Edward (Ed) Kuntz

It is a beautiful thing to pass from this life into the next surrounded by those we love most and who love us in return. With great sadness and immense love, my family announces my passing on January 1, 2026.

I am survived by my beloved wife Mary, with whom I shared 54 wonderful years of marriage; my son Jeff Kuntz (Kelly Kuntz) and grandchildren Noelle and Caleb; my daughter Jennifer Kuntz (Barb Zahnd); and my son Greg Kuntz (Julie Clarkson) and granddaughter Emily Kuntz.

I was born at home in Culross Township, Bruce County, in the village of Formosa, Ontario, to my parents Herbert (Herb) Kuntz and Hilda (Schill) Kuntz. Formosa was a German Catholic village, and German was my first language. When I was five years old, my maternal grandmother passed away, and we stopped speaking German at home, so I did not retain the language.

I attended Immaculate Conception Elementary School, Sacred Heart High School, and completed Grade 13 at Walkerton High School, where I proved to be a hardworking student and was honoured to serve as class valedictorian. After high school, I moved to Toronto to study Chemical Engineering at the University of Toronto. The transition to university was challenging, with intense competition for grades—especially since they were published in the Toronto Star. I lived at St. Michael’s College Residence and graduated in 1962 with a degree in Chemical Engineering.

My professional career began with the Canadian Oil Company, which was acquired by Shell Canada in 1963. I went on to spend 33 rewarding years with Shell. I met my wife Mary at her brother’s wedding, and we were married on October 9, 1971. Our family moved several times over the years—living in Montreal, Toronto before settling in Calgary in 1984 when Shell’s head office relocated. Calgary, and our home in Oakridge, became where we truly put down roots.

Throughout my life, Mary and I were active parishioners in the Catholic Church wherever we lived. Since moving to Calgary, we have been members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. I sang in many parish choirs and was always happy to help wherever assistance was needed.

In retirement, I embraced curiosity and creativity, finding joy in learning and serving others. I became a beekeeper, helped establish a computer lab at Greg’s elementary school, and worked to bring internet access to economically disadvantaged Calgarians. I taught computer courses on cruise ships, organized and administered numerous municipal, provincial, and federal elections, and spent countless peaceful hours woodworking—crafting a cedar-strip canoe and building a large greenhouse with Jenn on their acreage—while tending a garden that produced an abundance of vegetables for family meals. In later years, I explored new technologies like 3D printing and CNC routing, started a small machining business with Greg, and continued to support Mary and our children with renovations, projects, and new ventures. Whether building decks and sheds or repairing almost anything, I was always eager to lend a hand.

I am grateful for a life well lived, a loving family, strong faith, and the many opportunities I was given along the way.

Our dad was the kindest of souls, leading by example with unwavering integrity. He gave without hesitation, loved without condition, and showed boundless patience and devotion to his family and community. As his granddaughter Noelle so beautifully said, “heaven gained a most remarkable person”.  Fly high, Dad. You will be deeply missed and forever cherished. 

Our family extends our deepest gratitude to Dr. Brendan Vaughan for his support during this difficult time, as well as to the Palliative Home Care team, Drs. Davida Osei-Tutu, Nimira Alimohamed, and Nairne Scott-Douglas, and the staff at the Arthur Child Cancer Centre for their compassionate care. We also thank the staff at Qualicare and Vytality Home Care for providing kind and compassionate end-of-life care at home.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at Holy Spirit Catholic Church (10827 24 Street SW, Calgary) on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 7:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Holy Spirit Catholic Church on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 11:00am with a recording of the service available below for those unable to attend in person.  Reception to follow in the Blessed J.P. II Jubilee Room at the Church.  The Graveside Service will follow at Eden Brook Cemetery (24223 Township Rd 242, Calgary, AB).

In lieu of flowers, donations to a charity of your choice are welcomed in honor of Edward’s lifelong commitment to serving others.

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