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Ewald Josef Bierbaum

February 20, 2017

Peacefully at his home on Monday, February 20th, 2017 in his 86th year. Loving husband of Ilse (née Jonkhans) for 63 years. Ewald was the proud father of Bernie and his wife Susan, Carol Scott, and Greg and his wife Jacquie. Opa to Christel, Natalie (Matt), Colin (Libby), Jaclyn (Mike), Michael, Robert, and Steven. Gros Opa of Siena, Avery and Jack. Born in Paderborn, Germany on January 21, 1932, arriving in London, Ontario in 1952. He loved building and gardening. His love of building started in Germany with single-family homes, and moved to Canada creating apartment buildings, commercial, retail and office buildings. His love of gardening allowed him to build nurseries for thousands of trees installed around London as well as a personal fruit orchard and vineyard. Ewald enjoyed nurturing his work. Visitation will be held at WESTVIEW FUNERAL CHAPEL, 709 Wonderland Road North, London, on Thursday, February 23rd, 2017 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. George Roman Catholic Parish, 1164 Commissioners Road West, London, on Saturday, February 25th, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. Cremation with a private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to make a donation in memory of Ewald are asked to consider the Canadian Diabetes Association or a charity of your choice. 

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(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ chris hamber

Mrs Bierbaum, Bernie & Sue, Carol, Greg & Jacquie. We're truly sorry for your loss, but please take comfort to in knowing that his life was shared with so many people including ourselves. Our blessings to you all Thomas & Christine

~ Thomas & Christine Puddicombe

Bernie & Sue and Family. We were saddened to hear about Ewald. His spirit will remain with you and your family for ever. We're thinking about you all. Lauretta and Andy

~ Lauretta and Andy Pisarczyk

Bernie, Sue and family, We are so sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad, Ewald. What a legacy he has left for your family and for all of London. A strong work ethic, a true gentleman, a man with a vision. I'm sure you have so many wonderful memories that will keep him close. Hugs to all of you!

~ Clive and Marilyn Bowden

Ilse and family We just found out about Ewalds pasing.When he would come down to the neighborhood we would enjoys each others company. He was a very funny man , humble and kind - A good Soul. God is looking over him now - Prayers to you all.

~ Pat and Bob Wendt

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Bronnenco Construction Ltd.

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Wilf May

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Randy&Marion Hanke

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Greg & Susan Rumble

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Mrs. Isabelle Godo

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Jamie Crich

(Donated to London Down Syndrome Association)

~ Stinson Security Services Ltd

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

~ Semco Paint & Janitorial Supply

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Sifton Properties Ltd.

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Hastings & Aziz Limited

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ SBM & EMCAD

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ NortraxCanada/John Deere, Jack Shewan

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Ted Aziz

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Hans and Mary Nerger

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Lauretta & Andy Pisarczyk

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Henry Salvador & Mircom Group

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Anne Butcher

(Donated to Canadian Diabetes Association)

~ Josef Frisa

Bernie, Kathy and I are saddened to hear of your Dad's passing. While our involvement with him was insignificant from his perspective, the relationship is valued from ours for the many years he treated us with kindness and respect as Heintzman Piano and Organ tenant at Cherry Hill. We remember him fondly and you in your junior years managing the Mall. Our condolences to you and your family. He touched our lives with Grace.

~ Dick and Kathy Warren

Our thought and prayers are with the Bierbaum Family. The wonderful family that Ewald and Ilse have raised is a tribute to how special Ewald and Illse are. It was a pleasure to know Ewald. We shall remember his love of life and commitment to his family. May he rest in peace. God Bless!

~ Mike & Lynda Baiano

Our deepest sympathy as we share in your grief in the loss of not only a loving family member but also a strong pillar of the London community. Death leaves behind a heartache no one can heal Love leaves a memory no one can steal. Ewald's legacy will live on through all of you and the love you share xo

~ Steve, Kathy, Michelle, Jennifer & Chris Petit

Our thought and prayers are with the Bierbaum Family. The wonderful family that Ewald and Ilse have raised is a tribute to how special Ewald and Illse are. It was a pleasure to know Ewald. We shall remember his love of life and commitment to his family. May he rest in peace. God Bless!

~ Mike & Lynda Baiano

Ilse, Bernie & Susan; Carol; Greg & Jacquie I was saddened to learn of the death of Ewald. I have many happy memories of my time spent at St. George's and knowing the Bierbaum family. Please know that you are remembered in prayer and in the Mass that I will offer for the repose of his soul. In gratitude for a life well lived on this earth may he enjoy life eternal.

~ Fr. Rick janisse

Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Ilse, and your Family.

~ Max & Gisela Leisinger

Our deepest condolences to Greg, Jacquie and family at this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you.

~ Bob and Ingrid Keith

Ewald, Mr. Old Oak ... One of my favourite men of all time. A true London pioneer who made our community a better place to live. Proud father, devoted husband, respected business leader, great risk taker and a loyal friend. Together with matriarch Ilse they have raised a wonderful family that continue his legacy today. My condolences and sincere sympathy for your loss Greg, Carol & Bernie and family. May God Bless you all.

~ George Georgopoulos

Dear Ilse and family, I was saddened to hear the news of Ewald's passing. I have so many happy memories of times spent with your family, from early childhood. Ewald will always be "Onkel Ewald" to me. My condolences - you are in my thoughts and prayers.

~ Joanie Causarano

Bernie, Sue and Family: We were so very sorry to hear of Ewald's passing. Bruce always enjoyed chatting with him. Wishing you many wonderful memories to cherish. Bruce and Vicki Hambly

~ Bruce and Vicki Hambly

Our deepest sympathies Greg to you & your family for the loss of this amazing man! May the pain you are feeling today be quickly replaced by sweet memories.

~ Mary, Brad & Caleigh Arthur

We are very sorry to hear the sad news about Ewald. He has been a friend for many years, since before coming to Canada, as Heinz and Ewald are both from Paderborn. Through the years, we had many good times together with Ilse, our children, and a close knit group of friends, laughing together, and helping each other. We will miss Ewald deeply, and send you and your family our condolences.

~ Heinz and Dorle Nerger

All in our thoughts and prayers at this very sad time.

~ Dieter, Mary-Lynn Fiest and Families

My condolences on your lose. I learned a lot when I worked for Ewald. You are all in my prayers.

~ Doug Voaden

Saddened to hear about Ewald's passing. He was a wonderful neighbour and lived life to the fullest. I remember his energy and zest for life. Carry your memories of him with you forever Carol, Bernie, Greg and Ilse.

~ Trudy and John Herbert

Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this time of grief and sadness on the loss of your beloved Ewald.

~ Harvey and Mary Schilke

Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. May God wrap his loving arms around you and give you comfort knowing that Ewald has an eternal home in heaven.

~ Shirley Mitchell & family

Dear Bernie,Susan,andfamily;Our thoughts are with you and yours regarding the passing of a truly loved ambassador for the city of London,Ontario,and likewise wherever your family travels took you all in your many varied travel adventures whether for business or pleasure over many years.our great city is better given your fathers many talents in the construction industry per se ,along with his immeasurable horticulture abilities to make his new found country and home complete for us all to enjoy ten fold.his legacy will truly indure long into the future for all to enjoy ten fold we are sure from this point forward we are sure.Yours Sincerely,Brian and Mary Cross London,Ontario,Doug and Brenda Martin Scarborough,Ontario,Harry and Darlene Tenhaaf and family London,Ontario.God bless you all and please look after yourselves for us okay.

~ BRIAN CROSS

My wife Barbara and I wish to extend our condolences to the family of Ewald Bierbaum on his passing. He was successful, but never forgot the little people. It was my privilege to have known him. He never failed to say hello, or relate a humorous story to me while I was on site at his Talbot Centre project. Perhaps, he already has plans drawn up for renovating heaven. Bob Kendall

~ Robert Kendall

My parents brought our family here in 1967 to the new Oakridge Park with Ford Administration when I was 9 and this is my 50th year here in London. Through all of those years I have seen all of the accomplishments from Westown Plaza, going to the Bavarian with my friends when coming of age, seeing all of the other buildings and complexes com to fruition and change the layout of London. From that the birth of other companies from your original. Thank you for all that you did, with class and grace and my deep condolences to your family and friends.

~ Pamela Gray

Bernie and Sue and family, your Dad was an amazing man whose accomplishments were those that many can only aspire to. His legacy will live on through you. He truly "lived long and prospered".

~ Bob Henderson

~Our condolences to Bernie, Greg, Carol and Family. We have done so many construction projects with your Dad over the years and we must say that your Dad's firm hand shake was good enough to" seal the deal". It was such a pleasure to contribute as part of a Construction Team in which he helped build a better London. Your Dad will be sadly missed by many. Richard, Lisa & Staff @ Crawford Air Ltd.

~ Richard & Lisa / Crawford Air Ltd.

Our sincere condolences Greg to you and your family. Our hearts go out to you at this difficult time.

~ Cynthia Hayek & Samantha Donaldson

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