Obituary of Laimon Eichvald

Passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on Monday, May 27, 2024. Survived by his loving wife Anna Eichvald (nee Emrich), son Bob Eichvald, grandchildren Laura Handbury, Lia Eichvald, Benjamin Eichvald, great-grandchildren Nathan Vanis, and Lucas Vanis. Predeceased by his daughter Sandra Handbury.

Laimon was born on May 14,1934, in Zebrene, Latvia. He was the only son of Arnold and Milda Eichvald. He was a very social and active boy who loved sports and spent his early years on his grandparents' farm. With the onset of World War II, Laimon and his family fled Latvia for Esslingen, Germany where they lived in an internment camp. In 1949, the family then secured passage to Canada through a 1-year contract with a Mennonite farmer in West Montrose.

The family moved to Kitchener where life really started for Laimon. In 1951, Laimon started working at General Springs (Lear Corporation), a local auto parts manufacturer where he was employed for 36 years, rising to the position of Plant Superintendent. Laimon thoroughly enjoyed his career and the friendships he made at Lear.

Laimon joined the Hamilton YMCA Volleyball team and won numerous National Championships in the 60's and 70's. He was honoured to play for Team Canada at the 1963 Pan American games in Brazil. Laimon played volleyball into his 60’s and was a beloved member of the local volleyball community. He also went on to win the National Doubles Championship in table tennis.

Laimon and Anna met at the Transylvania club harvest festival in 1959, they got married in 1962 and their love for each other endured for 62 years. It was truly and epic love story! They enjoyed spending time with family, playing cards and dancing the night away at the club. His children (Sandy and Bob) were born in the 60's and the family enjoyed time together with annual trips to Florida, and many summers at Laimon's parent's cottage.

Laimon and his wife Anna bought and operated several successful businesses and his pride and enthusiasm for business were regular dinner table discussions. In 1984, Laimon and Anna built their beloved cottage in Muskoka where they entertained family, friends and spent the bulk of their retirement. Laimon also enjoyed spending the winters in Florida visiting his daughter, granddaughter and great-grandchildren!

Laimon enjoyed life to the fullest; he loved to connect with people and was always curious and inquisitive with friends and acquaintances. Those who knew him enjoyed his hospitable nature. Eternally happy and friendly, he was always up for a party, dance, celebration or to offer a drink.

Laimon was known for his "Laimon-aid!" A punch he would create that was a strong concoction and sure to make you lose your inhibitions and have some fun!

Lia and Ben Eichvald (Grandchildren) fondly remember his famous blueberry bagels with cream cheese and jam.

Laura Handbury (Grandchild) remembers spending all her summers growing up at Oma and Opa’s cottage in Muskoka where she made some of her fondest memories, like Opa allowing her to put every barrette she owned in his hair as a young girl and take pictures. He taught Laura how to waterski and made sure to dunk her in the water while tubing. They danced the Jive together on the boathouse and had very competitive games of Euchre and Canasta. “I will treasure these memories and now hope to pass his spirit and fervent joy for life onto my two little sons.”