Alfred Vernon Beech

It is with extreme sadness that we announce the loss of our father, Alfred “Ted” Beech, who passed away on Wednesday October 23, 2024, within a month of his 96th birthday, at Innisfree House in Kitchener.

Husband for 65 years to Rene who passed away in 2017. He is also predeceased by his two sisters, Rose James (Joe) and Laurie Brown (Sarge).

He is survived by his 4 daughters, Susan White (Ron), Pat Becker (Ken), Debbie Hergott (Paul), and Kerry Morell (Peter).

He was Grandfather to Craig Calver (Kari), Jeff White (Jen), Mike White (Shannon), Jamie Hergott (Jessica), Heather Walker (Troy), Jennifer Morell, and Kaitlyn Harrison (James), and also was a Great-Grandfather to 9 Great-Grandchildren.

Of course Ted had many nieces, nephews, and cousins, but his niece Valerie Freund (Wayne) always held a special place in his heart.

In recent years, Wilma King had become a “best friend” to him.

Alfred was born in Stratford and later moved to Kitchener. He was always industrious and worked at many jobs, including 26 years at “The Onward” manufacturing plant, located at King and Ottawa Streets. However, it was his long-time service (24+ years) initially as a Custodian and then in the Maintenance Department for the Waterloo County School Board, that he was proudest of.

He always looked forward with great anticipation to his twice yearly journeys to the Marea del Portillo resort in Manzanillo de Cuba. There he made friends with many of the locals who would eagerly welcome his arrival, and the gifts he would bring them, with a celebration in their village.

After selling the family home, of 65 years, on Pleasant Ave., Alfred was a resident of many local Retirement Homes, finally residing at Briarfield Gardens in Kitchener. He enjoyed playing Cribbage, Solo and Euchre by the hour.

He also spent hours of his time applying his craftsmanship and attention to detail, in designing and crafting a multitude of wooden cribbage boards, birdhouses and log cottages. He loved to display his “projects” and proudly shared them with friends, family and fellow residents. He also enjoyed playing his organ (keyboard), even though he was never able to read one note of music.

Special thanks go to his wonderful doctor, Dr. Kalra, who truly excelled in the level of care he offered, in fact Alfred said “he’d won the lottery” when he became Dr. Kalra’s patient. Dr. Dai and the palliative care team, and the management and staff of the various local Retirement Communities where Alfred resided.

As per Alfred’s request, cremation has taken place and there will be no visitation or funeral. As expressions of sympathy, in lieu of flowers, donations to the K-W Heart and Stroke Association, or Innisfree House would be appreciated by the family and may be made through Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre by calling 519-743-8900.

To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.westmountfuneral.com