George Albert Hunsberger
1943 - 2023
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Giulio Donelli posted a condolence
Monday, March 6, 2023
Hello Steph,
this is Giulio Donelli from Italy. I received your letter a few days ago and I am very sorry to hear that George is no longer with you.
I still remember some of his words when I spent with Matt and you that summer many years ago... I was 16 and once I think you took us to George's school to do different sports activities: I played baseball and I hit the ball right the first time, luckily I guess, but George told me <<You are an easy learner>>. Here I think that was his style: to encourage to make young people grow! And still today, that I too am a teacher, I carry those words with me and when needed I repeat them to my students.
I pray for him and for you. Please give my condolences to Matt, Jeff and Gill as well.
Giulio Donelli
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Stephen Case posted a condolence
Saturday, February 25, 2023
Hello Steph,
This is Steve Case sending condolences to you and all your family. John McLennan shared George's obituary a couple of days ago and Sabina and I were shocked with the sad news. We have not connected with each other for years but I will not forget fine person George always was to me. Football was our connection and we stood shoulder to shoulder on the offensive line protecting our valued QB. I respected his kind nature, sense of humour, leadership by example and strength of character. Reading his obituary reassures me he passed those qualities on to his children, grandchildren and students and fellow staff.
Sabina and I are sorry for your loss and for what your children and grandchildren have lost.
We pray for you to bring forward the emotional strength that you have always had.
Steve and Sabina
Calgary
stephengcase@gmail.com
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Bob & Flory Wilkins posted a condolence
Thursday, February 9, 2023
George and I go back a long way and most people are not fully aware of what we shared. In ones lifetime one may only have a couple of friendships that last a lifetime. The last time we spoke was for about 45 minutes on Nov 14 2022. We could go days, weeks, months before talking and when we did it was like we just left off from the last time.
We figured out that we got together as friends in late 1957 early 1958. We played hockey, baseball, threw the football, drank some beer, spent time at my dads cottage at Sable Beach. I knew his dad and mom, and brothers Bruce and David and got to know Steph before they were married in 1966. In 1965 I was transferred to Toronto with the TD Bank, then to Calgary in 1967. Over the years we stayed in touch through our phone calls, emails and trips east.
George was there to lean on when my first wife passed away in 1988. I married Flory in 1993 and over the following years we spent time with George & Steph in Waterloo and at their cottage. They helped us with the transitions of care facilities and then at the time of the passing of my Aunt Beulah who also had a great love and fondness for George & Steph. In 2019 they came west to Innisfail to visit us and at that time we did the White Hat Ceremony for them at YYC Calgary. They got to visit our daughter Terri, husband Brad and grandsons at their farm/ranch and other sites in Alberta. Later that year granddaughter Brit was playing baseball in Calgary and we met up again with George.
Unfortunately we missed the sad news of George's passing at that time, due to the confusion regarding our phones and only just found out this week.
George and his family will always be special in ours hearts, here in the west. He was a one of a kind individual that touched hundreds of lives and I am honored that he & I had a 65+ year friendship.
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Adam Koenig posted a condolence
Tuesday, February 7, 2023
I had the privilege of being coached by Mr. Hunsberger in my grade 9 and 10 years at GRCI. He coached our basketball team with Jeff, and I remember always feeling how much Mr. Hunsberger cared for his players. I remember one time during a game the calls were very lopsided against us, and Mr. Hunsberger wouldn’t stand for the injustice being imposed on his players… so mid-game he said “okay, everyone up and to the locker room.” We all left the court for a mid-game protest. I don’t remember if that ended up helping us with the referees or if we won the game but what I do remember is feeling advocated for and cared for. I saw it as a leader who wanted to ensure the young men he was leading were being treated fairly.
To the Hunsberger family I am sorry for your loss and to Jeff thank you for having your dad come and coach so I could experience his guidance, wisdom, and compassion. I just learned of his death today but wish I could have shared in his celebration of life.
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John and Joan Rigby pledged to donate to SLEEPING CHILDREN AROUND WORLD
Wednesday, February 1, 2023
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Kerri Boehmer posted a condolence
Sunday, January 22, 2023
There are no words to describe George and his impact on me and so many others, so I am going to steal some lyrics from one of my favourite songs to honour one of my favourite people.
"I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn and we are led to those who help us most to grow if we let them and we help them in return. Well, I don't know if I believe that's true, but I know I'm who I am today because I knew you. Let me say before we part, so much of me is made from what I learned from you - you'll be with me like a handprint on my heart!"
I feel so blessed to have been able to call George my friend for 40 years. Gone, but never forgotten!
YOU mattered, George!
With love and gratitude, Kerri
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Wayne Gingrich posted a condolence
Sunday, January 22, 2023
Jeff, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. He was an amazing man and always had great one liners at the ready when we were growing up. My sincere condolences to your Mom, Matt, Jill and families.
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Christina posted a condolence
Thursday, January 19, 2023
I'm sorry to hear of your loss. Mr. Huntsberger was a gentle man who cared for his students. His help guided me through difficult times in high school and I will forever be grateful.
Christina (Christi) Pereira (Hunt)
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Heather Beckley posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 18, 2023
Dear Jill,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I remember him to be such a lovely and friendly gentleman, and so supportive of you and your pursuits. My heart goes out to you and to your entire family. I hope your memories of your father will provide you with peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Heather
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Carl Thiel posted a condolence
Tuesday, January 17, 2023
As a fellow cheerleader of Georges grandchildren at sporting and other events, we will miss George's constant grin and friendly conversations. George was an inspiration to his grandchildren and we will miss but remember George.
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David Good posted a condolence
Monday, January 16, 2023
I knew George when we were both students at WCI (Waterloo Collegiate Institute) back in the 1960s. Who could forget his mischievous smile and his fun-loving nature. What a kind, engaging, and considerate soul.
George, we will miss you.
My sincere sympathies to Steph and the Hunsberger family.
David Good
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Mark Ewald posted a condolence
Monday, January 16, 2023
My wife, Sandy, and I got to know George while vacationing in Southampton.
George was such a nice man. He was calm, quick to smile and full of wisdom.
Our condolences go out to Stephanie and the family.
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Rob D. EVANS posted a condolence
Monday, January 16, 2023
To Stephanie and family, i must express my feeling of sadness, and our sympathies to you at this time.
George and his parents and siblings lived across the street from my family in my youth, and after losing Bruce too soon, it is another loss to lose another member of such a fine family.
I lost touch with George over time, but always knew that he was 'out there' and doing good. Recently, I was thrilled when George reached out to me after an article published in the Waterloo Regional Record, and we exchanged a few most pleasant comments and mentioned a get-together after Covid. It is my regret that this didn't occur.
i have fond memories of George as the big chap in our little neighbourhood, and an avid sports person. He and my brother planted the nickname "Sam' on each other, and i don't know if this stuck on the Hunsberger side, but it did in our household.
Please accept our sincere condolences. Our world is better for George's time with us, and it shrinks with his passing.
Regards,
Rob D. and Sheryl A. Evans
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Elaine Pernfuss pledged to donate to ST MARYS GENERAL HOSPITAL FOUNDATION KITCHENERWATERLOO
Monday, January 16, 2023
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Peter Craigman posted a condolence
Monday, January 16, 2023
To the whole Hunsberger family,
I am so sorry to hear about the passing of George. I attended Bluevale from day one, and I was so very privileged to have him as a coach, teacher and as student council activity director. He truly inspired me in so many ways while in high school. When I look back at the people who had positive influence in my life, George’s name immediately come to mind.
Peter Craigman
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RONALD SUCH posted a condolence
Monday, January 16, 2023
Meeting George was one of the biggest gifts life has thrown my way and I'll be forever grateful for the times we had together. Simply put, he taught me to be a better man. I'll miss his smile, his laugh, his wisdom and his compassion. My sincere condolences to the entire Hunsberger family.
You've crossed the Rainbow Bridge George but you know how much I love you and how much I'll miss you. Jill and Jeff have both asked me to "pass it on".....I'll do my best but there will never be another George~
Ron Such
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Ralph Kermer posted a condolence
Sunday, January 15, 2023
To George's family, I would like to say thank you. Thank you for sharing him with me and those Bluevale students just like me that needed a coach/mentor/role model. George was all that and I know for him to do that for us it took time away from you. Over the years since my graduation and raising my own family, I have tried to emulate George with my volunteer coaching, I think it would make him proud. Thank you and rest in peace coach.
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Nirvan posted a condolence
Sunday, January 15, 2023
I never knew George, but I am a friend of his grandson Mason. My basketball team runs an inbound play called "George". I always wondered why it was called George. Now I know, it was named after George Hunsberger who was a friend of my basketball coach. My sincerest condolences to Mason and all of your family. -Nirvan Malloy
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Chris Chapman posted a condolence
Sunday, January 15, 2023
Dear Hunsberger Family,
I am so very sad to hear of the passing of George (Mr. Hunsberger). I had the great fortune to have Mr. H as my guidance councilor at Bluevale. It was a tough time for me. Mr. H, no matter what kind of trouble I found myself in, always treated me with compassion and wisdom. He was empathetic when I needed it and held me to account when I needed that. Although our interactions were brief I have often thought about his approach with me those many years ago. He has impacted me and my understanding of what a supportive educator means and how interacions, no matter how brief, can resinate for many years.
With Condolences and Gratitude.
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Glenna Snider posted a condolence
Sunday, January 15, 2023
Between your `HELLO` and your GOODBYE` there were HEAPS of love and laughter.....May the the thoughts of these, guide you through your tomorrows.
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John Regina Kapsa posted a condolence
Saturday, January 14, 2023
Dear Steph, Jeff, Ann, Matt, Jerry, Jill, Kevin & Grandchildren
We are very sad to realize and know that our dear friend, George has passed. It is very difficult to believe and accept that this happened. He will be truly missed by many and will be remembered for his kindness, genuine friendship, and his inclusivity.
George was special. A contribution to the Sick Kids Foundation has been sent in his honour!
John and Regina Kapsa & Family
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Neil Movold posted a condolence
Saturday, January 14, 2023
My deepest and heartfelt condolences to you, Stephanie, and the Hunsberger clan. Hearing about George's passing has hit me hard, and I have been at a loss for words to share with you and others about how I feel about George. Aside from my parents, George was the most influential person in my life. To this day, I still carry around a note that George wrote to me in August 1984. Over the years, when I have found myself faltering, a read of that note set me back on track every time. That year, 1984, George changed my life forever, and I am and will be eternally grateful until the day I die. One of the greatest individuals in our lifetime. George will be missed by so many, but leaves an endless amount of wonderful memories to cherish and remember him by.
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Lucy Halladay posted a symbolic gesture
Saturday, January 14, 2023
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Our deepest and sincere condolences to you Stephanie and Family. George was a very nice and pleasant man when we first meet him when we visited my brother Jerry when he moved to Kitchener. He opened up his home and welcomed us with great pride. You both also opened your hearts and welcomed my brother Jerry, and made him feel at home. He will be greatly missed when we come down to vist. I know my Mother Gladys enjoyed her vist the last time she was down. Having a great and interesting conversations. May you fly high with the angels and look down upon your loved ones.
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Debbie Linkert posted a condolence
Saturday, January 14, 2023
We wish to offer our deepest sympathies for the loss of your husband and father. Gary and I have very fond memories of George as a teacher, a great football coach and having lovely talks with him up at the cottage. We will miss him. Debra & Gary Linkert
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Don W. Snyder posted a condolence
Saturday, January 14, 2023
Dear Stephanie & family, my warmest condolences to you on the loss of your husband/father/grandfather. May warm memories be with you through this time of great sorrow. Love, Don
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Charlotte Paradis pledged to donate to KIDSABILITY CENTRE CHILD DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
Saturday, January 14, 2023
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Lois and Bill Hogg donated to KIDSABILITY CENTRE CHILD DEVELOPMENT FOUNDATION
Saturday, January 14, 2023
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Jean and Bill Shannon posted a condolence
Friday, January 13, 2023
Dear Steph, Matt and family,
Our sincere condolences to your whole family. You and George were all so kind and giving to our Stephanie. We have fond memories of your family. May George rest In peace in heaven. Sincerely, Bill and Jean Shannon
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Sharon and Paul Good posted a condolence
Friday, January 13, 2023
Sincere sympathy on George's passing. We have fond memories over the years.
Paul and Sharon Good
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Carl & Beverley Thiel pledged to donate to CHILD WITNESS CENTRE WATERLOO REGION
Friday, January 13, 2023
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Jim Bunsch posted a condolence
Friday, January 13, 2023
Dear Stephanie & Family
I remember George very well from our days at KCI. A good guy! I hope I meet him again one day. I offer you & your Family my sincere condolences.
Jim Bunsch (Central America)
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Bill Dunn posted a condolence
Friday, January 13, 2023
My condolences to the whole family on the passing of George..he met us a few times up at McDonald’s for coffee at the BS Table and he always had that big smile and great conversations each and every time we met. R.I.P. George.
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Lynn, Barb and Cheryl Boland posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Dear Jeff and family. We are so sorry to read that George, your beautiful dad, has passed away. George - or Mr.Hunsberger - was a man amongst men. A true shining star of all that is good in this world. My sisters and I remember him with love and respect. Please accept our deepest condolences.
“The heights by great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight, but they while their companions slept, were toiling upward in the night.”
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
Love Barb, Lynn and Cheryl Boland
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Gareth Cunningham posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
My deepest condolences to the Hunsberger family. News of George’s passing hit me hard, and I regrettably haven’t been in touch much over the recent years, and that means I can only pass along to you a sliver of his impact on my life that words can never fully express. I am so sorry for the monumental loss for all of you closest to George, as it would be exponential fathoms to what the loss that I’m feeling is. George / Mr. Hunsberger took a very shy, introverted grade 9 student out of his shell and immediately made me feel valuable and appreciated for who I was, and what I may be able to contribute. And I don’t even know how he discovered and managed to do this. He was remarkable that way and so honest, genuine, authentic, and generous with his ears, time, humour and wisdom. It’s entirely due to George and his old counterpart in that KRT student activity office Beryl Pflug that I found a home, a comfort, a quiet confidence, and a way of living a life that I have carried with me to this day. He was a coach and mentor, the best kind of role model, a confidant and inspiration you couldn’t imagine nor likely ever find again in the educational system. He listened above all else, and knew just what buttons to push, when to speak and just what to say, and a way of allowing you to find your own self, path, and voice. And he did it all in so many subtle and, for lack of a better way to say it, lovely way. You were a beautiful man, George, and the legacy you leave and impact you’ve made is truly remarkable. My memories of you are the very best, cherished kind, my day-to-day life in outlook, encounters with others, and hopes and dreams undeniably with your fingerprints all over, and my thoughts with your family and loved ones. Thank you for everything.
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James Hunsberger posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, January 12, 2023
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Dear Stephanie,
With sadness, I am absorbing the shock of hearing about George’s passing, the loss of a second cousin who I respected and lament for not keeping better and touch with. In the stillness of my mind and heart, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deep sympathy,
James
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Tom Litwiller posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
"HUNSBERGER HERE!" A booming telephone greeting I always looked forward to hearing when I dialled up George to discuss any range of topics dealing with Community Use of Bluevale Collegiate Facilities and Programs after hours. As a City of Waterloo Community Services employee for many years George and I along with fellow staff helped coordinate Reciprocal Use of Board Programs and Facilities along with our Community Programs. George fully supported this new initiative of sharing Community owned facilities and became a cheer leader for its success while some other doubted it could work. In the long run it did prove successful and became a model for others school boards and municipalities to follow throughout Ontario and the rest of Canada.
George and fellow staff even took time out of their Summer Holiday schedule to operate Youth Sports Centre at Bluevale Gymnasiums which City of Waterloo happily helped by providing a small annual community grant to ensure continued success over the years.
George showed by example what it took to be a Community Builder both as an Educator and a caring individual.
To Stef and the family. Thanks for sharing George with all of us who benefited by his Love for our Community
Tom Litwiller and Dianne Beresford
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jim majer posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
George: Gentleman.
Best listener ever, for me.
Well thought of, and well remembered.
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Donna Burtwistle posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
I am so sad to learn of George's death. I was deeply fortunate to have had Mr. Hunsberger as my guidance counsellor at Bluevale from 1983-1986. His support and advice meant the world to me at the time; I will never forget his kindness and humour. His advocacy ensured that I went on to university to pursue my own passions. I've always believed that if it wasn't for George's intervention on my behalf that my life's path would have gone in a very different direction.
Now that I teach with his son, Jeff, I see very clearly that George helped to shape and inspire his own children in a similar way! Even though I cannot imagine the grief that you are all feeling, what wonderful memories you must have of this most incredible human being. I offer my sincere sympathies to the family of the great Mr. Hunsberger.
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Brian Heggie posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
I was both shocked and stunned to hear of George's passing. He was such a rock for so many for so long.We felt he would always be there. Our group of 'Bluevale Buddies' had planned a gathering next week and its seems impossible that George won't be there.
I have known George since 1975 when we taught together at Bluevale. As Activities Director, he was the best possible link between staff and students. George was the perfect fit for that position. George promoted community and encouraged everyone to always be their best. He was a master teacher and he seemed to live for everyone else's success.George was the heart and soul of our Bluevale community.
He was a caring husband and father and was most proud of his family.
Whenever the 'Bluevale Buddies' met, George was our constant reminder of how special our together was. We will never forget the very special man that George was.
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Neil Aitchison posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Dear Steph and family, George touched many, many lives including ours. He was always the “gentle” man with the winning smile. We certainly trust and hope your many memories will sustain you as you adjust to this tremendous loss. Sending warm hugs to each of you. With Love Neil & Helen
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Bev Winkler posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Ahh Steph, I am so sorry to hear about George. I am going to be away and will not be able to attend his Celebration of Life but I will definitely get in touch with you when I return. Sending my love and hugs
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Chris Meyer posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Dear Steph and family,
I am so, so sorry to hear of George’s death. George was a most wonderful man. I am so sad for you.
My deepest condolences.
Unfortunately I am away and unable to attend his celebration of life which I’m sure will be very life-affirming.
Chris Meyer
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Paul Hock posted a symbolic gesture
Thursday, January 12, 2023
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George was my football coach many, many years ago. We reconnected in Southampton when I told him he looked familiar to me. A year or so later, I arranged for us to meet with some of the old team in Southampton, and we had a short but fun reunion. Thanks for everything you did, George. You will be fondly remembered by many.
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Andrew Nowak posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Dear Hunsberger Family,
Our sincerest condolences on the passing of George. I was one of those lucky people to have George as a coach, teacher and mentor. I will never forget his lessons on helping others and being a good teammate.
Sincerely,
Andrew Nowak
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Joel Planert posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
My heartfelt condolences to the Hunsberger Family.
George was a very special coach, counselor and friend to me for over 30 years. It's impossible to express how important, and impactful, he was in my early life. As a new (and lost!) highschool kid to Bluevale, I was so blessed to have George as the perfect model at such a crucial time in my life.
His life stories, subtle guidance and thought exercises, to this day, regularly run through my mind. I will miss him greatly.
Joel Planert
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Steve and Connie Warwick posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
To Steph, Gill and Family:
Connie and I are so saddened to hear of George's passing.
He was such a great guy and loved our the chats as our paths crossed during our many dog walks.
Always so friendly and interested in what we were up to.
The walk along Harmer will not be quite the same.
Our sincerest condolescences
Connie and Steve Warwick
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Michael Ferguson posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
12 January 2023
Dear Family: I remember with great fondness my wonderful time with George as a fellow teacher at Forest Heights Collegiate, as well as the many fine meals and times spent at Steph and George's home in Waterloo. They were a home away from home for a young and clueless teacher and I will always be grateful for that friendship. My deepest condolences and prayers for the family. Requiescat in pace, George. You were one of God's gentlemen.
Michael Ferguson
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Julie Brown-Gallagher posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
I am so sorry for your entire family's loss. As a former Bluevale Knight, I fondly remember Mr. Hunsberger's positive energy, unwavering dedication to student wellness and engagement, and above all, his compassion to all. His presence brightened every situation without fail, and his legacy lives on in his family and the countless ripples of kindness which he set in motion.
With my sincere sympathy,
Julie Brown-Gallagher
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Christine Lowater posted a condolence
Thursday, January 12, 2023
Out deepest condolences to the Hunsberger Family. I deeply respected George and he was a one of a kind man. He was instrumental during my high school years. Rest In Peace. You leave the world in a much better place because of your compassion and wisdom.
Christine Gies-Lowater and John Lowater
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Marion Johnston posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 11, 2023
George made all of the 26 years that I was fortunate to be his colleague better . I welcomed his warm smile ,fun comments ,
and ,yes ,even the goofy moments . I valued the many times he sensitively took the time to truly connect . We would need so many pages to include the list of colleagues, and more importantly students , whose lives he enriched . I hold George in one of the top drawers of my memory bank .
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Kai Tukums posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 11, 2023
I want to pass along my condolences to the entire Hunsberger family. I feel incredibly lucky to have been an impressionable teenager in the presence of such a great man. He was a coach and guidance counselor who could easily transition a conversation about basketball into a life lesson. At the time, I didn't know I needed a role model but that is what George became and feel blessed that George continued to make time in his schedule to keep in touch over the last 25+ years. He will be missed.
Kai Tukums
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Tom Connolly posted a condolence
Wednesday, January 11, 2023
I am honoured to be one of the first to pay tribute to an amazing human being .Words cant express the impact he had on so many people including me . Often in the background--George was skilled at bringing the best out in people--pushing them to be the best they can be . I had the good fortune to coach both football and basketball with George . When he trusted a player to go on the field or the court --it was often with the words--- 'go make a difference ' . he lived by example--he made a huge difference.
This loss is hard to fathom !
Tom Connolly
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The family of George Albert Hunsberger uploaded a photo
Wednesday, January 11, 2023
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Sunday
15
January
Celebration of Life
12:30 pm - 4:30 pm
Sunday, January 15, 2023
St George Banquet Hall
665 King St. N.
Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
Speeches to be shared at 2:30pm.
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