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BARBARA ANNE SCHLEGEL

1942 - 2022

BARBARA ANNE SCHLEGEL obituary, 1942-2022, Waterloo, ON

BORN

1942

DIED

2022

FUNERAL HOME

Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo

171 King Street South

Waterloo, Ontario

BARBARA SCHLEGEL Obituary

1942 - 2022
Barb died suddenly and unexpectedly at her home in Kitchener on Tuesday March 8, 2022. She was 79.
Beloved wife of Ron to whom she was married for 58 years. Loving Mother of Rob and his partner Jennifer, Brad and his wife Heidi and James and his wife Juliana. Much loved Grandma to Naomi, Nicholas and Jackson.
Barb will also be lovingly remembered by her sister and brothers-in law; Pauline Becker, Ernie and Joyce Schlegel, Jan and Art Mueller, Marilyn Gingerich, and Marilyn Schlegel. She was predeceased by her sister Linda, brother Bruce, parents Florence (Shantz) and Max Becker and brothers-in-law Carl Gingerich and Wayne Schlegel and parents-in-law Emma and Wilfred Schlegel.
Barb was born July 2, 1942 on the family farm located at what is now the Greenbrook Drive and Stirling Avenue intersection in Kitchener. Her parents, Max and Florence Becker, were very industrious and progressive farmers who also were very committed to their church and broader community. She learned at an early age the value of hard work and the expectation of pitching in to help with house and barn chores. She was also exposed at a young age, through her family's values and her Mennonite faith, the obligation of supporting those in need. One example of this was the family's commitment to taking in immigrants who would live and eat with them for up to six months until they could find employment and a place of their own.
Barb attended high school at Rockway Mennonite Collegiate in Kitchener where she met an energetic young out-of-town student from Ailsa Craig, Ron Schlegel. Barb declared shortly thereafter that Ron was "her guy" and they eventually married on June 27, 1964. They became true partners and together persevered through many life challenges.
Barb worked as a Royal Bank teller for several years after they married and volunteered at the Clothing Centre among other community charities.
While Ron was pursuing a post secondary education at the University of Western Ontario, the University of Illinois and Ohio State University, Barb played a crucial supporting role. When at Ohio State she somehow managed with three sons under the age of three years old living in a two-room student apartment.
After graduating, Ron and Barb moved to the University of Windsor before coming back home and Ron accepting a faculty position at the University of Waterloo in 1972.
In November 1980, at the age of 39, Barb suffered a series of massive strokes that nearly claimed her life. In fact, the family was told three times in the first month after the strokes that Barb would not survive the next 24 hours - but she beat the odds each time due to her fighting spirit and indomitable tenacity. After 8 months in hospital Barb was finally able to return home but the recovery journey was in reality just beginning. The next several years were very difficult ones during which Barb struggled to regain command of her damaged body as well as to accept her limitations. However, because of an almost unfathomable resilience and determination, she battled back to reclaim as much of her physical capabilities and independence as possible, although she was never able to drive nor read again.
Despite these ongoing physical and cognitive limitations, Barb displayed an immense gratitude, independence, and "can-do" attitude. She could often be found walking in the Williamsburg Community in Kitchener to conduct her daily errands and striking up many friendships with people along the way. Barb also joyfully volunteered at The Village of Winston Park and specifically identified residents who did not have family support so she could provide company and attention to them. She was described as bringing a positive energy and spark to the residents and team members she encountered. Although often playing a secondary role, Barb had a way of making an impact and lighting up a room with her smile, quick wit, and infectious laugh. She was also a very loyal and dependable person who could be relied upon to follow through or bring organization to the matters at hand.
Barb was a lifelong and active member of Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church. Her faith and church family played a central role in her life. Her Stirling lady's lunch club was always a highlight for her.
Mostly, she was a totally devoted wife, mother and grandmother who took immense satisfaction in the activities and achievements of her family.
Barb experienced many challenges in her life but always chose to keep her face to the sun and to thank God for the blessings she did have. She was an inspiration and friend to many.
Barb's family will receive friends and relatives at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King Street South, Waterloo on Thursday, March 24, 2022 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Friday, March 25, 2022 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. The funeral service to celebrate her life and faith will be held at Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church, 57 Stirling Avenue North, Kitchener, on Saturday, March 26, 2022 at 11:00 a.m.
Immediately following the funeral, friends and relatives are invited to join the family at Bingemans Ballroom, 425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener, for lunch and a time to visit. A private family committal service will follow at Williamsburg Cemetery, Kitchener.
Condolences for the family and donations to Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging or Homewood Research Institute for Mental Health and Addictions would be appreciated by the family and can be arranged through the funeral home at www.erbgood.com or 519-745-8445.
Those attending the visitation and funeral service must register online at www.erbgood.com or by calling the funeral home at 519.745.8445. No registration is needed for the reception at Bingemans.
Barb's family requests that visitors at the funeral home and those attending the funeral service wear masks and be fully vaccinated.
For those unable to attend the funeral at Stirling Ave. Mennonite Church due to capacity, the funeral service will be live streamed in the Bingemans Ballroom Saturday at 11:00 a.m. The reception with family will follow immediately after the service in the ballroom. The service will also be live streamed at www.erbgood.com on Barb's tribute page and will remain on the funeral home website for future viewing.
If you are not able to join the family for visiting at the funeral home or for the funeral service at the church, you are welcome to join them at Bingemans Ballroom for the reception at approximately 12:30 pm on Saturday, March 26, 2022.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Waterloo Region Record on Mar. 11, 2022.

Memories and Condolences
for BARBARA SCHLEGEL

Sponsored by Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo.

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28 Entries

Reg Chappell

October 30, 2022

Coach Ron, very sorry to hear of your loss. My heart goes with you. Reg

Roger Trull

March 26, 2022

So very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts are with all of you at this difficult time.

Lee and Bert Friesen

March 26, 2022

Our thoughts and prayers continue to you, Ron, Rob Brad and family. Through the sharing and music we saw on the live stream We were inspired and touched in reflecting Barb's life to her family, church and community

We came to expect Barbara´s smile, hug and warm greeting at each MEDA dinner event we were at. Always kind, proud mother and supporter of Ron. Her children are a testimony to her positive influence and role model.

Our thoughts and prayers are with you Ron, Jamie, Rob Brad and family.

Bert and Lee Friesen

Shawna

March 26, 2022

So sorry for your loss, Barb was such a wonderful person. The funeral service was beautiful. Thinking of you all.

Ray Morphy

March 26, 2022

My thoughts are with the Schlegel family on Barbs passing,

Sincere Serenity

Williamsburg Remedys Rx

Sent Flowers

Grove of 100 Memorial Trees

Kent Rice

Planted Trees

Barb & Dave Riley

March 20, 2022

It was many years ago when I had an active working relationship with Ron and by extension the Schlegel family. I hold many fond memories of that time, including gathering at their `big house on the hill´ and being awed by Barb´s presence and hospitality. She and her `boys´ made us feel like family. Deepest condolences Ron, Rob, Brad, Jamie and families. Together with Barb, you have blessed so many, including us.

Bob Turow

March 19, 2022

Sorry for your loss.

Celestial Love

Tracy Valko

Sent Flowers

J. Steckle Heritage Homestead

March 16, 2022

The Board and all staff at Steckle Heritage Homestead are absolutely devastated by the news. You are all in our thoughts and prayers.

Glenda & Ross Roth

March 15, 2022

So sorry to hear of cousin Barb´s sudden passing. We had lots of good times in our younger years and she was a bridesmaid in our wedding. I´m really glad we had a Becker cousins get together at our house about 2 1/2 years ago. Cherish the memories.

Jon Gingerich

March 14, 2022

So sorry for your loss Ron and family. I always felt encouraged after speaking with Barb; she had such a kind spirit and a way of making people feel valued.

Mary & Bob Donnelle

March 14, 2022

Our sincere condolences to the Schlegel family.
It was through our son Steven playing Kitchener Triple A Minor Hockey with Jamie and Brad that we met enjoyed their friendship at the many rinks. Fond memories of a wonderful family.

Tammy and Jason MacDonald

March 14, 2022

Our deepest condolences. She was a very wonderful lady. We were blessed to have known her.

James and Britt Van Every

March 13, 2022

We are very sorry for your loss. May great memories help you through your grief.

scotty bernard

March 13, 2022

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.

George and Athelene Miller

March 13, 2022

So sorry to hear of Barb's passing, Ron. She and I would often run into each other while doing rounds at Winston Park. She was always very gracious, and seemed to have endless patience and support for the residents. Athelene and I are out of country until April, but we'll be thinking of you and the family on the day and try to be in on the livestream - George and Athelene

Yvonne Brown and Jack McMillan

March 12, 2022

We were sorry to hear of your wife's passing. We are long time campers at Shady Pines and are thinking of you and your family.

Pamela Mosser

March 11, 2022

Sorry to hear of the passing of Barb. May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. Prayers and sympathies for Ron, Jamie, Brad, Rob and Families.

Juston Sharratt

March 11, 2022

Deepest sympathy Ron & family. Wishing you peace in this difficult time.

JR GAUTHIER

March 11, 2022

Thinking of the entire Schlegel family. Thoughts are with Ron and the boys.

Deanna Brady

March 11, 2022

I am so sorry to hear about Barb´s passing. My sympathies to Ron, Jamie, Brad and Rob, may you find comfort in one another during this difficult time.

Megan Newbury

March 11, 2022

To my Schlegel family, I was so sorry to hear of Barb´s passing. I have so many memories of her coming to the Village at Christmas for our bazaars, our staff appreciation dinners and operational planning. She was such a sweet and gentle soul, always looking out for others. I had so many wonderful conversations with her over the years. Her faith was evident in everything she did. I will be keeping you all in my prayers, and think of you all so fondly. Much love always. from Megan Newbury

Dan and Sue Gueguen

March 11, 2022

Truly sad to hear about your loss. Barb was truly the patriarch of the Schlegel family. Our prayers and sympathy to the whole Schlegel family during this sad time. Another angel has been called home. Amen

Elizabeth Smart

March 11, 2022

I am so sorry to hear of Barb's passing she was a very loving kind lady. My sympathies to Ron, Brad, Jamie and Rob may you comfort each other in this time of grief.

Ruth Auber

March 11, 2022

I´m so very saddened to hear Barb has passed away - but rejoice with you that she has entered the gates of Heaven and is with her Lord and Saviour. So many fond memories of Barb but mostly her wonderful smile and positive attitude.

Christine De Castro

March 11, 2022

I am so very sorry about the loss of Barb. She was a joy to be around; her great sense of humour, kindness, and optimism will be missed at The Village of Winston Park. She taught us all so much about strength, perseverance, and connection. We will feel this loss for a long time, but we will be bolstered by the many memories we have of her.

Showing 1 - 28 of 28 results

Memorial Events
for BARBARA SCHLEGEL

Mar

24

Visitation

6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo

171 King Street South, Waterloo, ON N2J 1P7

Mar

25

Visitation

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo

171 King Street South, Waterloo, ON N2J 1P7

Mar

26

Memorial Gathering

Bingeman's

425 Bingemans Centre Drive, Kitchener, ON

Mar

26

Funeral service

11:00 a.m.

Stirling Avenue Mennonite Church

57 Stirling Avenue North, Kitchener, ON

Funeral services provided by:

Erb & Good Family Funeral Home - Waterloo

171 King Street South, Waterloo, ON N2J 1P7