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The family of Heinz Niederhauser uploaded a photo
Wednesday, June 14, 2017
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Joabe posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Hi Cindy!And, to think how much I just spent to have one of my daughter's soienr pictures done this way! I will have to check this out...when I get up the courage! The only reason why I didn't to it is because I'm in fear that I'll get very upset if I find out that I could have saved a ton of money. Yes....denial! No way to start a week...!Just beautiful!Judi
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Ferese posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
OMG! This IS so cool! The vignette you seectled made a beautiful piece of art. The first free second I have, I will be going to the website to see more of what they do. The only bad part is, I don't really have any free wall space but I'm thinking I'm just going to have to find some room somewhere! Thanks so much for sharing.
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Petra Horning (Helewa) posted a condolence
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
I wanted to express my very sincere condolences to the family of Heinz Niederhauser. Heinz was a very special person in my life, contributing an incredible amount to my development as a skier and as a person. He made such a significant impact that I couldn't help but measure all other ski coaches against the very high bar that he had set with me at a young age. He was the first person to call me "Peach", and that nickname is still being used by the people who are closest to me today! I have never forgotten Heinz, he was a force in my life. My deepest sympathies! All the best, Petra Horning
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Ewan Exall posted a condolence
Thursday, February 7, 2008
I am greatly saddened to see another pioneer in the field of Canadian Cross Country Skiing leave us. Heinz was a colleague of my father. My brother and I grew up on the trails with my dad impressing Heinz's tips for better performance upon us. In my mind as a kid he was as much a legend as Jackrabbit Johansen. On behalf of Mike Exall's family, I offer my deepest condolences. Ewan Exall
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Denise Roy posted a condolence
Monday, February 4, 2008
Bonjour Blanche...je pense à toi et j'espère que ça va. Je suis encore très peinée par la mort de Heinz et j'aurais aimé être plus près de toi pour partager ta souffrance et te réconforter. Je t'écris pour te dire que si tu as besoin d'une amie pour quelque soit la raison, rejoins-moi car je n'ai pas tes coordonnées pour te rejoindre. Je te laisse mes coordonnées et j'aimerais bien avoir les tiennes. Si l'occasion se présente, on passera chez toi sans problème pour jaser un peu et tu seras toujours la bienvenue chez nous. Je te souhaite le bonjour et j'espère avoir de tes nouvelles. Mes sympathies et bon courage. Denise Roy 22 rue de l'Éboulis Gatineau J8Z 2T9 819-778-8975 (rés.) 819-953-5147 (bur.) courriel : denise.roy@bst.gc.ca
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Denise Pelletier posted a condolence
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Chère madame, c'est avec stupéfaction que j'ai appris le décès précipité de votre mari. Recevez toute ma sympatie, amitié sincère et récomfort. Je conserve un excellent souvenir de vos charmants enfants lors de leur passage à Franco-ouest. Ils étaient ( et sont sûrement encore ) des modèles auprès des jeunes et moins jeunes comme moi! Madame, je vous souhaite la force de trouver la paix dans la mire de votre belle famille et des souvenirs heureux qui s'y rattachent... et de ceux à venir. Salutations amicales Monsieur Nault se joint à moi dans l'expression de ces bons mots à votre égard. Denise Pelletier
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Norman Mallett posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
My condolences to the Niederhauser family. Heinz will be missed.
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Ray Corbett posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Dear Blanche & Family: The memorial service was a true testament to the man Heinz was. He has been an inspiration to many, for me personally, he was not only my ski coach but a life coach. He offered me employment and shelter when I was without. One of my fondest memories was when he asked me if I wanted to go to 'California' not knowing any better I said "I'd love to go!" Thus began my first of many long runs down the 'California' road to the Hydro lines. His smile will be embedded in my memory along with echos of him calling splits at the top of the biggest hill. Ray
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Miriam Green (Tyson) posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Dear Blanche, Sven and Jana, When I saw Heinz last year in Rossland, he looked the same as he did twenty-some years ago when I was lucky enough to have him as a coach! He's passed on his love of skiing, his dedication to excellence, to so many of us. I hope I can inspire someone like he inspired me. I am thinking of you all. Miriam
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Glen Niederhauser posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
From Pupil No.3 In Ottawa(they misspelled my name),In the newly founded CANSI organization(c.1977)and former City of Ottawa ski instructor.The hardest part of the 2 day course was getting the snow plow right!Something about slow it down. My thanks to the hundreds of people who came out to the Pilon Funeral Home.I was deeply moved to see the positive effect my father had on so many people.I will always appreciate you sharing your personal stories about my father. Sven and Jana,Be proud of your parents and all they have accomplished. To Blanche,Heinz could only have accomplished all he did with a strong women Beside him.You helped shape him into the man we will all remember him to be.Thank you for giving 110% of yourself to help my Dad realize his dreams and find ultimate happiness. Skiing was his love,You were his trésor. My thoughts are with you all Glen
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Liz Inkila posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
It was with great shock that I heard the news of Heinz's passing at Highlands Nordic. I had just spoken to him that morning, looking forward to seeing him in Thunder Bay the next weekend. I am very thankful that we paused on the stairs to talk that morning. After every OCup held at Lappe, Heinz would always take the time and thank the race organizers. That kindness and thoughtfulness was much appreciated. His presence in the cross country community was far reaching. Our deepest condolences to the Neiderhauser family, Liz, Paul, Todd, Lindsay and Laura Inkila Lappe Nordic
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Lyle Cameron posted a condolence
Monday, January 14, 2008
To the entire family, we offer our hearfelt condolences.I was a member of the NCD ski team during the early 1980s and Heinz was my coach. Thanks to Heinz's patient work with me I became a much better XC racer and eventually went on to the national biathlon team. I have many positive memories of Heinz kidding us, pushing us, expecting the very best of us. Linked to Heinz's memory is the Gatineau park which, by the time I left the NCD, I knew by heart. We use to race on the parkway every Sunday morning on roller skis and Heinz had a special run in the woods for us, up to the lookout on King mountain - we called it Heinz's run (I think that I will run it again this summer in his memory). I last spoke with Heinz last winter on the trails (he was with his team) while skiing with my wife Celine, whom he also coached when she was on the national XC team, and we chatted with him for a good 15-20 minutes. It was great to see him again after several years, still as enthusiastic as ever, still coaching and enjoying the woods and the mentoring - it was inspiring to both of us. I am very saddened to realize that I won't ever meet up with him again. His presence however will be very much felt when I return to the trails in the Park. If any of my former teamates read this, let's plan a run this summer in Heinz's memory. You can reach me at lsc@rogers.com.
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famille Attali posted a condolence
Monday, January 14, 2008
notre famille se joint a votre peine mais Heinz sera toujours vivant dans ma mémoire par l'amour des autres , sa gentillesse il sera toujours dans notre coeur nos amitiées pour la famille Pilon , Patrick ,linda ,Audrey ,Sofia Attali
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Shirley Pommier posted a condolence
Monday, January 14, 2008
To dear Blanche and children, how sorry I was not to be able to share your day of farewell in Arnprior as I am at the moment working up in Fort Simpson NWT. I share the sorrow of so many people who loved your beloved Heinz and we will miss him so much. The memories abound and will be shared over all the years ahead. I hope the love of so many friends across the nordic world will give some comfort in the difficult days ahead. I look forward to an opportunity to contacting you upon my return home next month. love Shirley
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Caroline Dinis posted a condolence
Monday, January 14, 2008
Jana, Sven et Blanche, Je viens tout juste d'apprendre aujourd'hui cette triste nouvelle. Ma famille et moi vous envois toutes nos sincères sympathies. Nos pensées sont avec vous. Je me souviens toujours de Heinz lorsqu'il était dans ça cuisine a faire des gâteries pour tout le monde. Comme il était fin! Je lui souhaite de la paix et il sera dans mes prières. Jana, appel moi au 613-513-9636 (cell), travail 613-728-9453x243 et a la maison 613-831-0589. J'aimerais bien te voir.
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Gareth Jones posted a condolence
Monday, January 14, 2008
Heinz, You were an inspiration to many xc skiers across the country. I can still hear you calling-out timing splits on the ski trail and I can still feel those week-long training camps at Lowny Lake. Your fatherly guidance humour, and coaching knowledge will be with me for a lifetime. Thank you! Gareth
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Anna Geiger-Whitlock posted a condolence
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Heinz was an amazing coach. His attitude and guidance touched many people in the ski world. His encouragement helped me through out my ski carrier. I remember once while racing a dog getting loose on the course and tripping me and one of his athletes up. He grabbed the dog and as we rounded the corner I could hear him telling the owner off. This is just one of many great memories I have of Heinz. For me there was hardly a race when I didn't see Heinz he was an essential part to the ski world and it will be different racing with out seeing him on the hills with his race list calculating splits and saying: "Go Anna, up up up nice technique now.”
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Don Morris posted a condolence
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Condolences to the family on the loss of Heinz-His enthusiasm and infectious energy were attributes that made him a remarkable human being. Don Morris-Coach-St. Mark Catholic High School-Manotick Ont.
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Claudette Maltais posted a condolence
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Chère Blanche Mes pensées sont pour toi mes sincères sympathie. Si il te prennais une envie de venir visiter le pays de tes ancètres il me fara plaisir de te recevoir. Au plaisir de te croisé sur les pistes Claudette Maltais 15 Lane 51 Charlo Nb e8E 2X2 506-684-5256
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Lara Mountain posted a condolence
Saturday, January 12, 2008
I have very fond memories of Heinz and training in Lowney Lake... so many times when I would be puffing up a hill during a time trial, Heinz would pop his head around a corner and shout one of his encouragements, such as “Lara this is not a picnic” and “hup, Hup HUP!!” I never got the chance to tell him what an amazing coach he was, how I felt that he truly believed in me, and how much it really meant that he would take the time to cheer me on the sidelines. I am truly saddened to know that I will not hear his voice on the trails anymore but I consider myself lucky that I had him as a coach for even a small period of time, though his enthusiasm has resonated largely throughout my life even after leaving Lowney Lake long ago. He really was the best coach I ever had and I will miss him.
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The Cuddy Family, Sault Ste Marie posted a condolence
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Heinz’s beaming smile and words of encouragement to all racers on the course will be sadly missed as will his sage advice from the back of the room at the coaches meeting. Our deepest condolences to Blanche, Sven, Jana and family.
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Don and Sheila posted a condolence
Saturday, January 12, 2008
We will always remember the smile on his face as he started a loppet. Our sincere condolences to Blanch and family. Don and Sheila Coleman New Brunswick
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Jane Vincent posted a condolence
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Dear Blanche, Greetings Blanche from Jane Vincent in the Yukon. I lived with you at Lowney L the year Jana was born. Heinz inspired me and believed in me tremendously. My proudest moment of my ski career was calling Heinz from the Lake Placid clubhouse to share the news that I'd just placed 4th at the World Juniors. He was the coach that made it happen. My first trip to Europe was a month long sojourn in Norway with Heinz; that was a dream come true for a young aspiring racer such as I was. I hope in my lifetime I will be able to inspire and support someone the way Heinz did for me. He was truly a gem. With love and best wishes for peace and strength during this difficult time, Jane
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Sylvie Diane (Larocque) Alletson posted a condolence
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Mes sincères condoléances à toi Blanche, tes enfants et la famille. Je vous souhaite beaucoup de courage en ces moments difficiles. Que les pensées positives des gens qui vous entourent vous réconfortent.
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Robert Yalden lit a candle
Friday, January 11, 2008
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With profound respect for all that Heinz built and leaves behind - and with deep appreciation for all that Heinz did to motivate and shape generations of Canadian cross-country skiers.
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Liam Brennan posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
I'll always remember Heinz seemingly being at the top of every hill, bellowing. "Up, Up, Up, Up, Ya, Ya, Ya, Ya, Tempo, Tempo, go, go, go!" He had an ability to motivate that I haven't seen since. He was immovable, and seemed immortal.I find many of his sayings and ideals peppered throughout my own coaching. He never accepted anything less than your best, but was always there with a kind word and motivation when you felt you had fallen short. I'm sad to see him go, but I'll always have my memories of his talks, jokes, and hearty (read:painful) pats on the back.
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Alan and Pat Mortimer posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
Our condolences to Blanche, Jana, Sven and the rest of Heinz's family. Heinz was truly a great man, in skiing and in life. He influenced so many lives and has been as much a part of skiing in Ottawa as gossip corner itself. Above all, Heinz brought to his life and to all of us in the sport a tremendous sense of integrity No politics, no double-talk just the straight goods to athletes, to coaches and to administrators. I hope he is still in the room when important decisions need to be made in our sport. Heinz said "never let an athlete see you snowplow" that's the way he lived his life and I hope it is the way I can continue to live mine.
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Guy Laviolette posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
I met Heinz at the 1981 Canadian Jr National Junior, we hosted in Campbellton,NB. I instantly admired his dedication to his athletes, his drive to do everything for them, so they have the chance to perform well. I have been involve in the sport at the national level since, and cross path with Heinz many times. Blanche and family, Heinz may be gone and it's sad for you, your family, but his spirit of competition will live for ever. My sympathy, and good luck.
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Frances Rennie posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
When our daughter was just a young girl, she entered a fun race at Nakkertok and who ended up standing together on the podium but Jana, Claire and Peri - and a big booming voice said to me, "your daughter should be racing!" That was our introduction to Heinz. After that, our families would go on long ski outings together that were great fun for everyone, especially the stops for lunch at a cabin. The three girls became good friends and my daughter MADE us let her join the racing team. Sven and our son, John, also became friends and have raced together for many years. Such was the power of Heinz's infectious enthusiasm. We remember clearly an OC race at Onaping. Claire, Jana and Peri were competing against each other in a close race. Heinz would run beside the girls, urging them on, offering encouragement and small tips on technique to get them up the hill. Such was Heinz's love and commitment to the sport that he offered his support and advice without hesitation even to close competitors. We will miss him greatly. Blanche, Jana and Sven, he and all of you have been a major influence in the direction our lives have taken and for that we are most grateful. Heinz knew that at the core of a successful ski programme was getting kids to ski together. In this he excelled. Our hearts go out to you in this sad time. Frances, Don, Claire, John and David
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Risto Santala posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
It was very sad to hear of Heinz's sudden passing.I have known Heinz since early seventies,at that time we often travelled together to different ski meets.And since have met him every year in different ski meets.I'll always remember his way of greeting me in Finnish when we met.Ski meets will not be the same without him there. Me and my wife send our sincere condolences to Niederhauser family. Risto Santala.
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anne & Iain Mettam posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
Dear Sven and family. We wish to give you our sincere sympathy on the passing of your Dad,Heinz. We will miss seeing him in Thunder Bay at all the races and at the training camps. He was a great man in our sport and will be remembered by all. anne & iain
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Raezelle Goldmann posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
To Blanche and family, Gustave and Laurie join me in sending you our deepest sympathy on Heinz's passing. Heinz was my first boss at Cross Country Canada more than 30 years ago and went on to become a friend as well, not only to me but to my whole family. We shared many wonderful days at the campground and enjoyed his wonderful baking. Although our paths diverged, Heinz is never far from my mind on our mutual birthday and I will continue to remember him at that time. May his memory bring you comfort. Raezelle
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Diane and Jim Thomson posted a condolence
Friday, January 11, 2008
Dear Blanche, Jana and Sven: The ski world has lost a dedicated and wonderful volunteer and mentor but we have lost a dear friend. No matter the circumstance, whenever we encountered Heinz, he was cheerful, positive and full of enthusiasm. We always enjoyed coming together on a trail in the Gatineau Park, at a team captains' meeting or during a race because Heinz would have a smile on his face and a kind and encouraging word. We will miss him but think of him often with great memories of the time he shared with us. Our sincere sympathy to you and all of his family. Diane and Jim Thomson
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Marlene & Michael Roach posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Our Condolences to the Neiderhauser family. Having been involved with Heinz through the NCD and the Ontario Team, we know that he will be greatly missed. We will miss his pleasant smile and recognition on the trail. Marlene & Michael Roach
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Dave and Paddy Dyer posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Blanche and family. What a tragedy. Our most sincere condolences to your family. It is hard to imagine a ski race in Ontario or Quebec without Heinz being trail side encouraging skiers of all ages and abilities. Heinz was a mentor and leader within the community. His passion for the sport and life in general will never be matched. He has touched so many young athletes and helped them all maximize their abilities. Young athletes he worked with in the 80's are now Jackrabbit leaders, coaches and parents nurturing the next generation of cross country skiers. Their love and commitment to the sport is a testament to Heinz's impact on their young lives. I have fond memories of the times we spent together in the Ontario Coaching Program. Heinz the Master Coach, the father figure to his young skiers and the innovator always looking for the best opportunities to test the skills and minds of his athletes. The long runs at Lowney Lake were not for the faint of heart, the long bus rides to Northern Ontario, Thunder Bay and the Northern USA were trips to remember forever. All good times and great memories. Many thanks for sharing him with us. He will be sadly missed. Dave & Paddy Dyer
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Debbie Chenier posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Dear Blanche, I can't begin to tell you how shocked I was at the news about Heinz, I see him quite often when grocery shopping and we always chatted and teased each other as usual. God Bless you and your children, for I know he was a wonderful husband and father. I know you are a strong girl and are confident you will be able to handle this tragic loss. You and the children will always be in my prayers and it will be very hard on them. I don't think there is ever a time when you don't need your dad. I hope you have fully recovered from your car accident and please call if I can help in any way. Although I will be away I will be back on the 23 of January. I'll call you when I get home. Debbie, Paul Blair & Blake I will be thinking of you
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Robert Martin posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
To Sven, Jana and Family, I was surprised to hear of Heinz passing, and I hope that you are all doing well. It is no surprise that Heinz was a coach and passionate skier until his last moments, as he has always been both of these at heart. I have had the fortune of training and racing under Heinz direction, and I will never forget his quarky sense of humour, his fierce passion for coaching racing and training, and his hilarious stories of ski days past. He also made pretty memorable homemade chocolate and beer bread that I still bug Sven about! Kanata, Ottawa, Ontario, and Canada owe much to Heinz, and we will miss him. But be it Ontario cup races, Ontario camps, National champs, OUA champs, or OFSAA champs he will be there in our hearts and minds. Robb Martin
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Tina Opsal posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
My condolences to Heinz's family, he is a skiing figure that will not be forgotten. Yes, I will never forget Heinz from those races in the early 70's, guaranteed to be at the top of the biggest hill giving splits and that voice you could hear bellowing out before you rounded the corner to climb the hill. Or those days at Hollyburn where we would spend an entire day perfecting our wax, "is it perfect, go back and try something else" Two years ago my son came home from Nationals saying "hey mom I think I heard that coach you have talked about yelling at kids going up the hill." Then occasionally I would here that voice again out at the Canmore Nordic Center at a big event. Heinz will surely never be forgotten in the skiing community. Our best to all of his family. Tina Opsal de Freitas
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Lise LeBlanc, Onaping Falls Nordics Ski Club posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
The skiing community has lost a great man. On behalf of the Onaping Falls Nordics Ski Club I would like to offer our condolences to the entire Niederhauser family. I have known Heinz for many years and every time we met it was a unique and enriching experience. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Denis Lapointe posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Chère Blanche, Sven et Jana, Je suis très attristé du départ de Heinz. J'avais beaucoup de plaisir a discutrer avec lui, toujours jovial, il était une source d'inspiration pour plusieurs d'entre nous. Je vous souhaite mes sincères condoléances, je garderai de beaux souvenirs de cet homme exceptionnel.
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Anita Hamilton posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Dear Blanche, Jana and Sven: I cannot begin to tell you how upset I feel on hearing this very sad news. My thoughts and my heart are with you and I send you strength to help carry you through this very difficult time. I am so sorry that I will miss the service on Saturday, but I am in Germany at the moment and will arrive home one day too late to attend. Heinz was an amazing man. He touched and influenced so many people with his infectious love of skiing. It is comforting that he passed away doing that which he loved doing - something any of us can only wish for. I remember how we used to joke that his mother must have had a difficult birth, what with those skiis attached to his feet. He will be sorely missed. I am with you in spirit. All my love, Anita
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Paul Graner posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
To the Niederhauser Family, I have no end of life lessons and fond memories of Heinz. His zest for life came through each and every day, with everything he did and to everyone he came in contact with. In the early 80’s, I spent many days and months living and working with Heinz on the road, as we travelled to ski races and training camps all over Canada. At the time, I did not know how very lucky I was, nor that I was working under one of the best coaches and motivators of all time. I was a young and inexperienced apprentice coach and I took the opportunity to soak up every thing I could. I was still living at home, so in addition to a steep learning curve in coaching, I also had a lot to learn about life. Heinz taught me many important life lessons, including how to eat well and how to decorate and repair the stark apartments we called home in the training camps in Lab City. He always worked hard and looked after those under his care - athletes, coaches and family. I remember his excitement when he bought the first pair of skis for his kids in Vernon over 20 years ago. Sven wasn’t even walking yet! Heinz was concerned for the welfare of his young coaches in the summer. He would say we were “like lettuce”. We could be crisp and fresh (in the winter) or sitting on a shelf rotting away (in the summer). When he found out I was unemployed one spring he hired me on the spot (and housed me too), to help he and Glen in their first year of building swim pools. Despite hard, physical work during the days installing pools, he built in even more training, by making us ride our bikes to and from the work sites. After I left his tutelage, I continued to look for him every time I was skiing in the Gatineau Park. Any time I was at a race where he was coaching, a smile came to my face as I reflected on my memories of our coaching times together. I loved watching him in action and doing one of the things he loved most in life and was exceptional at – coaching his kids. One of the great coaching lessons Heinz tried to instil in me was the need to keep finding ways to motivate the racers. I don’t think Heinz realized that this coaching lesson also became a life lesson for me. His passion for skiing and life motivated me in ways he never knew. The years intimately working with Heinz were some of the best of my life, and left me with memories and lessons I will always cherish. I will miss him. Paul Graner (or as Heinz would say in his Swiss accent…Pauwly!)
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Toni Scheier and Family posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
To Blanche, Jana, Sven, Tom, Glen, Lars and your families I would like to pass on our condolences on Heinz's passing. I have known Heinz for many years, as a friend, mentor and colleague and there are a few memories that stick out for me that demonstrate why he was such a wonderful person. I have known Heinz since the early 70's when he was the S. Ont. coach I was a club level wannabe teenage ski racer. I still to this day remember his booming voice (something mentioned by many others) while racing on a long uphill at Horseshoe Valley. Heinz cajoled me/encouraged me to keep up the pace as I watched the back of the Vellend brothers disappear over the summit. I also remember his friendly advice that if I actually trained instead of chasing a ball over a flat soccer field that I might become a better skier. As a club level racer he inspired me to continue in the sport and the fact that he as S. Ont. coach made time for someone that likely wasn't bound for an illustrious racing career, shows the class he had and the interest in helping everyone develop in the sport. As a young club coach when Heinz was the Canadian Program Director I remember the 1980 Canadian Championships when I had landed a van in the ditch on an icy road. Heinz was driving by and took it upon himself to help me get towed out. This was despite the fact that he probably had many other things to do that race morning and he also was on crutches. He inspired me as a coach when I took my Level 3 coaching course from him and even more so when he was my Master Coach in Ontario for a year. He was always ready with important words of advice and the occasional sarcastic bit of humour. While he was very serious about the sport he always remembered it is sport and there was always time for a joke and a ski. As I moved on to Ottawa and my job at the National office Heinz and I continued to stay in frequent contact. I sublet my first apartment from him when some circumstances happened that mean't he had found alternative accommodation. In my early days at the National office he continued to provide advice from his time at National, including a comment that always stayed with me, to "slow down a little because if I didn't I would burn out in a year". We had frequent conversations, often when the selection criteria came out, and Heinz was always forthright but polite and always willing to listen and consider all points of view. He was continually trying to upgrade his skills and knowledge so he could improve his abilities to develop other athletes and coaches. The Canadian medals in cross country skiing in recent years can be traced back in part to the significant efforts Heinz made to advance the sport, it's athletes and coaches. Heinz had a tremendous positive influence on my involvement in the sport and his legacy will live on in the people he inspired and the people that they inspired!
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The Roth family (Alain,Maryvonne, Ewen, Solen) posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
It is in such circumstances that despite time and distance we feel how close we are from all our friends from the Ottawa area and particularly from the Xcountry skiing community. Among them, Hans was a model to us both as a man and as a skier.
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Judy and Mike Mappin posted a condolence
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Our sincere condolences to the Niederhauser family. Heinz' smiling face and booming, encouraging voice will be missed on all the ski trails in Canada. He will be remembered.
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Gunnar posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
I can't say I know Heinz at all. However we met by chance in the Gats one early morning a few weeks ago at Huron while enjoying the great conditions. He thought he knew me but was mistaken. We chatted about skiing and the usual stuff and then he quizzed me about my name and then off we went our separate ways... I'm glad I had the opportunity to meet him.
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Suzanne et Pierre Trudeau -Skinouk posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Ma chère Blanche, Nous sommes très peinés d'apprendre cette triste nouvelle. Heinz était quelqu'un de bien et c'était toujours un plaisir de le rencontrer et de jaser avec lui sur les pistes de ski de fond. Pierre et moi t'offrons nos plus sincères condoléances et beaucoup de courage. Suzanne et Pierre Trudeau
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Robert Faltus posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
My sincere sympathies for your loss. Heinz will be missed.
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Ronald Faltus posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
My condolences to the Niederhauser family. Heinz will be missed.
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Nakkertok Nordic Ski Clum posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
On behalf of Nakkertok Nordic Ski Club I would like to offer our sincere condolences to Blanch, Lars, Tom, Glen, Sven and Jana and the full extended family of Heinz. Heinz has touched many lives in the families of Nakkertok and we are deeply saddened by his passing. His influence and passion lives on in many of our skiers and he will always remain a centrepiece of Ottawa's Nordic community. We hope that during the following days you feel our love and support, and over time that the tributes made in Heinz's honour will give you comfort during your sad times, and replace them with happy memories. Sincerely, Margo Crawford President, Nakkertok Nordic
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Team Hardwood - Jack Sasseville posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
On behalf of all of the members of Team Hardwood, I would like to pass on our condolences to Blanch, Sven and Jana for their loss. Heinz was a tremendous influence on me throughout my career and as a result he had an influence on all of the skiers that have been a part of Team Hardwood. His positive and upbeat attitude, his love of skiing and his ability to motivate people set an example that I have tried to follow in my own career. Heinz is one of the major reasons that I have become the coach that I am and his influence will continue in skiing as long as I am coaching and as long as my skiers continue in the sport as skiers or coaches. I am but one of hundreds that he has touched in this way. While it is way too early to take someone like Heinz I know that he was doing something that he loved. I hope that we are all so lucky.
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Shelagh MacDonald posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
First of all I want to say to Blanche, Jana, Sven, Lars, Tom and Glen that my thoughts are with you at the loss of this wonderful man who was your husband/father and who so many of us cherished. Heinz was a very special person in my life and I am extremely saddened that he has left us so suddenly and at such a young age. The only good thing is that he died doing what he loved and what he devoted his life to. As I look at his picture on this website, that smiling face is how I will always remember Heinz. He was such a vibrant, energetic, devoted and inspirational person. I started skiing in 1969 when we moved to Canada. Just a few years later my Dad, Neil MacDonald, convinced Heinz to establish and coach a ski team in southern Ontario. For the next several years, my summers were full of training camps at Heinz's place in Raymond and my winters were spent ski racing just about every week-end. I can still remember my first race at Midland when I was 10 - Heinz's son Tom and I duked it out on the ski course with Heinz and my Dad skiing somewhere behind us, yakking away about coaching and skiing or whatever - and yelling the occasional encouragement to Tom and I. Heinz was a huge inspiration to me. Yup, he was a tough coach but he gave you his all. Nothing inspired me more than hearing his booming voice at the top of the toughest hill on the course. No matter how exhausted I felt, he always inspired me to push harder because he was there encouraging me and calling me Sunshine. I remember one Ontario Winter Games in the mid-70's when the waxing was really challenging. Heinz never gave up trying to find the best wax combination for his team - right up until it was time to head for the starting gate, he had the blowtorch and his thumb spreading the gooey mixture on our skis. We always had the best wax of the day! In recent years I didn't see Heinz much but I was always thrilled to meet him out on the trails in the Gatineau Park. We always had a big smile and a hug for each other. Heinz will always have a special place in my heart. Shelagh MacDonald
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Tom Lobsinger posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
It was with great sadness that I heard, on Sunday,the news of Heinz's passing. Only the day before I'd seen him, joking as usual, early in the morning in the wax room. As a Team Hardwood parent of 3 racers I'd become acquainted with Heinz at the many Ontario Cup races over the last 5 years. I was always impressed with his open and warm demeanor with even such an insignificant player in the cross country ski world as myself. I know that he will be sorely missed by all of us but hope that his spirit will be carried on by those who had the good fortune to have shared some time with Heinz on those frosty winter mornings that he brightened up.
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George LeFeuvre, New Brunswick,CANADA posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Having known Heinz since the early years of the seventies, when he would come to Labrador City with his team for early on snow training, I have many fond memories of time spent with Heinz. Cross country skiing in Canada has suffered a great loss with the passing of Heinz. I will always remember the special time we spent together in Canmore during the Winter Olympics in 1988. I send my condolences to his family.
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George LeFeuvre, New Brunswick,CANADA posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Having known Heinz since the early years of the seventies, when he would come to Labrador City with his team for early on snow training, I have many fond memories of time spent with Heinz. Cross country skiing in Canada has suffered a great loss with the passing of Heinz. I will always remember the special time we spent together in Canmore during the Winter Olympics in 1988. I send my condolences to his family.
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George LeFeuvre, New Brunswick,CANADA posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Having known Heinz since the early years of the seventies, when he would come to Labrador City with his team for early on snow training, I have many fond memories of time spent with Heinz. Cross country skiing in Canada has suffered a great loss with the passing of Heinz. I will always remember the special time we spent together in Canmore during the Winter Olympics in 1988. I send my condolences to his family.
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Julie Boisvert posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Très chère Blanche, Heinz me manquera beaucoup, ma mère et moi pensons très fort à toi, Sven et Jana. Nous sommes avec vous de tout coeur. Nous aurions aimé être présentes à vos côtés ce samedi, pour faire un dernier adieux à Heinz, malheureusement nous sommes à Québec pour une compétition. Nous allons vous accompagner en pensées tout au long de cette journée et Heinz restera dans nos coeur. Julie et Béatrice
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Jean Lepage posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
I, too, was a beneficiary of Heinz’s gift to uplift spirits and to imprint his cheerfulness on everyone. Our very first meeting in the mid 80’s left me with an immediate and lasting fondness for Heinz. In the past, Gatineau Park was my second home during winter. Although, I would see Heinz only a few times each year, I was disappointed when our paths did not cross. Whenever we did meet, I became re-energized. The snow is melting on the trails this week; Mother Nature is sympathizing with the loss of Heinz and inviting us contemplate the endowment that he has bequeathed to the skiing community. I offer my deepest sympathies to all who were close to Heinz. Jean Lepage (Orleans)
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Jesse Winter posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Hey Sven and everyone, This seems odd, that I'm sitting here writing memories of your dad. He's Heinz, and I was convinced he was invincible. His passing at Trials came as such a shock that a lot of people, including me, didn't get a chance to process it until now. He dedicated so much of his life to skiing, fought so hard to make it better for the rest of us so many times that it's hard to believe he's actually gone. Every skier in canada owes a debt to your dad, and I'm ashamed that amid all the joking about flooded hotel rooms and confusing interval explanations I never once told him thank you. Heinz was an amazing coach, and impacted the careers of every athlete he so much as spoke to. I know there are plenty of things about my career that he was directly responsible for. On top of that however, he was one of the few coaches who believed in me all along when a lot of others didn't. It was a quiet, unobtrusive belief, but it was pretty evident in the way he'd talk to me after races, especially bad ones. He didn't bluster, or heap praise where it wasn't due. He would simply talk things over, face to face and honestly. I really liked that about him. I'll never forget the look on his face when I flooded my hotel room in duntroon 5 years ago. Being 15 and having Heinz Niederhauser reem you out for being pretty foolish is, lets just say, a moving experience. I always enjoyed joking about that with him at races since. Not being able to do that anymore is something I'm going to miss a great deal. You're dad was and always will be synonymous with the Canadian ski world. He touched a lot of lives, and helped shape skiing into what it is today. He was an amazing coach, and an even better person, I think i speak for the rest of my team, and the ski world at large when I say he will be sorely missed.
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Hillary Barter posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Blanche, Jana and Sven; I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I have great memories of training and skiing at Lowney Lake, of hockey games and trail building and swimming and potlucks. Skiing with Heinz as a coach was both challenging and fun, and being a part of the club was a big part of my life for awhile. One memory that stands out for me was when Heinz was the first to help me when I fell and broke my leg during a ski race; I remember being reassured in knowing that he was there, in control of the situation. I will remember him as a great coach and a kind man. With all my condolences, Hillary
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Jacques Dumont posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Dear Blanche, Jana and Sven On behalf of Club Skinouk and all our coaches and athletes that knew and dealt with Heinz, I offer our deepest condolences. Be strong and carry his memory. Jacques Dumont, president
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John Halvorsen posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
To the Niederhauser family, please accept my since condolences Heinz was my coach, probably my first real coach, when I skied as part of the Ottawa Racers in the early 80's. I have clear and fond memories of his coaching insight and he has ever since remained in my mind as one of the people who taught me how to train. John Halvorsen 2x Olympic Finalist Track and Field
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Jacques Dumont posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Chère Blanche, Jana et Sven Je suis très attristé de votre perte. J'aurais aimé faire mes adieux à Heinz et vous présener mes sincères condoléances en personne, mais je ne pourrai être présent, devant moi-même accompagner des athlètes de Skinouk à Québec. Je garderai le souvenir de Heinz comme un homme jovial et cordial, toujours intéressé aux autres et heureux de nous rencontrer. Soyez courageux, la vie doit continuer malgré tout. Nos pensées sont avec vous. Jacques, Hélène et François Dumont
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Cathy Cottell posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
All my love to my dear friend, Blanche and Heinz's children, Sven & Jana. Our lives will never be the same without Heinz, but we are better people for having known him. Never have I seen a man of higher principles or greater caring. He gave selflessly to the skiing community and to all of us who were privileged to have experienced his passion for skiing. Each of us carries a piece of Heinz in our hearts so that he will never be far from our thoughts.
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Lorne & Diane Luhta posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
My condolences to the Neiderhauser family and friends. I knew Heinz as an athlete, SOD coach, National Team coach, and club coach. We spent many years together at different venues throughout the country. Even though we didn't always agree on everything I always respected his determination, his passion, his dedication, his enthusiasm and his knowledge. These great qualities resulted in excellent performances by those athletes with whom he was associated. I will miss conversations with him in the wax rooms, especially reminiscing about the "good old days." Lorne & Diane Luhta
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Jim, Janice, Laura and Christina Groulx posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Our deepest sympathy for your loss, I've been fortunate to have met Heinz at none other than skiing events, I worked in the race office at Lappe and my husband a coach, and my daughter a skier. He always had a smile, and was ever so friendly to those he hardly knew. After the races he would always approach us, and thank us for a job well done, he was such a sportsman and gentleman. He was a wonderful person, and the skiing community will miss him, he truly was an amazing person, and we feel honoured to have had an opportunity to meet him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
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Reipas Sports Club posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Our sincere condolences to Niederhauser family. The ski community will miss his spirit. Reipas sports Club (Tapiola)
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Julie Headrick-Bertrand posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
My sincere apologies in the passing of Heinz. He was a great person and a pleasure to have known. I have fond memories of the whole family in the year that I babysit. My prayers are with you and your family in this tragic time.
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Tom Cook posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Dear Blanche and family On behalf of the members of the Ontario Masters Cross Country Ski Association I would like to extend our most sincere condolences. Heinz was an outstanding competitor and will be missed by all fellow competitors. Heinz's wonderful attitude and joy of competition enhanced each race day. Tom Cook Ontario director of the Canadian Masters Assoc.
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David Zylberberg posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Heinz was a friendly and exuberent person who seemed to know everyone connected to the sport in Ontario and most of those in Canada. I remember him as a jovial person who seemed to care about the skiers he worked with and many he didn't. I also remember that he was still a centre of attention this past weekend while coaching in Duntroom with his laugh and connection to most individuals. I know he also contributed a lot to the many people he coached over the years and that he will be missed by many people. My deepest sympathies go out to the family over this loss.
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Team Hardwood posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Heinz was a leader in Nordic ski racing in Canada whose contribution to the sport will continue for many years as the coaches and athletes he has helped continue to grow. He was always a friend of Team Hardwood. We will miss his insight, wise advice and his wax room antics. God bless you Heinz. Team Hardwood
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George Torrance posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Heinz was a fierce competitor, a dedicated coach, and had a great sense of humour. Skiing in the area won't be the same without the chance of running into Heinz on the Gatineau trails or having him fly past you with an encouraging word in the Silver Spoon. Deepest sympathy to Blanche and the family. George Torrance
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Ken Phillips posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
“Hey, how’s it goin?” I will be listening for what to me was the signature question from Heinz for some time to come. His voice boomed out across the trails in the Gatineau and at race sites around the province and across the country for that matter. Usually “how’s it goin?” was followed with words of encouragement for younger skiers but just as often with a little sarcastic comment to aging master skiers or coaches. I recall as we were double poling along some trail hearing: “Are you going to use those poles or are you just going to lean on them?” Heinz knew what it meant to work hard, to train smart and well to achieve your goals. Heinz also knew that rest was a part of training. Well my friend your race is over. It’s time to rest – in peace. Blanche, Sven, Jana and all the Niederhauser family my sincere condolences. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope you find the strength that Heinz so embodied during this time of sorrow and celebration of his life – well lived, well loved and already deeply missed.
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Thomas Family - Graham, Diana, Alana and Andrew posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
We offer our condolences to the entire Niederhauser family - especially Sven with whom we shared Heinz at our races and training camps. Heinz was a great man in so many ways - father, husband, coach, master waxer, friend and bon vivant. We will all miss him and remember him fondly.
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Hermann and Christa Kerckhoff posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Dear Blanche, January 8th,2008 we have only met once at Ed and Cathy Cottells house for lunch after a very social ski to the fire-tower. I remember it so well, your delicious soup, the friends, the laughter. Christa and I want to tell You how painful it is to know your grief. Your unbelievable loss. So unexpected. So unfair. You have your family and so many good friends to support you during these tragic days. Be strong, better days are to come in your life. About 40 years ago today, Heinz and I stood in the starting gate at Horseshoe Valley Ski Resort near Barrie, Ontario, both of us rank beginners in cross-country skiing. He a baker, I a constuction worker,maybe a little fitter, I beat him. That was the only time I even got close to his racing achievements and his dedication to the sport.He scolded me often(in good humour) for that lack of committment, but how could anyone have matched his enthusiasm. Our two families became good friends, we met often in the basement store of Lembit Joselin, a club-like xc-ski importer of European equipment and a character in his own way. " Harrrd to believe " he would call out when Heinz and I entered his store. Heinz coached our daughter Claudia, organized ski clinics at our chalet at the Madawaska Kanu Center in Barry's Bay,Ontario (for years after we would find apple-stickers at the bottom of dinner plates he placed for games or awards), then he moved-on to the Huntsville area and our lives would take different routes. To me Heinz was always that strong 'oak-tree like' indestructible, full of life, person. I have the fondest memories of our good times together, in the Good Old Days. When Don Moxley informed me of his passing at Gossip Corner I was in shock, skied to a quiet place and said my personal farewell with a few tears and a skyward salute to a long-time friend. I will dedicate my upcoming 53 km Skate Gatineau Loppet to his memory and I will carry his picture close to my heart. Not hearing his swiss accented voice and his big grin alongside the ski trails is just very "harrrd to believe". Love Blanche, Sven and Jana ; and many, many happy days in your future life ahead, Christa and Hermann Kerckhoff
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Dorothy Lothian posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
As a newly-minted CCO Administrator in 2002/2003, phone calls from Heinz always sent me scurrying to find the answers to his queries. His questions were always good ones and I learnt to appreciate his forthrightness, his sense of humour and his passion for cross country skiing. His loss will be deeply felt by the cross country skiing community for some time to come. I wish to express my sincere condolences to Blanche and his family.
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Steve and Brenda Devlin & Family posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Sorry to hear about Heinz. He was a good man. He will be remembered always. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
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Steve Howard posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
To the Niederhauser family, my sincere condolences on the sad departure of Heinz. His legacy will remain within the Nordic ski community. All of my encounters with Heinz were on skis, and I and my family will always remember him as a gracious gentleman who was passionate about the sport he loved. Steve Howard President, Kanata Cross Country Ski Club
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Steven Paradine posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Dear Blanche, Sven, and Jana, My sincere condolences. I have great memories of Heinz back from the first time I met him at Lowney Lake at an Ontario camp 20+ years ago - where he caught two athletes, including me, sneaking an ice-cream break on a bicycle training ride. His enthusiasm for cross-country skiing and life in general showed through in everything he did. Heinz, we will continue to hear your echoes booming through the snow covered trails. Steven
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Ulf Kleppe posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Dear Blanche, Sven, and Jana. I send my deepest sympathy to you at this time. I have so many fond memories of Heinz over the years...from fear the first time I heard his booming voice to great respect and admiration as I got to know him as a person, a coach, and a skier. He will be missed terribly. Ulf
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Lynda Brown posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Dear Blanch, Sven and Jana. It is with profound saddness that I have learned of Heinz's death.He was everthing to the ski community as sking was to him. I can't recall a race, an event, Gats training or a ski gathering where he wouldn't be. His keen wit,his superb knowledge and generous nature to mentor and share have touched many a skier.We can't imagine the anquish of your personal loss but know this large ski family shares in your grief,will miss him, his huge smile and his huge heart. Lynda
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Allan Daigneault posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
My deepest sympathies to the family. I knew Heinz from Nordic racing and always enjoyed meeting up with him, he was so colourful! I used to see him at races from Keski to Norams & nationals. He will be sorrily missed. He will also always be remembered amongst Nordic skiers!
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John Cowan posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Dear Blanch, Sven,Janna, Lars, Tom and Glen On behalf of the Southern Ontario Division I want to express our deepest sympathies to your family with the passing away of your husband and father. Heinz was an inspiration to the skiing community and he became the voice of advocacy in promoting the sport he loved. He had tremendous vision and passion for cross country skiing. His leadership helped many young and old athletes understand their potential and he always brought the best traits out of people. As a result of Heinz’s passion for skiing, Southern Ontario Division athletes have benefited from his leadership with many athletes reaching National and International level of competition. On a personal note, I enjoyed the coaching discussions we had after the 2 hour Ontario Cup meetings and learning from the guru of coaching. Heinz was always good at relieving tension at serious coaches meetings by bringing his great sense of humour and orchestrating a good laugh had by all. Heinz will be remembered as the patriarch of cross country skiing and the skiing community can be thankful for his passion. We have many great memories. Thank you. Sincerely, John Cowan Chair Southern Ontario Division Huntsville, ON
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Big Thunder Nordic Ski Club posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
To the family and friends of Heinz, we share your sorrow and extend our heartfelt condolences. Heinz was a memorable and valuable part of the cross country skiing community and we were blessed to have him championing our sport for so many years. He will be missed.
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Nathan, Hannah, Lorraine & Harris Kirby posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Blanche, Lars , Tom, Glen, Sven and Jana, we were saddened to hear of the passing of Heinz and we share with you in your grief. Heinz was generous with his energy and time in his efforts to coach and mentor young athletes and coaches. Our thanks go out to him and to you for sharing him with us all. We will remember him for his sense of humour, his sense of purpose and for being a great person.
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Marty Hall posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
On a personal note--the parc for me will never be the same--it was my time to be with and see Heinz--the king and his court---so many skiers,coaches and athletes were mentored, coached and touched by Heinz in so many good ways---not only in sport but in life--could there be any more vibrant encounter each and everytime you met up with him at one of the cabins, trails or parcways---he always made your day better---I'll miss all those meetings, conversations, races, and exchanges we had and I can't believe that you won't be with us when ever a group of coaches or skiers gets together without us referencing some memory or comment you would have made. Heinz, I loved you and my heartfelt feeling to Blanch, Sven and Jana. Your friend, Marty
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steve newman posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
I'm sorry to hear of Heinz's departure. I always enjoyed talking to him on the ski trails when I'd run into him in the Gatineaus ... after first meeting him and interviewing him in his capacity as the national junior coach years ago, for the national Coaching Review magazine. His spirit and friendliness could always be counted on, not to mention how he 'kicked my butt' and many others in the classical-technique 15-km race in Deep River a few years ago when I think he was in his mid 60s and I a good deal younger. A good guy, a very good guy. Again, I'm sorry to hear of your loss. He's loss to skiing and to humankind in general.
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Dennis Paradine posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
I wish to offer my most profound condolendences to the Neiderhauser family. Since my earliest days of racing 25 years ago, through Junior racing, University and then coaching, Heinz was there at most if not all of the races - cheering people on, helping other coaches and most of all helping to build skiing. May Heinz's spirit live on - skiing on the trails, mediating coach's meetings and offering friendly words. When back on the trails, I'll remember him. Dennis Paradine
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Ritva Riihiaho posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Dear Niederhauser Family. Sharing in your sorrow during this difficult time. Ritva Riihiaho
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Renée Thibeault posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
C'est avec grande tristesse que j'apprends la mort de Heinz, que j'ai côtoyé dans les dernières années, dans le cadre des événements de ski de fond organisés dans la région de Québec - Coupes NorAm et Championnats Canadiens. Heinz a été de tous ces événements. Son énergie et son franc-parler ont mis de la vie dans nos réunions d'entraîneurs et il avait toujours un bon mot et une bise pour moi. Il me manquera beaucoup. Sinceres condolences to all members of the family. Renée Thibeault, officielle de course de la région de Québec.
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Stephan Latour, Waterloo Region Nordic posted a condolence
Monday, January 7, 2008
Dear Niederhauser Family: It is sometimes said, that "the purpose of life is finding a gift, the mission of life is developing the gift, and the legacy of life, is passing on the gift." I have only seen Heinz in short intervals around Ontario's cross-country racing events, but I firmly believe that Heinz has embodied the quotation. I, along with all, will miss him and wish to extend my deepest sympathies to you. Stephan Latour
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Margaret Waechter (Holden) posted a condolence
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Dear Blanch, Sven, and Jana and the whole Neiderhauser family, I was very sorry to hear about your family's loss this morning. Heinz was an unforgetable person and inspiring coach. He ALWAYS brought the best out on me on the race course, taught me about hard work and perserverance, and cared about us as people, not just athletes. Some of the best experiences of my life were spent travelling to races and training in the company of Heinz. It was wonderful to see Heinz again over the years at several world masters events. I shall miss his enthusiasm for life. The Spoon will never be the same again I am sure. A big hug to all of you, Love Margaret Waechter (Holden) Winthrop, WA
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Jennifer Tomlinson posted a condolence
Sunday, January 6, 2008
I am very sorry to hear about Heinz' passing. He contributed a lot to skiing over the years, both with his presence and his skills as a coach, he knew how to get the most from his athletes. He will be missed.
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Dave Rees posted a condolence
Thursday, November 30, 0002
I have valued Heinz as a friend and colleague in skiing since the early 70's. we had many adventures together and I will always cherish the memory of his enthusiasm and dedication to the sport that he so loved - cross country skiing. He touched so many across the nation in his mission to make us all better skiers and to push ahead the level of competition in Canada from the club to the international levels. He left us doing the sport he loved and he will be sorely missed by us all in the ski world. Our most profound sympathies go out to you Blanch, Sven and Jana and as well to Lars, Tom and Glen for the loss of a fine husband and loving father.
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Jack Yard posted a condolence
Thursday, November 30, 0002
Dear Blanche, Sven, Jana, Lars, Tom and Glen. Our deepest sympathies at this very difficult time. You are surrounded by a multitude of people who are, without exception, better off in their lives for having been touched by Heinz during his 72 years celebrating life. My personal contact with Heinz is rather like a set of bookends. I first met him in Muskoka during the early 70's when he was completing his Ski Instructors course at our family ski centre, Hollyburn. His warmth and enthusiasm was contagious and there seemed nary a moment that he was not on the move, driven to the next task, always with a smile and a joke, (when I could understand what he said through his accent). Fast forward 30 some years to an O'Cup race in Timmins. My daughters had just begun to take an interest in skiing and one of the first out of town people I met at that race was Heinz. I re-introduced myself and he immediately began to regal me with stories of his initial triumphs and misadventures while skiing with my father some 30 years prior. From that moment onward, when ever or where ever I met Heinz, his genuine smile, his hasty greeting and a brief word of encouragement for my girls always made me feel as if I was having a better day than I was having moments before running into him. Encouragement and constructive criticism were his core beliefs in coaching and the entire skiing community is infinitely better for having had Heinz Niederhauser ski our trails during his lifetime. If St. Peter has cross country skis, I'm sure Heinz will wax them. Our deepest sympathies, Jack and Cathy Yard Brianna and Bridget Yard
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Reg & Linda Landry posted a condolence
Thursday, November 30, 0002
To Blanche, Jana, Sven, Lars, Tom, Glen and the Niederhauser Family, Our heart felt condolences for the loss of someone so special in your lives. He was a father figure for so many and touched the lives of many families. In the days to come, we hope that you will be able to feel our love for a truly remarkable man. As patron of the sport, his work and legacy will live on for generations. It is with great sadness to say farewell He will be with you in spirit. Lovingly, Reg & Linda Landry and Family
