Karl Heinz Leber, an incurable optimist, lost his hold on life from end stage Parkinson's disease on Feb 4, 2024. Born November 1, 1949 in Mainz, Germany to parents Frieda (Schombert) Leber and Mathias Leber, the family emigrated to Preston, Ontario in 1952 where he grew up. Karl in his 75th year had a full life. He loved doing business, his family, and his friends. He was an inspiration for all. His tenacity won’t be forgotten.
Karl graduated from Ryerson in 1972 in Business Administration - marketing component. He started his career at Eaton's contract sales; selling office furniture. He enjoyed a long career selling commodities – office furniture, liquidation of same and other excess products, cottage resorts in pieces and lastly prefabricated cottages.
His love of business kept him selling in spite of Parkinson's disease and limited hearing. He leaves behind his much loved family - wife Lois (nee McHolm), son Kirt (Stacey), daughter Kristy (Sean), stepdaughter Amy (Kyle), and Kara (predeceased). He was known as “Opa” to Kirt's children Derek and Brooke Leber, and “Karl” to Lois’s granddaughters Isla and Olivia Roberts. He is remembered by brother Fred (Cathy), nieces Cindy (Lloyd) and Stacey (Brendan), sisters in-law Doreen and Kathryn McHolm, Lynda Brown and many nieces and nephews from Lois’s large extended family.
His family are thankful for the excellent care from Dr. Heather Laakso, Dr. Blaine Foell, PSW’s from Paramed and CarePartners, Bayshore nurses, Home and Community Care staff and lastly the caring staff and volunteers of Mariposa House Hospice Orillia.
Cremation has occurred, at Karl’s request and a celebration of his life will be held in the spring for family, friends and neighbours.
If wished, memorial donations may be made to Mariposa House Hospice or St Paul’s United Church Orillia.