With his beloved wife, Hanna, watching down on him, Ernie (Ernst) Schwaab passed away at his home in Goderich on December 2, 2024 in his 81st year. He leaves behind a loving daughter, Christine (Tim) Martin of Goderich and a loving son, Mike (Michele) Schwaab of Ottawa. Ernie was a proud Opa of three grandchildren. Jacqueline (Mark) Martin and Ben (Lynzi) Martin of Goderich, and Courtney (Jason) Schwaab of Ottawa who will miss him dearly.
Ernie and Hanna both immigrated from Germany and moved to Kitchener, Ontario in 1963 where they starting their family. Ernie and Hanna were married for 56 years until Hanna passed away in 2019.
In Ernie’s younger years, he was a professional wrestler and travelled over Ontario and portions of the United States. When in the ring with a mask he was known as ‘Al Hayes’ and without a mask, he was known as ‘Waterloo’s Finest Ernie Schwaab’. These were stories his grandchildren loved to hear.
Ernie worked for CN Weber for over 30 years and retired in 2000 where the couple moved to Goderich and spent the remainder of their lives together.
Ernie was a man of few words. He was always able to make the people who surrounded him laugh and smile with either his words or actions. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.
Ernie’s family would like to thank the Adult Day Program in Goderich for their outstanding care over the last 20 years. They would also like to thank the countless PSW’s from St. Elizabeth’s and the Assisted Living Program over the last 20 years who helped Ernie with daily tasks each day. Everyone’s compassion and care towards Ernie over the years has been tremendous and we cannot thank you all enough.
A private ceremony will be held with immediate family.
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).
Bill wilson Joy Slater
We express our condolences for your loss….Our prayers for Ernie as well.
Bill and Joy
Lisa Beauseigle
Mike, Christine and families: my sincere sympathies during this time
Joanne Graf
Dear Christine and family
Our sincere condolences to you and your family.
Paul and Joanne Graf
Pat &Stu Steenstra
So sorry for your loss. Keeping you all in our prayers.
Stu and Pat Steenstra
Pat & Bob Desjardins
to the family of Ernie Schwaab
Thinking of you all at this sad time
Susan Franken
Christine, my sincere condolences to you and your family on the passing of your Dad.
Cecelia Denomme
Dear family – you are close in my ❤️- with your sadness – I have fond remembering of both – Helga and Ernie – they were special in our community – Their love for each of you – will always be in your hearts .
Caring and ❤️ – Cecelia Denomme
Arletta Heaps (nee Martin)
Loved hearing the stories of Ernie’s wrestling years in his obituary. Makes sense as I alway remember Erin’s with a smile on his face and a laugh during conversation. A positive energy and kind person to be around.
Our condolences Christine and family. May you have many memories to keep you in smiles.
Arletta, Todd and Fox
Heather Mackenzie
So sorry to hear about Ernie’s passing. Thinking of you all during this difficult time.
Heather, John & Jack Mackenzie
Jeff Gray
So sorry for you loss Mike. Our deepest condolences to you and your family.
David and Michelle Smith
Rest in peace Ernie. We have fond memories of spending time with you and Hanna at many great family meals and celebrations. You never said much but were always listening with that little smile. You were very fortunate to have a loving daughter and family in Goderich that took such great care of you after Hanna passed.
Sincerely
David and Michelle Smith and family
Ron Sowerby
Sincerest condolences to you Christine and all your Family. May your Father rest in peace….. Tag and Heather.
Liz Petrie
Oh the memories of Ernie and Hanna over the years! May you find comfort Christine and Mike, that your parents are reunited again. Cherish all during this very difficult time.
Hugs and deepest condolences to all of the family.
Liz Phil Brady Morgan and boys
Barb Garden
We are deeply sorry for passing of your Opa. Sending our deepest condolences to you and your family 🙏
Carlos and Barb Garden