Dr. George Emrich passed away peacefully on May 17, 2025, at Waterloo Regional Health Network @ Chicopee in Kitchener, Ont., at the age of 82.
He was a beloved husband of 54 years to Ute Emrich (née Rossow). A cherished father of Patrick, Richard (Ashley Dresser), and Michael, he was a loving Opa to Abrie, Matthew, Addison and Pierce and dear brother of Kathy Kosch and Margo Foster. He was predeceased by his parents Johann and Katharina (née Klein) and brother John Emrich.
Born in December 1942 in Obereidisch, Romania, George’s early years were shaped by the upheaval and hardship of the Second World War. After the war, he and his family journeyed through Hungary to a refugee camp in Lenzing, Austria, where they lived for nearly a decade by the Ager River. The family later immigrated to Canada aboard the Beaverbrae, eventually settling in southwestern
Ontario.
George earned a bachelor of science degree from Waterloo Lutheran University before graduating from Ontario Teachers College. He taught science in St. Catharines for several years before following his true calling to medicine.
He completed his medical degree at the University of Western Ontario in 1971 and a surgical internship at St. Joseph’s Hospital in London, Ont. In 1972, he opened a private family medicine practice in St. Thomas, Ont., which he proudly ran for over three
decades, until his retirement in 2005.
George was exceptionally curious and deeply science-minded. He loved to understand how things worked and pursued a wide range of hobbies with characteristic intensity and focus. Over the years, he flew Cessna airplanes, carved intricate wooden ducks, repaired grandfather clocks, took photos, developed film, hunted, skied, boated, and even built an entire family cottage.
Above all, George was deeply devoted to his family. He worked tirelessly to provide them with opportunity, security and adventure. Though quiet and private by nature, he lit up when discussing topics he was passionate about. He was generous, loyal, and steadfast—especially to those closest to him.
In keeping with George’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A private family gathering will be held at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to Henry Walser Funeral Home in Kitchener.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Valdez and the nurses and staff at WRHN KW and Freeport for their exceptional care and compassion in George’s final days.
As expressions of sympathy, donations to the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, the Waterloo Regional Health Network Foundation - cancer centre, or a charity of your choice would be appreciated by the family.