Obituary of Zoltan Hodri

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Zoltan “Zoli” Hodri of Waterloo, who died held in the embrace of his loving wife, 4 daughters and fur baby Colby on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at the age of 65.

Zoltan was born to parents George (Dura) and Milka in Vršac (the former Yugoslavia) and immigrated with his parents to Canada in 1962. After first settling in Montreal, Zoltan and his parents would go on to put down roots in Kitchener, Ontario.

In 1980, Zoltan met the love of his life and his best friend, Katherine Hodri (nee Huegle) and they were fortunate to spend 43 and 1/2 wonderful years together. They shared a love for travel (especially Las Vegas), all things cars and Mexican food. Their love and partnership grew as they created their family and welcomed their 4 beautiful daughters, Jennifer, Andrea, Stephanie and Michelle.

They would go on to extend their family with sons-in-law, Jason, Derek, Matt and Alan, and grandchildren Landon (12), Wyatt (10), Celine (8), Ellis (7), Zoey (6), Serena (5) and Kinsley (2). Zoltan was so proud of being a husband, dad and papa. He loved to talk about his family and would proudly adorn his #1 dad and #1 papa shirts.

Predeceased by his father-in-law Bill Huegle (1994), his father George Hodri (2002) and his beloved brother-in-law Gary Huegle (2004). He is survived by his mother-in-law Jane Huegle and sister-in-law Kris Brunk. Zoltan has touched the lives of many and will be greatly missed by his extended family and friends.

Zoltan leaves behind the legacy of his business, Custom Gunnite 1995 Inc. His craftsmanship and skill were well-known around Waterloo Region and beyond, having worked on several landmarks, buildings, houses and pools. Zoltan had many connections and relationships with homeowners, property management companies and those within the industry, and he took pride in everything that he did.

Zoltan was passionate about a wide range of things including religion, politics, sports, history, travel, weather, body building, music, entertainment and food.

Zoltan’s courage and strength were at the forefront of his battle with cancer over the last year and a half. Despite the challenges he encountered, he faced his diagnosis with positivity and optimism until the very end. When he was continually knocked down, he got back up again, stronger and more motivated to go on. So much so, he continued to go to the gym during his treatment.

The family wishes to thank the team at the Hospice of Waterloo Region for their outstanding support, encouragement and care for our husband/dad/papa and for our family. 

For Zoli, family was his everything. He loved his time spent with his wife, daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren. He possessed a strong work ethic and was one the hardest working men ever. He approached his life with kindness, generosity, humour, silliness, and devotion. Saying goodbye to him has left a void in the family and the loss is immeasurable.

Friends and relatives are invited to a Visitation at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King St. S, Waterloo on Tuesday, October 29, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m and on Wednesday, October 30, 2024 from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. The Celebration of Life Service will be held in the funeral home’s chapel on Wednesday, October 30 at 11:00 a.m. with a reception to follow in the funeral home’s Fireside Reception Room. An interment will follow at Parkview Cemetery in Waterloo.

Condolences for the family and donations can be made to the Hospice of Waterloo Region or the Spinal CSF Leak of Canada Foundation and may be arranged through www.erbgood.com.