Maria Elsa Klawunn (née Peukert)

On Family Day, Monday, February 16, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family, Maria entered into eternal rest at St. Peter’s Hospital, Maplewood Avenue in Hamilton at the age of 94. A fitting day for a woman whose life was devoted to her family.

Maria was the beloved wife of the late Johannes “John” Klawunn (2005). She was a devoted and loving mother to Paul (Monica), Bettina (Jim Wise), and Janet (Pierre Dionne). Proud and deeply cherished Omi of Jessica Klawunn (Jason Szeto), Jonathan Klawunn (Brenna Carberry) and Oma of Robert Wise (Vanessa), Justin Wise, Tyler Wise (Shari Gurusinghe), Claire Dionne, Samuel Dionne, Annick Evraire (Philippe Evraire), and Martine Ouellette (Cameron Oullette). She was a treasured UrOma to Evelyn, Josephine and Jett. Dear sister of Franz Peukert (deceased), Hans Peukert, Kurt Peukert, Walter Peukert (deceased) and Inge Deutscher. Fondly remembered by many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

Maria lived a life defined by compassion, patience, and quiet strength. As both a nurse and a mother, caring for others was not just what she did, it was who she was. She had a generous heart and a calming presence that brought comfort to all who knew her.

She inherited her love of baking from her father, a baker by trade, and became a phenomenal baker in her own right. Her Christmas cookies were legendary among family and friends, and her recipes remain treasured family heirlooms. Maria had a tender affection for birds and animals of all kinds, finding joy in the simple beauty of nature. She was an avid reader and walker who would go on daily walks for several hours well into her eighties.

A woman of deep and unwavering faith, Maria lived as an instrument of peace, guided by love, humility, and devotion to her family. Her legacy of kindness and steadfast faith will continue to inspire those who were blessed to have known her. The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate and dedicated team at St. Peter’s Hospital for their exceptional care and support.

Visitation will take place at Cresmount Funeral Home – Fennell Chapel, 322 Fennell Avenue East, Hamilton, on Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 1:00–3:00 p.m. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Regina Mundi Catholic Church, 631 Mohawk Road West, Hamilton, on Friday, April 10, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Private family interment later at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, Ancaster.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Operation Smile Canada or a charity of your choice would be sincerely appreciated.

Fond memories, photographs, and messages of condolence may be shared below.

“Like her beloved lilacs in spring, she filled our lives with quiet beauty and gentle fragrance; though she has drifted beyond our sight, she will forever bloom in the hearts of those who loved her and will always be deeply missed.”