HERBERT LOOVERE

LOOVERE
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mr. Herbert Loovere, age 100 years. He passed away peacefully at his home on December 6, 2024 with his family by his side.

Herbert was born in Estonia on January 1, 1924. He grew up on a beautiful farm near Tartu, Estonia with his parents Johannes and Helmi Loovere. He was forced to leave Estonia due to the Soviet occupation during WW II. This was a particularly harrowing time of his life, during which he was trapped within the fighting of Courland Pocket before making his way over on a besieged Red Cross boat to Western Europe and ending up in a displaced persons camp. He was then hired by the American Army as a mechanic. He subsequently worked in the Holland coal mines before joining a shipping company out of London, England. Eventually, he made his way to Canada.

Herbert set down roots in Thunder Bay, where he made many friends. He worked in the logging camps, as a land surveyor and then for Canada Car before attending navigational school and becoming a Captain. During this time, he met his wife Catherine (they were planning to celebrate their 55th wedding anniversary this month). Herbert was a Captain for Misener Shipping for 27 years and an active member of the Shipmasters Association.

After retiring in 1989, he spent much of his time with family, traveling, managing his business interests in Estonia and Canada, keeping up with current events, as well as taking care of his home and enjoying his camp on Lake Superior. Estonia remained near and dear to his heart and he was a lifelong member of the Thunder Bay Estonian Society, serving as President and regularly attending their functions where he was known to be a smooth dancer.

Herbert was an inspiration to his family and those that knew him. He was an incredibly hard worker, with firm principles and an infectious optimism. He valued education and family. He supported those around him through difficult times and never waivered in his dedication and love for family. Herbert was a leader who could accomplish anything he put his mind to. He had a phenomenal memory and presence of mind, which he was blessed with even through his final days. Herbert was a man of integrity.

Herbert will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his wife Catherine (Smith) Loovere and his two children, John Loovere and Dr. Linda Loovere, as well as their spouses Corinne and Shawn. He has 5 adoring grandchildren: Erik, David, Ellie, Bronwyn and Ellison. He will also be fondly remembered by his cousin Malle Prükk in Estonia, and her children Aivo, Tarvo and Raido. A funeral service will take place at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church, 10 Farrand Street on Friday, December 13 at 1:30 pm presided by Pastor Matthew Diegel. Interment to follow in Riverside Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Charity of Your Choice.

Condolences may be offered at www.harbourviewfuneral.ca