July 4, 1951 – April 5, 2025

 

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Walter Isidor von Rotz on April 5, 2025, at the age of 73. Walter passed away peacefully at the Canmore Hospital after a short but valiant battle with cancer, surrounded by the love of his family.

Walter was born on July 4, 1951, in Kerns, Obwalden, Switzerland, and grew up there with his six siblings. From an early age, Walter developed a passion for his craft, completing his butcher apprenticeship in Switzerland and going on to become a Master Butcher and Sausage Maker.

In 1970, at the age of 19, he ventured to South Africa for what was meant to be a one-year experience working as a butcher. That spirit of adventure would eventually take him to Canada in 1973, where he worked in Prince George and Stony Plain before settling in Banff, Alberta, in December 1974. It was there, while working at the Paris Restaurant, that he met the love of his life, Leonie Kaufmann, and their amazing story began.

Walter and Leonie were married in May 1976 in Leonie’s hometown of Grindelwald, Switzerland. They returned to Banff in July of that year and, in 1978, moved to Canmore to start what would become their lifelong passion and family legacy — opening Alpine Meats, a small deli in downtown Canmore. Two years later, they built a production facility in Elk Run Industrial Park and renamed the business Valbella Gourmet Foods. Through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to quality, Valbella grew into one of Alberta’s most recognized and respected meat processors.

Walter was more than a business owner — he was a community builder, a devoted husband, a loving father, and a doting grandfather. Walter’s greatest pride was his family. He and Leonie celebrated 49 years of marriage together. He is survived by his beloved wife Leonie, their children Jeffrey (Heather) and Chantal (Brandon), and four adored grandchildren: Maia, Ruby, Benji, and Nova.

Walter will be remembered for his warm heart, tireless work ethic, sense of humor, and his deep love for his family, community, and heritage. He was a true pioneer in the Bow Valley, a mentor to many, and a friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.