Willy Hofweller

In his youth, he was revered as a talented cross country skier and all around athlete, and member of a local dance group performing traditional dances such as the Schuhplattler (the slap dance). Apprenticed and registered as a stone mason, as was his father and grandfather. His nickname, Baron Vom Stein (the Baron of Stone) spoke to his skill and reputation in that trade.

With dim prospects in war torn Germany, he crossed the ocean in 1953 at the age of 23. Once landed in Toronto, he worked odd jobs as a dishwasher and general laborer, even picking fruit and tobacco in rural southern Ontario to make ends meet. He eventually found work laboring in the gold mines of northern Ontario, and other northern installations utilizing his skill as a stone mason.

Tired of the alienating northern lifestyle, he eventually settled in Hamilton where he married and started a family, eventually finding steady work as a steel worker at Stelco where he remained for over 30 years.

Carpenter, builder, winemaker, gardener, avid hunter and fisherman, lover of the outdoors and community friend who never hesitated to help his neighbors in need. He continued his love of skiing as a member of a local cross country ski club well into his 70’s.

He is preceded in death by his sister Renate and his brother Gerhard, his wife Adelheid and his son Rick. He is survived by his two sons Harry and Bill and his daughter Karin.

As per Willy’s wishes, cremation has taken place an no services will be held. No flowers or donations are required. Online condolences can be left at cresmountfennellchapel.com