Maureen Kama

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved Maureen (née Ernst), who peacefully left us on Sunday, March 9th, 2025, at the age of 82, after a courageous battle with cancer. She passed away at home, surrounded by her loving family.

Maureen was the cherished wife of 48 years to Jone, and a devoted mother to Mark Springall (Cate Freeman), Judy (Gary) Smale, Michael (Noriko Ito) Springall, and Maggie (Siti) Pareti. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Nicolle (Andrew) Leon, Kaitlyn and William Smale, Kian and Jackson Pareti, and a great-grandmother to Arthur and Sophia Leon. She is also survived by her siblings, Tom (Debbie) Ernst and Kevin (Jill) Ernst, her brother-in-law Paul Shantz, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will all miss her deeply. Maureen was predeceased by her sister Colleen and brother Brian.

A woman of grace, warmth, and kindness, Maureen found peace in the simple joys of life. She loved to sit outside with a good book, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the flowers she adored. Above all, she treasured the time spent with her family, and her love for them was evident in everything she did.

Family will receive guests on Thursday, March 13, at Westmount Memorial Celebration Centre, 1001 Ottawa St. S. Kitchener, for visitation from 6 – 8 pm. A funeral service will take place the following day at 11am in the funeral home chapel. Cremation to follow.

At Maureen’s request, the family kindly asks that guests wear colour to celebrate her life and the joy she brought to all.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Grand River Cancer Centre in her memory.