Obituary of Memet Neziri

Memet Neziri, aged 84, passed away on Sunday November 17, 2024. He was a beloved father, husband, and friend who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Memet was born on January 12, 1940, in Mollaj (Dvoran), Albania, where he spent his childhood and teen years working alongside his family on their farm up until the age of 19. He then served three years in the military during the communist regime in Albania. In 1965, during the harsh dictatorship, he escaped Albania alongside two of his cousins and two of his close friends, to Greece for nine months before making their way to Canada for a better life.

He first settled in Toronto, Ontario after a month-long trip from Greece to Canada via Ship. With help from some friends from Greece, he started his life in Toronto, working at the Toronto Airport. In 1977, he got married and moved to Kitchener, Ontario, where he worked as a Steel Worker at Massey Ferguson for 19 years. Throughout his career, he was known for his hard work, dedication, and passion for helping others.

Being far away from his family and not being able to go back until the communist regime ended in 1991, it was his dedication to keep the Albanian tradition, language and culture alive while building a life for him and his family. He started an Albanian Community in Kitchener, in which he was the president for many years. The community gathered all Albanians within Kitchener to celebrate our history and culture of Albania and started the first program for children to learn to speak the Albanian language. The community was also a big part of helping new refugees from Kosovo settle in Kitchener during the war between Kosovo and Serbia in 1999.

But more than anything, Memet was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved spending time with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories, playing games, and watching their favorite TV shows. He was always there to offer guidance, support, and encouragement, no matter what challenges they faced.

In his free time, Memet enjoyed planting vegetables in his garden, and was always eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with others. He was an active member of the Albanian community, volunteering for various causes and organizations.

Memet is survived by his loving wife, Xhezije, his children, Engjell (Valbona), Axhire, Aferdita (Elvin), and his grandchildren, Angelina, Ardian, Amilia, Eliora, Alivianna and Emerson. His memory will be cherished by all who knew him.

A Visitation will be held at the Erb & Good Family Funeral Home, 171 King. St. S, Waterloo on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The Funeral Service will be held in the funeral home’s chapel on Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. Interment to follow at Williamsburg Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, condolences for the family and donations to the Alzheimer Society of Waterloo Wellington may be arranged through www.erbgood.com.