Obituary of Ronald Hurdal

Passed away peacefully from a sudden illness. Born in Riverton, Manitoba, he came to Waterloo in 1965 for his Masters in Applied Mathematics at the University of Waterloo. He was hired by the University's Department of Computing Services as a computer analyst, being in charge of the "Red Room" as the computer facility was known in 1966. He also co-wrote a number of computer compilers that are used by thousands of universities and businesses worldwide. He worked for the University in the computing field until his retirement at age 55. He will forever be missed by his beloved wife of 45 years, Karen. Ron will be cherished forever by his daughter Monica (Brian) and grandchildren Angela and Charlene; his son Brian (Lisa) and grandchildren Leif and Faye. He was a great father who taught his children to love math, hockey, value education and strive for independence. He is also survived by his brother Norman (Phyllis) and sister Viewlan. He will be forever remembered by his in-laws Ingrid and Eugene Blechner and his many nieces and nephews. One of Ron's favourite past-times was hockey, which he played until his illness. He played with the Brandon Wheat Kings, the Waterloo Warriors, the K-W Industrial League, the K-W Oldtimers League, the Waterloo Chippers Hockey Organization, Rhymers Tournament Team and several recreational leagues. He enjoyed the camaraderie and tailgates with his hockey team mates and he will be sadly missed by his many hockey friends. Ron also loved travelling to visit his family; he was always working on mathematics problems and was an avid reader of countless books. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather and we are grateful to have had Ron in our lives. Family and friends are invited to share memories of Ron at the Erb and Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S., Waterloo on Monday, May 14, 2012. Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. - 1:45 p.m., with a celebration of his life at 2:00 p.m., followed by a reception. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Grand River Regional Hospital or a charity of your choice by contacting the funeral home at 519-745-8445 or www.erbgood.com