Ernst J. Glashutter
July 4, 1936 – March 30, 2025
It is with much sadness that we announce the passing of Ernst Glashutter, who died peacefully, in Victoria, British Columbia. Born in Austria in 1936, Ernst’s life was a testament to resilience, craftsmanship, and love for family.
In 1953, he found the love of his life as their eyes met across the dance floor. In 1956, Ernst boldly left for Canada, intending to make his fortune there, before returning to Austria and his love. Plans change. In 1957, Helene left for Vancouver, Canada, where they were married the day after her arrival. Together they built a life filled with adventure and unwavering devotion to each other. Their journey led them from Linz to Vancouver, Whitehorse, and finally Victoria, creating a lifetime of memories along the way.
Ernst was a man of many trades and talents. His career path spanned tailoring, logging, laboring, heavy machinery operation, and eventually owning and operating his own dump truck business. A self-taught mechanic, welder and builder, he was a true craftsman—whether working in cloth, metal, concrete or wood—he took pride in every task, approaching each with skill, care, and an eye for detail. The family home of 50 years, which he and Helene built, was his pride. A master tailor as taught by his father, he continued the tradition of paternal mentorship, passing his new skills, knowledge and passion on to his son, who, in turn, has passed them on to his son.
A man of curiosity, Ernst dabbled with drawing and golf, and was always grabbing a pencil and paper (often a napkin) to make a quick sketch of an idea, or building inventions, to make the world a more efficient place. He loved to drive and dining. Many, many kilometres on the RV, and, many schnitzel or pepper steak meals enjoyed with a beer or red wine.
Ernst will be remembered for his quick wit, ingenuity, hard work, and the stories he loved to tell. His hands built, mended, and created, and his heart gave generously.
His family was his purpose and joy. He was predeceased by his sisters, Hildegard and Elfriede, and son, Robert, and is survived by his dear wife and constant companion, Helene; daughters, Elizabeth (Don) and Marie (Darren), daughter-in-law, Jayne; grandchildren, Tyler (Brianna), Sally, and Lina; great-grandchild, Taylem; and nephew, Helmut.
The family fondly remembers enjoying annual vacations when we were all young. Often it was a road trip to explore somewhere in British Columbia to try down-hill or cross-country skiing, kayaking, lake life, or once to Disneyland, and in 1975 a trip to Austria, where we visited family and did more road trips through upper Austria and Italy. The adventures continued in adulthood, and included the growing family, with trips to a dude ranch and a European river cruise. Thank you dad, for showing us that the world is a whole lot bigger place than home. For that, and for so many other things. We love you.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the amazing staff at Royal Jubilee Hospital for their compassionate care and support in his final days.
A private family remembrance will be held at a later date. The family invites you to honor Ernst’s memory by sharing a story below, raising a glass, or simply taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of fine work and a life well lived. Prost!
Rest in peace, Ernst/Ernie/Dad/Gramps/Opa. You are deeply missed and will forever be remembered.