Obituary of Jennifer June Gaynor

Jen Gaynor of Kitchener passed away suddenly after a brief illness on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 in her 55th year.

Beloved daughter of Nora (Marshall Gaynor) Swanson of Kitchener and John Gaynor (deceased 2004). Dear sister of Matt Gaynor of Hamilton, Will Gaynor and his wife Kristin Kusturin of Freelton and her stepfather, Dave Swanson. Also survived by her nephew, John Gaynor Cruz and several aunts and uncles. Jen was the eldest of 18 grandchildren to grandparents, Jack and Nellie Marshall of Niagara Falls and Lyle and Evelyn Gaynor of Kincardine. She doted on all of her cousins from the Clegg, Stackwood, Gilbert, Zettel and Wettlaufer families. She was predeceased by her Uncle Shaun and Aunt Katy.

Jen was a die-hard fan of Star Wars, eclectic music (especially 80’s pop), all genres of movies and Stephen King novels and would share her enthusiasm with all who would listen or watch with her, but especially her brothers. She was a dedicated cat mom and a lover of dogs as well.

Jen’s “old-soul” character was shown by her volunteering. She started attending Community Suppers at St. Mark’s Church and followed when the location shifted to Trillium (formery St. John’s, Waterloo). A leader in the program realized Jen was lonely, but as always, Jen instantly made friends easily. She was observed counselling and caring for others who had reasons of their own for being there. She was a receiver and a giver – a natural compassionate and caring human being reaching out to others.

Visitation will take place at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Tuesday January 13, 2026, from 2 p.m  to. 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Funeral service to take place in the chapel of the funeral home on Wednesday January 14 2026 at 11 a.m., with a reception to follow in the funeral home’s Fireside Reception Room. Private family interment to take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family or donations to Epilepsy Ontario may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com.

The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the WRHN @ Midtown ICU-A staff for the compassionate care offered with sincere humanity, not only to Jen, but also to those at her bedside.