In Loving Memory of Christa Hentsch (née Grünberg)
Christa Hentsch (née Grünberg) passed away peacefully on June 17, 2026, at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to family.
Born in Berlin, Germany, on August 26, 1933, Christa lived through extraordinary times. As a young woman, she met the love of her life, Ben Hentsch, through a newspaper correspondence (Heiratsanzeigen) that spanned the Atlantic Ocean. Ben, an Austrian immigrant working as a farm labourer in southwestern Ontario, and Christa exchanged letters that blossomed into a lifelong partnership. In 1957, Christa made the courageous journey to Canada, where she and Ben built a life together and raised their family both in Toronto and Tottenham.
Christa was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ben. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Georg and his wife Ingrid, and Helene and her husband Andy; her grandchildren, Ruby, Stefan, Erika, and Hanna; and her great-grandson, Dominic, who brought her much joy.
She held a special place in her heart for her niece, Gerti, and Gerti’s husband, Tony, along with their large and loving family of children and grandchildren. Despite the distance that sometimes separated them, those family bonds remained important throughout her life.
Christa was known for her independence, determination, and spirited nature. She loved cooking and baking for family and friends, tending her garden, and knitting for those she cared about. Whether preparing a favourite meal, sharing baked treats, or creating something with her knitting needles, she expressed her love through the work of her hands.
She enjoyed the companionship and activities of the Danube Seniors Leisure Centre, where she maintained friendships and remained engaged with her community.
Those who knew Christa will remember her as a spunky, resilient woman who faced life’s challenges with courage and determination. Having journeyed from postwar Berlin to Canada as a young woman, she built a life defined by hard work, family, and perseverance. Her warmth, humour, and strength will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
From Berlin to Tottenham, Christa’s journey was one of courage, hope, and love—a story that continues through the generations of family she leaves behind.
Her family takes comfort in the many memories she leaves behind and in the example of a life well lived.
May she rest in peace.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday June 26, 2026 from 1pm-3pm in the Cliffside Hall at Rod Abrams Funeral Home, 1666 Tottenham Rd., Tottenham 905-936-3477. A graveside interment of ashes will immediately follow at St. James Cemetery, Colgan, 2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline. Online condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
As every flower fades and as all youth
Departs, so life at every stage,
So every virtue, so our grasp of truth,
Blooms in its day and may not last forever.
Since life may summon us at every age
Be ready, heart, for parting, new endeavor,
Be ready bravely and without remorse
To find new light that old ties cannot give.
In all beginnings dwells a magic force
For guarding us and helping us to live.
Serenely let us move to distant places
And let no sentiments of home detain us
~ Hermann Hesse
Service
Celebration of Life
Rod Abrams Funeral Home
1666 Tottenham Road
Friday June 26, 2026
1:00pm - 3:00pm
Graveside Interment Service
St. James Cemetery, Colgan
2118 Adjala Tecumseth Townline, Tottenham, ON L0G 1W0
3:15pm
Kathie (Hartley) Chiu says
I was so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing. I remember her so fondly from all those years ago growing up in Long Branch and the times I spent at your home playing with Helen. She was such a lovely, kind person.
One small memory that has stayed with me all these years was the day I noticed Helen’s bed had what looked to me like a giant, soft pillow covering it. I had never seen anything like it before and learned it was a duvet — although I can’t remember now what your mom called it! It’s funny the little moments that remain with us and bring back memories of people who touched our lives.
Sending my heartfelt condolences to Helen, Georg, and the whole family. May your memories of your mom bring you comfort in the days ahead. You are all in my prayers.