Obituary of Ralph Emil Freiburger

Ralph passed away peacefully on Monday, August 19, 2019, the day after celebrating his 92^nd birthday with family.

Ralph was born on his family farm in Bamberg, Ontario, the seventh of fourteen children to the late Herbert and Alfreida (nee Straus) Freiburger.  He was the beloved husband of the late Dorothy (nee O’Farrell) who predeceased him in 2001. 

Loving father of Ron (Fran), Paul (Debbie Cipp), Jane Rocher (Rick), Brian (Lily), and Maureen Turco (Sal). Cherished grandfather of Ryan (Joanna), Sarah (Graham), Emily (Sean), Larissa (Adam), Matthew (Megan), Josh, Caitlin, Karly (Matt), Kirstie, Paul and Annie and proud great-grandfather of Emma and twins, Clayton and Robert.  Ralph is survived by his brother Bert Freiburger, sister Jean Robertson, O’Farrell relatives, and many nieces and nephews.

Ralph and Dorothy were among the founding members of St. Michael’s RC Parish in Waterloo.  Ralph was a hard-working carpenter and very proud to have raised his family in the home he built.  He was an avid gardener, a competitive card player, an energetic dancer, and a patient fisherman who also enjoyed relaxing in his rocking chair on the front porch.  

The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Father Frank Freitas of St. Michael’s Parish, his Batavia Place neighbourhood friends and the staff of the Elliott Retirement Community in Guelph where Ralph lived for the past eight months.  Ralph’s strong faith and supportive family helped him through his medical challenges over the past year. 

The Freiburger family will receive relatives and friends at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Thursday, August 22, 2019 from 2-4 and 7-9 p.m.  A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Michael’s RC Church, 80 University Ave. W., Waterloo on Friday, August 23, 2019 at 10 a.m.  Interment at Parkview Cemetery, Waterloo will be followed by a reception in the Parish Hall.

Condolences for the family and memorial donations to St. Michael’s RC Church or a charity of your choice may be arranged by contacting the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.