Obituary of Menno Steckle Smith

To view the livestream, please click here. 

Menno died suddenly at his home in Waterloo on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

He was 87. He is survived by his beloved wife Jean, who he married in 1962, and cared for dearly all his life. 

He was a devoted and kind father to Brian (Anne-Marie) and Diane (Ian), and loved his grandchildren Ian (Kaisha), Erika, Raven, Stephen (Bird) and Marissa.

He is predeceased by his parents, John and Hannah (Steckle) Smith, his sister Ella Koster, brother Norman Smith, and brothers-in-law Harvey Smith, James Catron, and Alan Lane. He is survived by his siblings Martha (Gerald) Good, Mary Smith and Earl Smith.

He raised two kids, ran a business and worked hard. Menno loved his family, loved learning new things, and loved being outside in nature, taking pictures. A skilled craftsman, he made everything from picture frames to furniture, clocks to guitars, always learning and growing his craft. 

He was kind to everyone, treating them with curiosity, an open heart, and good humour. He was dedicated to his community, Markdale, which he loved. He volunteered for various charities, sang in choirs, and was always available to help whoever needed it, with no judgment.

His life was a blessing and he will be missed. 

Visitation will take place at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 3 p.m. to 3:45 p.m.  The funeral service will take place in the funeral home chapel at 4:00 p.m. Reception to follow.

A livestream and recording of the funeral service will be available on Menno’s tribute page here.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family or donations to the Markdale and District Food Bank may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com