Obituary of Paul David Jantzi

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After a brave battle with pulmonary fibrosis, David (Dave) passed, on Monday, July 15, 2024 at Innisfree House in Kitchener. He was 72.

Loving husband of Victoria “Tori” (Koski). Devoted father of Paul of Montreal and Liz Jantzi and her husband Raymond Barkhouse of Kitchener. Cherished grandfather of Hannah and Claire.

He is also survived by his mother, Doris Lebold Jantzi of New Hamburg; brothers and sisters; Luke Jantzi (Eloise), Peter Jantzi (Theresa Schumilas), Marybeth Jantzi, and Rebecca Jantzi-Boles (Tim Boles). Brother-in-law of Diana Robertson (Bill) and Katharine Koski (David MacDonald).   Dave will also be remembered by his many nieces and nephews.

Dave was predeceased by his father Orval Jantzi; father and mother-in-law Roseanna and Bill Koski and brother-in-law Roderick Koski.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Tori, whom he cherished and loved for almost 48 years. His granddaughters held a special place in his heart, and he was adored in return.

Dave worked in the insurance restoration industry for over 44 years, where he was respected for his dedication and professionalism.

While not buried in a good mystery, sci-fi, or western novel, Dave found immense joy in fishing, especially with his fellow Muskie hunters, and also spent many memorable days at the fish camp in Quebec. He was often found out on his boat, relishing in the tranquility of the water, and sharing stories about his favorite subject: baseball.

Baseball was more than a passion for Dave; it was a way of life. For over 35 years, he dedicated himself to coaching with the Waterloo Minor Baseball Association Tigers, leaving an indelible mark on countless young players whom he mentored and inspired. His commitment and expertise were recognized with numerous accolades, including the WMBA’s (Waterloo Minor Baseball Association) Lifetime Achievement Award in 2019, the 2007 Coach of the Year Waterloo award from the ICBA (Intercounty Baseball Association), and the 2007 Youth Coach of the Year award from Baseball Ontario.

Dave will be remembered for his unwavering kindness, his infectious enthusiasm for life, and will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

Dave’s family will receive relatives and friends at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King Street S., Waterloo on Thursday, July 18 from 2- 4 p.m. and 7- 9 p.m.  A memorial service to celebrate Dave’s life will be held in the chapel of the funeral home on Friday, July 19, 2024 at 11 a.m.

Immediately following the service, relatives and friends are invited to the Fireside Reception Room of the funeral home for lunch and a time to visit with the family.

Dave and his family want to extend their gratitude and appreciation to the staff at St. Mary’s Hospital Emergency and 6^th Floor and the wonderful staff and volunteers at Innisfree Hospice. 

Donations to the Canadian Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation and Innisfree Hospice would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy and can be arranged through the funeral home, www.erbgood.com or by calling 519-745-8445.