Obituary of Ruth Jantzi

To view the recording of the service, please click here

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Ruth Arlene Jantzi (nee Lichti), who peacefully ended her journey in this world, in the presence of her family on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

Ruth channeled her energetic spirit into every aspect of her life. She was the secretary of the Kitchener Waterloo Council of Churches for many years and an active volunteer with the Kitchener Conestoga Rotary Club Turkey Drive. Ruth was also a dedicated member of Erb Street Mennonite Church, participating as song leader, in the sewing circle, helping manage the kitchen for social activities, supporting families who were new to Canada, and serving breakfast fare at the annual Mennonite Relief Sale in New Hamburg.

A world traveller, Ruth journeyed far and wide, accompanied by her husband Ken who was her partner in life for over 55 years. Together they visited Scandinavia, South Africa, many parts of the USA, and numerous countries in Europe. This love of travel has been inherited by her children, who were introduced to the concept at a young age through cross Canada road trips.

Ruth and her family received tremendous support during her time in hospital, by the many whose lives she had touched. She is described as caring, giving, a treasure, the keeper of family history, an inspiration, the Energizer Bunny…but above all, a dear friend.

Ruth’s memory will forever be held in the hearts of her husband Ken and her sons Darrell (Patricia) and Greg (Alison), her grandchildren Michael and Stephanie, her brother Jim Lichti (Jennie), and her sister-in-law Eileen Radstake (Monty Woodyard).

Predeceased by her parents Emmalien (nee Wagler) and Elmon Lichti.

The Jantzi family wishes to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the ICU staff at Grand River Hospital who provided wonderful care and comfort for Ruth and her family as she battled her health issues.

Visitation will take place at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Erb Street Mennonite Church, 131 Erb St. W, Waterloo on Thursday, May 2, at 11:00 a.m. The service is preceded by visitation from 10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., with interment to follow the service at Erb Street Mennonite Cemetery. A reception will take place in the church hall following the interment. 

For those unable to attend the funeral, the service has been recorded and the link is at the top of this page.

In memory of Ruth, donations to House of Friendship, Mennonite Central Committee (Ontario), Beyond Housing (Mennohomes Inc.), or the Alzheimer Society may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or by calling 519-745-8445.