Obituary of John Funk

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With sadness for us but relief for him, we announce the death of John Funk in his 99^th year. On November 20, 2021, with family at his side, he shook off his earthly body and went to sing in glory.

Predeceased by his beloved wife Ella, his daughter-in-law Janice, and his infant daughter Margaret Anne. He is survived by his children: Tim (Nancy), Melissa (Brian) Racho, Don, Karen (Al) Dobson, Elinor (Ralph) Cressman, Mary (Harry) Fehderau, Laura (Peter) Burkard and Steve (Tammy). Also survived by his precious grandchildren and great grandchildren. Predeceased by a brother, Henry and a sister, Betty. He is survived by two brothers (Frank and Neil) and four sisters (Anne, Tina, Margaret, and Mary) as well as many nieces and nephews.

Born in Yekaterinoslav, Ukraine on March 25, 1923, John immigrated to Canada as a child with his parents (with $25 in their pockets), settling first in Saskatchewan and then Manitoba. While working in Kitchener as a young man, he caught the eye of Ella Riediger whom he married on May 13, 1950. They lived in Manitoba for 14 years where eight children were born before moving back to Ontario. John worked hard to provide for his large family by driving dump truck and snow plow for the Region of Waterloo until his retirement. In his retirement years he served with Ella at Camp Crossroads and in his church, as well as travelling many places together. John’s passion was the outdoors – he walked daily until quite recently, and getting outside never failed to raise his spirits until the very end of his life. Some of the last words he spoke were of the snow falling outside his window. Music also played a large role in his life – his bass voice was often in demand in various quartets and choirs through the years, right into his eighties. He could often be heard whistling or singing (usually hymns) as he went about his day. He was anxious to leave this world and be reunited with Ella in heaven, so we will rejoice with him through our tears.

Visitation will be held at the Erb and Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo,  on Thursday November 25, 2021, from 6:00-9:00pm. Those wishing to attend the visitation must register (RSVP) by contacting the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com. A private family service will be held at the funeral home on Friday November 26, 2021, at 11:00am. The service will be livestreamed, the link is available at the top of John’s obituary page at www.erbgood.com.

Condolences for the family and memorial donations to the MB Mission Board or the Heart and Stroke Foundation may be arranged by contacting the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com.