Obituary of Gunther W. Schwarz

On the evening of February 5, 2026, Gunther Schwarz passed away peacefully at The Village at University Gates Long-Term Care after a loving and meaningful visit with his devoted wife Alida and daughter Sandra by his side. He will be forever missed by his three daughters, Angela (Mark), Victoria (Mike), and Sandra (Fernando); grandchildren Jake (Yoohee), Aaron (Morgan), Emily (Nick), and Meghan; and great grandchildren Lillian and Parker. Predeceased by his parents, Wenzel and Elfriede Schwarz, and mother-in-law, Anna Unruh.

Gunther immigrated to Canada at the age of 17 with his parents where he lived next door to his future bride in Winnipeg, Manitoba. They married and moved to Waterloo Region with their first born. As newcomers to this area, Alida joined W-K United Mennonite Church. Here, they formed many close friendships that have lasted throughout the years. Eventually, Gunther also became a member in 2008. In building their life together, they started Schwarz Roofing in 1976; a successful and thriving business until they sold and retired after Gunther’s battle with cancer. They enjoyed living in Maryhill on their hobby farm for over 20 years with many horses, dogs, and cats. A wonderful place where everyone was welcome! Gunther and Alida were able to travel to many places throughout the world before and after their retirement until COVID. During this time, they both began to understand that they needed more support and moved into the residential suites at University Gates until requiring more support in their Long-Term Care community.

Special thanks to the staff on Pollock Neighbourhood for the excellent care and comfort and dear friend Jasmin Spaulding who generously spent time and cared for him and Alida.

Visitation will take place at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo, on Tuesday February 10, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Funeral service to take place in the chapel of the funeral home on February 10, 2026, at 12 p.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 and donations to the Waterloo Regional Health Network Cancer Center may be arranged through the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or at www.erbgood.com.