Dieter passed away August 15th, 2024 at the age of 77 in Alliston at Matthews House Hospice. Born July 8 th 1947 in Claustahl Germany, he immigrated to Canada with his mother Elisabeth in 1952. Dieter was a natural athlete and enjoyed many sports. An MVP football player in high school, he met his life partner Ann there. Together they travelled the world, and opened their hearts and home to family and friends. Hosting pool parties, family reunions and weddings, all were welcome. Dieter’s passion for cooking kept visitors well fed and their spectacular gardens provided an unrivalled backdrop to any gathering. A teacher, coach and principal, Dieter was a highly respected educator for 30 years, 4 in the Borough of York and 26 in Simcoe County. Dieter was a kind and thoughtful man, always putting others before himself. Everybody loved Dieter. The hole in our hearts is immeasurable. Dieter is survived by his devoted wife of 54 years Ann, his brothers Mark (Nancy), Jeff (Lise), brother-in-law Paul (Suzanne), nieces Paula (Paul), Carolyn (Adam), Katie, Michelle, Jen and nephew Joel (Angela). As Dieter wished, there will be no funeral. Celebrate his life, reflecting on cherished memories. In memory of Dieter, donations can be made to the Canadian Liver Foundation. Condolences and memories may be left for the family at www.RodAbramsFuneralHome.com.
Paul Stouffer says
Dear Ann,
Dieter meant so much to so many people, innately sharing his kindness and wisdom with those around him. We both experienced the love and strong bond you and Dieter had – a wonderful example for all to aspire to.
Love,
~ Suzanne and Paul
To my sister Ann,
Here are the lyrics to the song I wrote for you and performed at Dieter’s family tribute:
Hymn To Peace
Leave your worries behind,
Let them heal themselves.
Answers are there before you,
Open your heart. Believe.
The road is there before you
to follow and abide.
Listen to what is around you.
This is the Hymn to Peace.
Let your soul be your guide.
Let the light shine upon you.
Listen for the answer,
This is the Hymn to Peace.
Hopefully this will bring some comfort to you.
With love,
~ Your brother Paul
John Stone says
Sincere condolences from the Stones.
I was a privileged student of Mr Psutka’s at Tottenham Public School of the’70s.
I was always honoured to have Dieter visit at the auto body shop for his car repair.
He made me feel like his friend and shared many stories from back in the day. All from the teachers perspective. I felt those were real man to man moments.
There’s nothing better than earning the respect of those you respect the most.
Nathan says
Dieter was a wonderful, engaging and thoughtful uncle who I will miss greatly. Dieter touched so many in his career, and and in his family and friends! We will miss you Dieter and we will always remember your kind and positive demeanour.
Bert and Jean Platt says
Dieter was a wonderful friend and an exceptional teaching partner. I’ll always remember the sign on his desk that read, “The Buck Stops Here.” He was fiercely competitive and consistently engaged in numerous sports with his students, who took immense pride in being part of “Psutka’s Stuka’s.” You will be profoundly missed!
Anna Van Maanen says
Ann,
We are so sorry for your loss. Dieter was a wonderful person. We cannot imagine what you are going through, but please lean on your friends and family who love you. They will want to be there for you at this difficult time.
Anna, Chris and Matthew
Karen Weldrick (Marchand) says
So so sorry for your loss ! Dieter was my grade 7 Teacher many years ago and made a huge impact on my life one of the best teachers i ever had remembering always ! Saddened by this news
Barb MacIntosh says
Dear Ann, I send my sincere condolences. How wonderful for you to have spent so many years with such an outstanding human being. The tributes that have been given for Dieter are truly touching. His mark on both his students and his colleagues are testament to the kind of outstanding person he was.
Sending love at this most difficult time.
Barb MacIntosh
Dave and Nancy Wilson says
Dear Ann
Nancy and I are very sad to hear of Deiter’s passing and our family is so very fortunate to have been part of your and Dieter’s devotion as teachers and continuing guidance advocates within our community.
We moved to Hockley Village with the hope that we could be part of Mono Adjala public School.
Dieter was the principal and Ann was part of the team of teachers that we came to know and love so much.
The entire experience was just like great big happy family.
The tributes that I read, remind us of friends and truly devoted staff that gave our family so much, names return, along with memories, our respect and gratitude lives forever.
Thank you Ann and Thank you Dieter!
You will always be with us!
Dave, Nancy, Jeff, Kyle and Lindsay Wilson
Dave Nancy, Jeff, Kyle, Lindsay
Andrew Wallace says
I would like to express my condolences to Mrs. Psutka and family of Mr. Psutka. Like so many who left messages, Mr. Psutka was also a teacher of mine at Tottenham Public School. For me, Mr. Psutka was one of those cherished teachers you never forgot as life moved forward. I was never the scholary type who borderline detested school, however, Mr. Psutka had a way of making school more ‘bearable’, should I say – enjoyable (?) for me. His kind, disciplined nature towards me served me well throughout my life and career. I was unable to attend that class reunion and am disappointed I missed the opportunity to “thank” Mr. Psutka. It is heartwarming yet unsurprising to read what former students have shared, it is a true testimony to his lasting legacy as an educator.
Very sincerely, (An)Drew Wallace
Bonnie and Ken Pratt says
Ann, we are so sorry to learn of Dieter’s death. He certainly left an impact on so, so many lives in the community. 77 years on earth for Dieter were well used in living, giving and loving. We hope your family from Viet Nam were able to get here to say goodbye. Blessings to you and all the love in our hearts.
Bernice Arnold says
My condolences to Ann and the family on this sad, sad loss. I worked as a volunteer at the Beeton Public School while my son David was a student there, and Dieter was the most supportive person towards his staff, students and all volunteers, I had ever met. He always took the time to ask how everyone was and how things were going. He was the ultimate not only as an educator, a leader, but as a human being. Our hearts and prayers are with you.
Kevin Holmes says
I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mr. Psutka. He was my Grade 8 teacher at Tec South. He was a man with great integrity and respect and he passed that down to his students. My thoughts are with the entire family at this difficult time.
Kevin Holmes.
Madeleine Temmer says
I’m so sorry to hear of Dieter’s passing. He was a mentor, a friend and a wonderful person. I learned so much from him and I must say that his mentorship set the tone for my career as a principal. He was kind, caring and a had a great sense of humour. It was always a joy to be in his company. He will be remembered fondly by all the staff, students and community members that had the pleasure of knowing him.
Lisa Longman says
I was very fortunate to have him as my teacher at Tottenham Public. He was my favourite teacher. I have many fond memories of him. My sincere condolences to the family.
Kymberley Bellfoy Ing says
Mr. Psutka was my grade-seven teacher around 1980. No one knew, but life was very difficult for me during that time, and he was the one adult who noticed and encouraged me. I will always be grateful to him. Sending warm wishes to his family.
Terry Brown says
I am very sorry to hear of Mr. Psutka’s passing. He was one of my very favourite teachers at TPS. He and Mr. Platt came to our “Grade 8” reunion at the Tottenham Legion back in 2016. We had so much fun reconnecting and reminiscing! Mr. Psutka had photos from sports teams, school plays. etc that he brought along so share with us. It was amazing! He was so admired and will be greatly missed.
Dawn Dedels says
Dear Ann,
I’m so sorry to hear of Dieter’s passing. It was wonderful to work with Dieter. You always worked with him, not for him. A calm, kind and fun man. He always had a twinkle in his eye. My heart breaks with you Ann.
Elaine Cooper says
I am so sorry to hear of Dieter’s passing. I was so fortunate to benefit from his leadership as my principal. He combined strong educational values with kindness and fun. Thanks for the memories Dieter.
Elaine Cooper
Caroline Gilbert says
Our family was saddened to hear the news of Deiter’s passing. Our parents, Helen & John, valued and enjoyed their decades long friendship with Deiter & Ann. Deiter was a steadfast friend to our dad, regularly checking in with visits and phone calls. As an educator & colleague his reputation was to be envied. Our thoughts are with you, Ann, and your families.
Sincerely,
Caroline, Laura, Matthew & Helen Gilbert
Candace Walmsley says
Dieter was truly an excellent Principal at Adjala Central Public School but, even more so he was a very kind, caring and friendly gentleman. It was a pleasure and an honour to have known him.
We are very sorry for your loss.
Candace and Michael Walmsley
Joe and Mary Strever says
Dieter was an understanding principal, a true gentleman.
Barbara Heagy (McQuarrie) says
I was so sad and shocked to hear of Dieter’s passing and offer my condolences to you and family, Ann. I loved Dieter. What a great principal he was, both for my daughters who attended Adjala Central School and for me when I became a teacher and began working with him and Betty as administration in our school. He was kind, gentle, fun, and simply the best!
Greg McKenna says
I was a teacher at Beeton Central School and Dieter was my Principal. I was always impressed by his calm nature no matter what the situation was at the time. He was a kind and thoughtful leader. Our staff had great respect for this man. Dieter has been a positive influence to many people.
Shelley Apa says
My heart is breaking. Ann I can’t even begin to say how much Dieter was loved by all. He was a quiet man and a wonderful brother in law. I have so many happy memories of time spent together over the last 50 years. You could always count on Dieter to be the one to take it all in his own stride and encourage everyone in what they where doing in their lives. I will cherish the memories of time together over all these years. I know his memory will live on in you and the family and friends who had the privilege of knowing Dieter. I’m so glad he was a big part of my life. To you Ann, Tony and I send our Love and you know we are only a phone call away whenever you need us. Sending you big LOVE. ❤ xoxo
Dawn Braks says
Mr Psutka was one of my most memorable teachers. I was also in his grade 8 class at Tec south. My sincere condolences to the family.
Charla Graham says
He was my grade 8 teacher in 1986. One of the best teachers I had, I have very fond memories of that year. My condolences to the family. ♥️
Anne Marie & David Dineen says
Ann and family – Our condolences on Dieter’s death. He was such a joyous and generous man; always willing to share his knowledge, his joy in life, and his many travel experiences.
It’s natural that he’ll be missed a great deal.
David & Anne Marie Dineen
Lloyd and Zalina Teelucksingh says
We were very shocked when we learnt about Dieter’s leaving us…..he was a super individual and he was willing to communicate with everyone when assistance was needed .l have had the opportunity to have him in the Tottenham School …..he was highly loved and respected with the students, teachers and parents…
We now send our Condolonses to you Ann because you have lost Dieter but we know your love and strength will keep you well.
Taria van Weesenbeek says
Our family, Taria, Dietrich, Patrick and Emma send our condolences to you Ann, and your family. We think of the wonderful memories that you both gave us, from impromptu “pool parties” with chocolate chips, apple slices and other goodies for the kids, to hosting Olga’s 70th birthday and catering Kaarina’s 60th. Dieter, you did everything with style. We will miss your warm welcomes. Safe travels Mr. Psutka, love and hugs.
Gary Teelucksingh says
Mr Psutka was a great teacher and someone who had a positive effect on so many students including myself. His love of sports was well known and those of us who were lucky enough to have him as a coach benefited from his constant positivity and motivation. Sending condolences to Ann and the rest of the family. May he rest in peace.
Brian and Kaarina Brooks says
From Brian and Kaarina:
It’s been great knowing you Dieter since 1974. We have had some great times at sporting events, music and entertainment events etc. Great work habits. Thanks for the use of your pool etc. We will miss you.
Sharon Cook says
Dear Ann
Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We are honoured to have known Dieter over many years as a wonderful educator, coach, and friend. He was simply the best!
Sharon & Harold Cook
Carsten Brandt says
Rest in peace. You were a great teacher to me and a great principal to my kids.
Karlene Doyle says
Condolences to you Mrs Psutka and your family, Mr Psutka was one of the best teachers I ever had at Tottenham Public School, he was a down to earth well liked teacher and always took time with his students. Back in 1974 I think that was the year he presented me with the most improved student award in my Grade 4/5 split class. I still remember that day and was I surprised a memory I will not forget. Rest in peace Mr Psutka.
Moira Milne-Brandt says
Mr. Psutka was the real deal. He genuinely seemed to love teaching and the students who he served. Being around him was a delight, his positivity and admiration of positivity, grace and talent was remarkable. Thank you for sharing your gift of teaching with us. We will hold onto our memories of you.
Our condolences for your loss of this great man.
David Anderson says
First, Ann, while it has been a long time since our paths crossed, please know that we are thinking of you at this difficult time. We are shocked and saddened to hear of Dieter’s passing.
So many memories! Dieter was an outstanding teacher and a fine person. He helped me immensely when green as grass, I embarked on my teaching career. Along with Mike, Wally, Bert, Bruce and others he showed me the ropes, ever the fun companion and role model. He was always someone I admired and wished to emulate. Corn roasts, hockey drafts, Friday nights “off the Beeton path”, Oktoberfest – I have so many remembrances of fun times with Dieter.
Students loved Mr. Psutka, wanting to be in his class and be coached by him. For them also he was someone to look up to and I know many of them would say that Dieter was their favourite teacher ever.
He was an amazing man and he will be missed.
David and Anne Anderson
Iroquois, Ontario
Tim P. Banks says
Sad to hear of the passing of a much-respected teacher during my years at TPS in the 70’s. I’ll always remember his grin of amusement whenever I’d say something off the wall to exasperate him. He was a no-nonsense teacher, who, as others have mentioned, commanded respect – fair, but tough when he had to be. His handling of the class tough guy when he first arrived at TPS remains legendary among those of us, who were there to witness it. As teachers go, I always put Mr. Psutka in the “cool guy” category. RIP, Sir.
Andrea says
Of all my childhood teachers Mr. Psutka is the one I adored the most. He was genuinely the kindest man who really cared about all of us students. He was an amazing coach and not only did he believe in all of us but he helped us believe in ourselves and know our self worth. I was so blessed to have him in my life and even 53 years later, I’ll never forget him.
Best wishes to the family
Andrea Marzahl
Darlene Friesen says
Dear Anne,
There are no words that help with your loss.
Everyone enjoyed working with Dieter, such a fine leader.
Know others are thinking of you at this time.
With sympathy.
Velma and Richard Wace says
Sincere sympathy to the family. Dieter was a huge part of our family in Tottenham, at Tottenham PS and we have many fond memories. I also was part of a women’s group who had the pleasure of being catered by Dieter and Ann. Rest in Peace.
Velma and Richard Wace
Michele Tomlinson says
Our deepest condolences
The Tomlinson Family
Shelley Horan(nee Bolton says
Mrs Psutka,
Thinking of you and sending my deepest condolences.
Mr Psutka was an amazing teacher at Tottenham Public and I know my dad (Mr Bolton) enjoyed working with him as well . Keeping you in my thoughts
Corina Matts (Broome) says
I’m so saddened to hear of Mr. Psutkas passing. He was my teacher in Grade 3/4 and Grade 8 at Tottenham Public School. He always had a sheepishly smile and a soft approach for teaching that drew students into becoming the best we could be! He thoroughly enjoyed PE and I recall him being a driving force for track and field at our school. A group of us girls (5 past students) popped into his place 3 years back to say hello, but we missed seeing him. So unfortunate.
I send my sincere condolences to Ann.
Nancy Barton says
Mrs. Psutka,
Our thoughts are with you during this sad and difficult time.
The Barton family.
David, Sherry, Ken and Nancy
Karen McGregor says
I was lucky enough to have Mr. Psutka as a teacher at Tecumseth South and he was one of the best teachers I ever had. He commanded respect and a drive to do your best and in return he received that back from his students. He impacted so many lives as a teacher, mentor, coach, and principal Mr Psutka’s influence left the world a better place. Sending my deepest condolences to the family. ❤️
Linda Armstrong says
So sorry to hear of Dieter’ passing. He was a terrific principal after many years as a great teacher. I was lucky enough to work in the same schools for many years. He helped me to get into supply teaching which I enjoyed for 14 years after 34 years of classroom work. He will be missed. I love to tell the story of him personally making a birthday cake for a fellow teacher.
Grace Kempers says
There are not enough words to express the impact Mr. Psutka had in my life. I was a student of his for grade 3 and 8 back in the 70’s. He took me under his wing and coached me in track and volleyball which I went on to play for many years. Mr. Psutka was so in tune with all of his students we could never figure out how he knew everything that happened in our lives but as an adult I now think it was just because he was present and cared so much. We kept in touch many years into my adulthood and I always loved getting one of his Christmas cards and learning of his travels and expanding family. He will be missed by so many people he touched over the years. Rest in peace and know that you were cherished and loved and will live in our hearts forever.
Elsie & Malcolm Cleghorn says
Dear Ann. We are saddened to hear of Deiter’s passing. I have great memories of Dieter when teaching with him at TPS. He was one of the good guys. Please accept our deepest condolences.
Nicci and George Barr says
I was very fortunate to have Dieter as my principal, and Dieter and Ann as our neighbours. He was an incredibly kind leader, and a heck of a lot of fun! His retirement party from Beeton PS was one for the books.
Between Dieter and Ann, my blackjack game got better, and the parties that they hosted were wonderful!
Thinking of you Ann, and sending our sincere condolences. He will be missed.
Allison Curtis says
Mr. Psutka was my grade 8 teacher at Tec South. He was my favorite teacher. He always said it took me till about 10am to wake up and start to pay attention. I will always smile when I hear his name. Sending love, hugs and prayers to all that knew Mr.Psutka ❤️ xo
Laura says
I am so sorry for your loss Anne, Mr. Pstuka was an inspiration to me as a student at Tec South, he was the most wonderful Coach and leader anyone could ask for. He inspired me to be a better volleyball player annd person and his love for the game and offering up his beach court at your beautiful home when we were younger was so wonderful. Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. Xo Laura Clouthier ( Bell)
Lori Phillipo says
Ann,
I am so sorry for your loss. I have many fond memories of you and Dieter accepting all of Don’s family into your home as if we were all your family too.
Lori (Newton)
Susan Calder says
Ann and family,
Dieter was a wonderful and considerate leader who received respect easily, never demanding it. I enjoyed the privilege of working with him. My thoughts are with you and your loved ones.
Mike Dennis says
In 1980, Mr Psutka was my grade 8 teacher at Tottenham Public School and left a lasting impression. You will receive many condolences, and if you were to take the kindest of those, polish it beyond perfection, then that would be the sentiment I wish to express. I am thankful for the many great memories that will remain. It is the good stuff that lasts.
Tran Duc Quyen says
You are a wonderful Dad in our lives and we were so lucky to spend sweet time with you at the end of your life.
Gary and Jo says
We have many fond memories of Dieter who, with Ann, welcomed us to their home for movies, walks, and even an art sale. So many cherished times on biking trips that we will never forget. It is with sincere sadness that we say goodbye to Dieter, a gentle, big hearted man. Please accept our condolences, Ann, in this difficult time.
Sheri Sallows says
Mrs Psutka,
Thinking of you & sending sincere sympathies.
Mr Psutka was my Grade 3 teacher and to this day remains one of my most treasured & memorable teachers! Years after being his student, he always had time for a hello & a chat if you were lucky enough to cross paths.
I will remember him well!
Lynn says
The world will morn in the lose of a wonderful man who was generous of spirit and generous of time. He always wanted to know what was happening in my life. The world is a little dimmer. Thinking of all you as you adjust to new normal of missing this beautiful man.
Love Lynn and Ken
Kathi Hall says
Sending love, hugs and our deepest condolences to Ann and the family. Dieter was an amazing man and I greatly appreciate all he did for our family. His support to Mom, Don and myself was immeasurable. Thank you Dieter and Ann for lovingly hosting many years of Snyder reunions.
All our love David and Kathi
Bob & Pat Jackson says
Ann
Our sincere condolences for your loss.
We fondly remember a special birthday gathering at your home for our Mother.
Mike MacEachern says
Very sad to hear of Dieter’s passing. Our sincere condolences to Ann and the entire family. We will cherish all the fun times together and remember his kind and gentle nature. Passing on all our love to Ann during this very difficult time. Sincerely, Mike, Tracey and Lynda
John Elvish says
A true gentleman. He will be greatly missed.