It is with great sadness and love that we announce the passing of Harald Ewald Hoefel. Bravely, and with characteristic dignity, Harald passed on 24 August 2023, just shy of his 74th birthday. As always, he was surrounded by the love of his family. Predeceased by parents Ewald and Maria (Mohr), left to mourn are sons Adam (Lucy) London UK, Andrew (Eneida) Mexico, daughter Catherine (Daniel) Alberta, his cherished grandchildren Aurora, Laurel and Jasper, and his spouse of 47 years Anne (Johnston). Harald also leaves behind his brother Carl (Carlton Place) and sister Monika (Oshawa) along with nieces and nephews, special friends Greg and Laurie Olsen, many good friends and extended family, and his beloved English Springer Spaniel, Ollie.
Born in Germany, Harald and his parents arrived in Canada when he was 3 years old. He made the best of life in this new country, recounting many fond memories of childhood adventures and family events. The family settled in Ajax, eventually moving to “the farm” on Taunton Road in 1968.
The first of his family to attend higher education, Harald was a graduate of the University of Toronto, Mechanical Engineering class of 1972. It was a profession he loved with a passion, reluctantly retiring from Kontek Ecology in 2020.
Harald always enjoyed travelling, whether it be in his beautiful Canada or visiting far away places with his family. He loved to learn and to experience new things and had the remarkable ability to dependably produce random historical or geographical facts. His depth of knowledge would regularly confound and amuse his family, who knew he was equally incapable of remembering a short shopping list.
Harald, fortunately for his family, had the innate ability to design, construct or repair almost anything making him our own Mr. Fix-it. The list was unending, leaving us all wondering how we will manage without him.
His pride and joy were his children and grandchildren. He never needed encouragement to boast about their accomplishments or their adventures and he was never happier than when they were all gathered together at home.
The family wishes to acknowledge the professional yet compassionate care provided to all of us by the Palliative team at Trillium Hospital Mississauga. They made a difficult journey so much easier.
Following his wishes, there will be no funeral. A Celebration of Life will take place in October. If desired, donations may be directed to a charity of your choice, especially anything supporting Palliative Care in the community.