeniable, and that love grew with each grandchild. Travis was so proud of his children and grandchildren and he loved everyone in his life fiercely, without condition, whether family or friend you knew that he would always have your back.
Travis was driven and passionate about every challenge he faced, and he would overcome every hurdle with tenacity. He explored many careers in his 54 years including farming, oilfield consulting, and most recently becoming a Snap On Tools Franchisee. He was one of the best salesmen around, he was charismatic, charming and confident, he excelled in his career very quickly, determined to be the best and the best he was. He won multiple awards throughout his Snap On career and was very proud of the business he had built.
Travis was pre-deceased by his Father, Walter Edward Gitzel and Father in Law, George Eldridge. Travis will continue to be remarkably loved and intensely missed.
Thank you to all the nurses on 5N, 3N, PEDS (he was a kid at heart), EMS, Emergency and Dr. Owanga, your kind words and support helped us through this difficult time.
A private Celebration of Life will be held at the Bezanson Church on October 8th at 2pm.
Memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the charity of one’s choice.
Care entrusted to Bear Creek Funeral Home 780-830-7742 www.bearcreekfuneral.com
- Date : 2021-09-29
- Location : Grande Prairie, Alberta