Eric Gunter Maya passed away peacefully on September 12, 2025 at the age of 94. He is lovingly remembered by Marie, his wife of 67 years, whom he absolutely adored.
He was a loving father to Kim (David) and Bev (Chris), a grandfather to Ryan (Sarah), Bryce, and Maya, and a great-grandfather to Xavier. He was predeceased by his mother, Marie; stepfather, Fritz; and siblings: Gustav, Irmgard, Arnold, Irving, Heinz, Gunter, and George. He is survived by his in-laws: Lenore, Betty, Stewart, Renata, Bernice, as well as numerous nieces and nephews in Canada and Germany, many of whom called him their “favorite Uncle”.
Eric was born in Mertinsdorf, Germany on December 8, 1930. Prior to moving to Canada in 1952, Eric became an accomplished accordion player and electrician. After moving to Canada, learning English, and continuing his electrical career, he met and married Marie in 1958. Together, they worked hard to build a full life of family and adventure. The early days were spent in Levack, where they welcomed their 2 daughters, Kim and Bev. In 1967, the family moved to London, where, for a few years, Eric operated a heating business. A better opportunity arose, and he went back to university to become an electrical teacher. This career change brought the family to Kingsville, where he worked at the local high school for 14 years. During this time, summers were spent in Huntsville building the family cottage. After retirement in 1985, Eric and Marie made the cottage their permanent home. During these years, winters were spent in Mexico, where, once again, hard work resulted in a family winter getaway. They went on long beach walks and had many visits with friends and their expanding family. For the last 10 years, Eric and Marie lived in Huntsville full-time.
Eric had a zest for life, embraced new adventures, and worked hard to continuously improve life for himself and his family. He could fix and make anything and never shied away from putting his guests to work. Together with Marie, they built loving homes in Canada and Mexico, which became the focal point for family gatherings filled with accordion playing, singing, sharing a beer and good conversation. His happiest times were spent with his family by his side, with Marie as his constant companion.
His final days were spent peacefully in the Huntsville Hospice with Marie, Kim, and Bev by his side, holding his hand, telling stories, and playing accordion music for him. He is deeply missed by his family and will always hold a special place in our hearts. The staff at Huntsville Hospice were wonderful in his final days, providing a calm, loving environment. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hospice Huntsville in his loving memory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Billingsley Funeral Home on Saturday, November 8 from 1-3 pm with speeches to be said at 2 p.m. EST in Huntsville Ontario.
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