Ernest William Neudoerffer

It is with deep love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived that the family of Ernest “Ernie” Neudoerffer announces his peaceful passing at Hospice of Waterloo Region on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the age of 90.

Ernie was born on November 2, 1935, in Loetzen, East Prussia, and in 1951 immigrated to Canada with his parents—an act of courage and hope that shaped the rest of his remarkable life. He often reflected, with pride and humility, that only in Canada could a 16-year-old immigrant from Germany grow up to become an English teacher—a truth he embodied with grace, gratitude, and dedication.

Ernie was the beloved husband of his lifelong “sweetheart,” Carole Neudoerffer (née McKay), and the devoted father of David (Judy), Michael (Kendra), and Karen Dugan (Matt). He was a deeply loved and adored Opa to Tom Neudoerffer (Darcy), Kristine Epp (Doug), Sam Dugan, and Chloe Dugan, and a proud great-grandfather to Mallory and Natasha Epp, whose presence always brought a sparkle to his eye and a grin to his face. He was predeceased by his parents, Werner and Luise Neudoerffer, and his brother Tommy and sister-in-law Norma.

First and foremost, Ernie was a family man. His love showed up every day—in time spent, in encouragement given, and by quiet example. The family front yard transformed with the seasons: a soccer pitch in summer and a hand-built ice rink in winter. Whether kicking a ball after school, lacing skates, coaching from the sidelines, or simply being present, Ernie taught his children—and later his grandchildren—how strong families are built: with patience, commitment, joy, and love.

Ernie had a lifelong passion for learning and teaching. A graduate of McMaster University, he dedicated his career to education with the Waterloo Region Board of Education, teaching at Glenview Park Secondary School, Preston High School, and concluding his career at Galt Collegiate Institute. Teaching was never just a job for Ernie; it was a calling. Wherever the family traveled, they were often stopped by former students eager to share how much they enjoyed his class and how much he had meant to them—moments that always made him smile.

A true lover of life, Ernie’s interests were many. Soccer was his great sporting passion. He played as a boy in Germany, competed at McMaster, and later played into his mid-thirties with the Galt Eagles. Even after his playing days ended, he continued as a coach, referee, and enthusiastic supporter, famously kicking the ball around well into his seventies—sometimes barefoot, always joyful.

Another lifelong love was trains. Ernie delighted in traveling by rail around the world and, when home, building elaborate model train layouts with his children and grandchildren. He was an active and proud member of the Cambridge Model Railway Club, where his enthusiasm was contagious.

The outdoors called to Ernie in every season: helping friends on their farms—throwing hay bales well into his seventies—camping trips, lakeside swims, farm work, cottage summers, and laughing as the favourite target of the potato launcher. He loved deeply, smiled easily, never went to bed angry, and carried a heart of gold. He was, in every sense, the best of what it meant to be a Neudoerffer.

Ernie and Carole made their home in Galt/Cambridge for 55 years where they were active members of First United Church. The past nine years have been spent at Luther Village on the Park in Waterloo, where they were warmly embraced by community and friends and Knox Presbyterian Church.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the PSWs, staff, and volunteers at Luther Village, Grand River Hospital, and Hospice of Waterloo Region for their compassion, care, and kindness.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family remembrance has been held. As expressions of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to Knox Presbyterian Church, Waterloo, or to the Parkinson Society of Southwestern Ontario.

No matter how long we are given with someone so special, it is never enough. Ernie’s life was a gift—and his love, lessons, and laughter will live on in all who were blessed to know him.

Arrangements entrusted to Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, Kitchener, (519-743-8900). Online condolences at www.westmountfuneralchapel.com