Obituary of Frederick Charles Zarnke

To RSVP for visitation, please CLICK HERE

To view the livestream of the service, please CLICK HERE

Fred went to sing in the Gods Heavenly Chorus on Saturday, December 11, 2021 at the Hospice of Waterloo Region. He was surrounded by family love. He leaves behind his loving wife of 73 years, Pearl.  Also mourning his loss are his children Linda (Brian), David (Anne) and Betty (Bill).  He will be missed by his grandchildren Jason (Jennifer), Tiffany (Richard), Amberley (Mark), McKenzie and Benjamin. His legacy also includes 5 great-grandchildren Landon, Tyler, Wyatt, Emma and Kaylee.

He was predeceased by his son Gary (Dec. 10, 1973), his parents Clara and Charles Zarnke, his sister Dorothy (2015) and brother Oscar (2019).

Fred was a true gentleman. His family was most important to him. He was born and grew up on the family farm (now part of the University of Waterloo). Without the advantage of higher education, Fred still acquired numerous skills; drafting, welding, electrical, plumbing, construction, wood working, hydraulics, and auto mechanic. His enjoyment of music included singing and playing both piano and organ.   His farming background gave him a love of gardening.

The family appreciates the compassionate care Fred received from staff and volunteers at the Hospice.

To attend the visitation for Fred, personal face coverings are required and relatives and friends must register (RSVP) at www.erbgood.com or by calling the funeral home at 519-745-8445. Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Thursday, December 16, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 pm.  A private family service will be held in the chapel of the funeral home on Thursday, December 16, 2021 at 1:00 p.m., with Rev. Ed Bastian officiating. Family and friends are welcome to view the livestream of the funeral service by visiting Fred’s obituary page (www.erbgood.com). Cremation will have taken place. 

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Hospice of Waterloo Region as an expression of sympathy by contacting the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445