John Keiper

KEIPER, John. On November 15, 2023, surrounded by family, John Keiper passed away in his 94th year after a long hospital stay. Loving husband of 65 years to Herta Keiper (née Heinz). Devoted father to John (Diane), Roland (Wendy), and Ed (Elissa). Proud and loving Opa to Graham, Ian, and Delaney Keiper, Sarah Wantola (Greg), and great-grandfather to Hayden and Liam Wantola. Predeceased by his sister Maria Egner and survived by his sister Elsa Sontag (Juergen). John experienced a number of health issues late in life, but strove to make the best of the challenges he faced so he could continue to share time with Herta, his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. John was born in Tscherwenka, the Kingdom of Yugoslovia, within the Danube Swabian German community, where he spent his childhood and attended primary school with his future spouse Herta. After the Second World War, at the age of 16, he and his family relocated to Bavaria, Germany. In 1951, as a 21 year old, he immigrated to Canada on his own to pursue a new life. Once he established himself in Toronto, he reconnected with Herta, who had immigrated to New York. They were married in 1958. John founded and operated a building contracting business for almost 40 years and enjoyed the satisfaction associated with building. More importantly, John’s focus and joy was his family and their well-being. He was always eager to provide encouragement and support. He actively participated in his grandchildren’s lives, including near daily interaction after his retirement. John enjoyed attending their sporting and extra-curricular activities, including travelling to out-of-town events. He truly loved being an Opa and his grandchildren loved him. His deep love, respect, and care for his wife Herta, was very apparent to all. He will be dearly missed by his family and remembered in their hearts forever. His family takes solace that he is now with God and is no longer suffering. During the past year, John received frequent supportive blood transfusions to treat aplastic anemia. The family would encourage a donation of blood for those now in need. Rest in peace Opa.

Visitation: Monday, November 20 5-8 pm at Paul O’Connor Funeral Home. Funeral service: Tuesday, November 21 10:30-11:30 am at Paul O’Connor Funeral Home Chapel. 1939 Lawrence Ave East, Scarborough M1R 2Y8, 416 751-7890. On-line condolences may be offered at: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/scarborough-on/john-keiper-11540470