RIEDEL, Erhard Rudolf RIEDEL

Passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family, on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at his home in the Stonecroft Community, New Hamburg, Ontario, at the age of 88.

He was the beloved husband and best friend of Elisabeth (“Lissi”) for 59 years. A devoted father to Michele (Uwe) and Diana (Ali), and a proud and loving Opa to Vanessa, Michael (Alwynne), Sergio, and Emily. Erhard will also be deeply missed by extended family in Germany, including Jutta (Wolfgang), Annemarie (Wolfgang), and their families.

Born in Poland in 1937, Erhard endured the hardships of World War II, during which his two older brothers, Rainhold and Heinz, lost their lives. After the war, his family was expelled to East Germany. As a young man seeking freedom and adventure, Erhard bravely escaped East Germany through Berlin and immigrated to Canada to explore new opportunities.

A skilled tool and die maker, his work eventually brought him to Niagara Falls—where he met his beloved Lissi, the love of his life. Together, they built a beautiful life and home in Niagara Falls before retiring to Stonecroft, creating more friendships and lasting memories.

Erhard was a hardworking, family-oriented man with an adventurous spirit and a deep appreciation for nature. He loved soccer, gardening, woodworking, travelling, and dancing with Lissi and their friends at Club Heidelberg in St. Catharines. He could build or fix almost anything and did everything for the love of his family. As he aged and his limited mobility slowed him down, Erhard continued to read, share stories of his life and travels, and tell a “Sunday Dad joke”.

We will deeply miss this wonderful man. We will carry with us his courage, his strength, and above all, his love. As he always reminded us: “It will be alright. Just keep moving forward.”

As per Erhard’s wishes, cremation has taken place, and a private family service will be held. In Erhard’s memory, donations may be made to the London Health Sciences Hospital by contacting the funeral home at 519-662-1661. Personal condolences can be shared at Mark Jutzi Funeral Home, New Hamburg, Ontario. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Mark Jutzi Funeral Home.