Walter Kornas

It is with heavy hearts that we share news of the passing of Walter Kornas on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at University Hospital at the age of 72. He died peacefully, surrounded by the love of his family.

He is survived by his loving wife and partner Liz, adored son Christopher and his fiancée Natalie, and dear siblings, Alice Dunford (Noel), Leo (Marnie) and Mike Kornas. Brother-in-law of Fran & Jim Brase, Dora Boersma, Marilyn Atkinson & John Watkins, and Dave Atkinson. He was a fun uncle to Paul, Susan, David, Carrie, Tyler, Jon, Danny, Peter, Sylvia and Sarah. Best friend of Jerry Henshall.

Predeceased by his parents, Harry and Olga Kornas, Walter was immensely proud of his Russian and Belarussian heritage

Born and raised in northern Ontario, he was happiest outdoors, and especially on the water. Fishing was a lifelong passion. Just ten days ago he enjoyed a perfect Father’s Day fishing trip with Chris and buddies on Lake Erie. They easily caught their limit of pickerel and of course, he hosted a big fish fry the next day. At various times he loved to run and hike. A favourite route was the 21 km Lake Trail around Fanshawe Lake.

Walter had a huge personality, with a warm heart, quick wit, and a gift for making people feel welcome. He turned everyday errands into opportunities to strike up lively conversations and to brighten someone’s day. In the grocery store, he enjoyed chatting with the store workers and with strangers about what they were planning to cook. He loved a good laugh, a good meal, and good company, and he gave those things generously in return.

Walter was a devout wine lover, consummate host, and party planner par excellence, although as a morning person, he preferred to be comfortably ensconced in bed by 11:00 p.m.

Early on in his consulting career, Walter developed expertise in Indigenous economic development, working for tangible results for many First Nations in Ontario. In later years, he also worked on developing long-term housing strategies for First Nations in Ontario and BC. Walter loved his work, cared deeply, and endeavoured to make a difference in the well-being and prosperity of his clients and their members.

In keeping with Walter’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A funeral will be held at Westview Funeral Chapel and Cremation Centre, 709 Wonderland Road North, London at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2026, with a celebration of life (social hour) to follow from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at Walter and Liz’s home.  Details will be shared at the funeral. For those unable to join the funeral in person, the service will be livestreamed.  To register for the livestream, click on Remembering Walter.

Those wishing to make a donation in memory of Walter are asked to consider Verspeeten Family Cancer Centre through the London Health Sciences Foundation or a charity of your choice.