ERNST EMMANUEL TAFEIT
Ernst Emmanuel Tafeit, in his 95th year, passed away peacefully at Alexandra Marine and General Hospital on Friday March 22nd, with the love of his life, Paula, whispering memories into his ear.
Beloved father to son Michael and his wife Anne (Bayfield), daughter Monica (Mississauga) and Papa to grandchildren Matthew Tafeit (Toronto), Stephen Tafeit and his fiancé Teegan Skals (Toronto), Katherine Johnstone and her husband Ryan Sims (Toronto), and Peter Johnstone (Whistler, B.C.).
Ernie and Paula emigrated from Austria as newlyweds in 1951, settled in Goderich in 1953 and immediately fell in love with Canada, Goderich and especially the people they met – friendly, kind and helpful in their assimilation into Canadian life. After working for the Dominion Roads Machinery Company, in 1956 Ernie became one of the founding partners of Akromold (Goderich) Ltd., a small tool and die shop and in 1982 Ernie and Paula assumed sole ownership. Akromold grew and prospered. Divesting themselves in 1989, the firm’s continuing success was a source of immense pride for Ernie. When not working in the business, Ernie relaxed by designing and building two cottages, skiing, hunting, golfing and enjoying his wide group of friends. As a member of the Goderich Lions Club for more than 50 years, Ernie particularly enjoyed participating in Club activities at Young Canada Hockey Week, the Lions Bingo and the annual Canada Day Beef BBQ. Ernie was always a willing volunteer, a member of the Club executive and was recognized for his contributions in 2005 with the distinguished Melvin Jones Fellowship Award.
In retirement, Ernie optimized every facet of his life – love of nature, travel and above all else, family. Ernie purchased a farm near Dungannon (ON), mostly because of the large wetland it contained. He loved to spend time planting some 7,000 trees, cutting grass, building wood duck nests and watching nature. It quickly became known as Ernie’s Sandbox. In the ‘off-season’, Ernie and Paula travelled the world, often venturing far afield to truly experience the local people, their customs and surroundings, the highlight being his fascination for Easter Island. Most importantly to him though, once retired, Ernie extended his love and dedication to his four grandchildren, almost exclusively on their terms, a cherished and lasting legacy.
Ernie lived a life devoted to love and family.
A Celebration of Life will be held at McCallum & Palla Funeral Home, 11 Cambria Street North, Goderich on Saturday March 30, 2019 from 2:00 p.m. – 5 p.m. with remembrances beginning at 2 p.m.
The family wishes to extend their heartfelt thanks to the doctors, nurses and staff at the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital and the Hematology Department at London Health Sciences. Donations to the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital Foundation and Nature Conservancy Canada are welcome in lieu of flowers.
We are always willing to go where called upon but this image shows a visual of the communities that our included in our initial transportation fee. We offer a 40km radius from any of our 5 locations (Arva (London), Exeter, Lucan, Seaforth, and Zurich). Any mileage beyond the included 40km will be charged a rate of $2.50/km (one way travel only).
Nick & Wilma Heykoop
Dear Paula
We are so sorry for your lost
Keeping you and your family in our prayers
Ernie was loved by all
He was the perfect gentleman
Sending love
Erwin & Ann Marchl
Ernie was a great boss & friend while working at Akromold. We have many fond memories of hunting & skiing with Ernie & the Family. He was always such a kind & fun loving man who enjoyed life inspiring others to share his enthusiasm.
Ann & I are sending our “Deepest Condolences” to you, Paula, Mike, Anne, Monica & Families.
Sincerely, Ann & Erwin Marchl ❤️💐
Jo-Anne Homan
Paula
I just learned today about your loss. I can not find the right words to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. Ernie was gentle caring and perfect. I am sending love and hugs. Jo-Anne Homan
Tom & Arlene Sager
Paula, Mike, Monica and Family, we are very sorry to hear of the passing of Ernie.Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May the fond memories help to bring you comfort through these trying times. Condolences.
Tom, Arlene Sager and Family.
Ellen & Stan Connelly
We were so sorry to hear of Ernie’s passing. What a wonderful neighour, and a true pillar to our Community. The video is magnificent — pictures hold so many memories, hold them close.
Elaine Black
Monica,
I’m so sorry for your loss. My condolences to you and your family.
In reading the obituary it sounds like your father was a wonderful man and very devoted and loving husband, father and grandfather. I hope your many memories of him will bring you comfort during this sad time.
Elaine Black
Darrell and Patti Parsons
I had the honor of being hired by Ernie back in 1989. He was a very special person to me and my wife. To Paula and family i am so very sorry for your loss
Joanne Graf
Dear Paula, Mike, Monica and families
Please accept our condolences on the passing of Ernie.
He was a very kind and generous man.
Sincerely Paul and Joanne Graf
Sharon Brown Brown
A wonderful man and a wonderful family. Many fond ski memories. A life well lived. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Sharon and Paul
Judy Johnston
Monica, I’m sorry for the loss of your father. Vicky, Bob, and I have you and your family in our thoughts at this sad time.
Jim and Linda Hayter
Paula…You and your family are in our thoughts during this time of sorrow….I remember how much dad (Bob) looked forward to golfing with Ernie in Bayfield…they were always the first ones on the course!
Ken & Sylvia McGee
To Paula & family.
A very nice man has left Picton Street, the Lions Club and the community at large. Ernie accomplished a lot in his lifetime and lived to an age that only many can dream of. Our deepest condolences to all of the family.
Julie Ruston
Our thoughts prayers and condolences to Mike & Anne and the extended family….our thoughts and prayers are with you all….Julie & Tom Ruston
Jim & Mona Mulhern
Our condolence to Paula and family.