“Heroes never die. They live on in the hearts and minds of those who would follow in their footsteps.” — Emily Potter
With sad and heavy hearts we share the passing of our family hero, Rudi, after a brief illness and surrounded by family in his home according to his wishes. Survived by his children Susanne (Rudy), Christine (Frank), John (Tamara) and grandson Ben (Devon) brother in law Peter Meroth (Edi) in Berlin as well as nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his beloved wife Brigitte (2025).
Rudolf Mikler lived a life of adventure and enjoyed it to the fullest. From humble beginnings in eastern Germany, resettling to West Germany after WWII where he met the love of his life at dancing classes. Immigrating to Canada in 1957 he worked in Elliott Lake in the uranium mines for two years before returning to Germany to marry. In 1959 Rudi and Brigitte moved to Stratford where he had accepted a position at FAG Bearings (where he spent his entire career) with his brother, Heinz.
Rudi engaged in local sports and activities; always with a smile and twinkling blue eyes. Eventually, after many fund raising efforts, along with his friends, started a German Canadian Club where community members participated in card nights, table tennis, hosted a choir and social events such as dances.
Rudi and Brigitte started their family in 1964 and raised three children on Britannia St in Stratford.
Rudi had a zest for life and people; he was always lending a helping hand and could be counted on as a loyal friend. In his retirement years, he loved the outdoors and nature spending much time doing the things he took pleasure in such as travelling to the lake, walking dogs, fixing and building things, riding the tractor and playing cards.
But Rudi’s greatest source of pride was his family and he was the quintessential patriarch. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his kids.
We are honoured and privileged to call him Dad. He was our hero.
Major shout out to the wonderful care team who showered both Brigitte and Rudi with love and affection: Lindsay, Kelly, Lori, Lydia and Yashi.
Per his wishes, Rudi will be cremated and a private family celebration has taken place.
