Obituary of Joachim Kuhnigk
It is with great sadness, we announce the sudden passing of Joachim “Achim” (Ace, John) Paul Kuhnigk on March 25, 2026, at the age of 84. He is now reunited with his beloved daughter, Julie Kuhnigk-Horvat.
Achim will be profoundly missed by his devoted wife of 60 years, Rosemary Audet-Kuhnigk. Cherished by his daughter Christina Kuhnigk, and son-in-law, Carlos Caneca. Forever in the hearts of his brother, Manfred Kuhnigk, his sister-in-law, Helga, his sister-in-law, Barbel Kuhnigk, along with many nieces and nephews in Germany. He will also be lovingly remembered by his sister-in-law, Anne Audet-Giroux, and his nieces and nephews in Canada and the United States. He was predeceased by his loving parents, Joseph and Maria, his brothers Eberhardt and Albrecht, as well as his sister Doris and Walter Tippl-Kuhnigk.
Achim graduated from Brock University in 1970 and went on to build a long and dedicated career of over 30 years with Atlas Steels. He later served as Sales Manager for Steel Industries Inc. for 12 years. Reflecting on this role, he said with pride, “I am proud to say, here is a German working for an American company as the Canadian Sales Manager”. He also shared his knowledge by teaching evening Marketing classes at Niagara College. A man of strong faith and community spirit, he was a choir member at St. Kevin’s Church for 10 years and volunteered at the church’s food bank as a safety coordinator. He will be remembered for his strength, his warm sense of humour, his love of cooking, and his passion for gardening. Achim had a remarkable ability to bring out the best in others and could always make you smile! His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the WELLAND FUNERAL HOME, CREMATION AND RECEPTION CENTRE, 827 East Main Street, Welland. A Celebration of Life service will be held at St. Kevin’s Church, 303 Niagara Street at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 18th, 2026. In lieu of flowers, donations made to the Canadian Cancer Society is greatly appreciated by the family.
