Waltraud Hüttenschmidt

It is with heavy hearts and profound sadness we announce that Eberhard’s dear wife and our mother, Waltraud passed away peacefully by her beloved husband's side on June 27th.

Waltraud was born in Lendringsen, in North Rhine-Westphalia in Germany. Brave and full of love, hope and ambition Waltraud followed Eberhard and immigrated to Canada in 1965. The two married in Montreal in February 1966. They started their family in this beautiful city, where their eldest son Christoph was born. Montreal always held a special place in Waltraud’s heart as the city’s European charm and joie de vivre helped her feel closer to home. It was between Montreal and the enchanting hills and forests of the Laurentiens (reminiscent of her home region of Saureland), that many of her lifelong friendships and memories were made.

As she forged a path for herself in a new country, Waltraud and Eberhard decided to expand their baking business. Once again Waltraud and Eberhard (Ed), this time with their young son Christoph, left all that was familiar to them and moved to Toronto. There in 1980, they joyfully welcomed the arrival of their twins, Stephan and Katharina.

Every bit as enterprising and entrepreneurial as Ed, Waltraud was a true partner in life and business, lovingly raising her three beautiful children, all while running their German bakery “The Pastry Chef” in Bloor West Village. With her warm and loving eyes she sparked joy in all those she met, as she chatted with customers and business owners, never too far from a good cup of coffee and a piece of plum cake topped with whipped cream.

Waltraud was a woman of profound depth and a sharp mind. She loved theatre, culture and poetry. She would frequently recite poetry in both German and English that was specific to the day, mood and moment. She was both passionate and practical, which helped her develop skills in her hobbies over the years. Her love for gourmet cooking and spending quality time with family and friends led her to host the neighbourhood's most delicious dinner parties— where all were welcome. She loved fashion and her sense of style and skilled hands at a sewing machine ensured that she (and often Eberhard too) were well dressed in daily life or for carnival.

Waltraud had a tremendous capacity to comfort, to listen without judgement and make everyone feel welcome. These are all values that she learned from and shared with her family (The Däumers and Vollenbergs) in Germany, her parents and her loving sister Erika, who were always in her heart. Faithfully driving her children to German school each Saturday, she ensured that her own childhood lessons, values and language would endure.

Last but not least, Waltraud had a life long appreciation for the Creator and his word. She treasured the Bible's beautiful hope for the future; a paradise earth and the resurrection.

Waltraud is survived by her loving and caring huband Eberhard, eldest son Christoph and his wife Dorothea, daughter Katharina, and youngest son Stephan and his partner Tara, family and friends in Germany and many close and dear friends in Quebec and Ontario.

The family shares special thanks to Lola for her dedication and special care, and to all the caregivers and doctors that helped take good care of Waltraud.

Liebe Mutti and darling Waltraud, you are forever with us in every ray of sun, light of the moon, warm summer breeze and falling snow and always in our thoughts and our hearts.