Obituary of Anna Eichvald

Passed away unexpectedly, at home on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at the age of 87.

She is survived by her son, Bob Eichvald (Tanya Howard), grandchildren Laura Handbury (Clayton Vanis), Lia Eichvald, Benjamin Eichvald, great-grandchildren Nathan Vanis, Lucas Vanis. Brothers Mike Emrich and John Emrich. Predeceased by her husband Laimon Eichvald and daughter Sandra Handbury.

Anna was born on September 30, 1937, in Heidendorf, Romania. She was the first child of Anna and Johan Emrich. With the onset of WWII, Anna and her family fled Romania for Hemersheim, Germany, and unfortunately, her father died in the war. In 1950 they secured passage to Canada through a contract with a farmer in New Hamburg. The expanse of the Canadian landscape and wilderness was overwhelming and Anna shared fond memories of all the kids sleeping in the same bed on the farm.

Anna and her family lived on Union Street in Waterloo with her grandparents (Sophia & John), mom Anna, and brothers. They had a large garden and Anna and her brothers went door to door selling vegetables, which was not a favourite activity for them. She attended KCI High School and then found work at Mutual Life Insurance Company.

Anna was a founding member of the Transylvania Club in Kitchener. She met Laimon at the Transylvania Club Harvest Festival in 1959, they got married in 1962, and their love for each other endured for 62 years. Their love was evident to all who met them. Anna and Laimon loved to dance and the two of them displayed their dancing skills at the club and at family weddings and gatherings. Anna’s children (Sandy and Bob) were born in the 60s and she loved them very much. The family enjoyed travelling with many trips to Florida and to the cottage.

Anna’s primary career was as an entrepreneur. She and Laimon operated several successful business such as a Motel, Lottery booths and a convenience store. Anna took great pride in her business acumen and bookkeeping abilities.

In 1984 Anna and Laimon built their beloved cottage in Muskoka. This was truly Anna’s favourite place in the world and she thoroughly enjoyed providing her legendary hospitality and entertaining family and friends. The cottage was the location for many large family reunions and family was always welcomed. She especially loved the time at the cottage with her grandchildren and great grandchildren listening to the chipmunks’ music, making mud pies and enjoying the water. Anna’s hospitality was also legendary to her son Bob’s group of friends who loved the cottage and spent a lot of time in the summer there.

Anna and Laimon spent their winters in Florida visiting with their daughter, granddaughter and great grandchildren.

Anna was the greatest Oma to her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She adored spending time with them in person and on FaceTime. They have many cherished memories swimming at the cottage and late night playing cards!

Anna was a great cook and well known for some of her specialty dishes such as pigtails, schnitzel, paprika, crepes and Christmas cookies!

Anna was a strong and determined individual who came from humble immigrant beginnings and built the life of her dreams. She loved Canada and the life this country offered her and her family.

The funeral service will take place at Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 3:00 p.m., followed by a reception in the Fireside Reception Room. Cremation has taken place, and a private family interment will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to St. Peters Lutheran Church may be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or by calling 519-745-8445.