KENNETH CHRISTIAN "KELLY" STRAUS

January 22, 2026

Kenneth Christian 'Kelly' Straus of Waterloo, formerly of Kincardine, died Thursday, Jan. 22, 2026, with Patricia Straus, his loving wife of 65 years, at his side, while reminiscing with their children. He was 87. Dad of Connie Bierschbach, Craig Straus (Cathy), and Corey Straus (Lori). Papa of Travis (Haley), Nathan (Ashley), Joshua (Thalia), Brett (Michelle), Michelle (Andrew), Khristopher, and Jonnathan; and Great-Papa of Lily. Brother of Grace, widow of Paul; Rita, widow of Peter; Anne, widow of Russ; Murray (Mary); and sister-in-law, Barb, widow of his brother, Don. Uncle Kelly of many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his siblings, Eileen (Chuck), Jean (Ron), Don, and Jim (Mary); and his parents, Fred and Irene Straus. Born in Kitchener, Kelly was an accomplished entrepreneur. He and Pat moved to Kincardine in the early 1980s, where they watched many sunsets at the beach, eating ice cream, and taking the grandkids to the Kincardine Scottish Pipe Band Saturday Night Parades. He also enjoyed watching and cheering for the Toronto Blue Jays with family and friends. After 40 years, they moved back to Waterloo to be close to family. Kelly will be especially missed for the Christmas joy he brought to many families for more than 40 years as the “best” Santa Claus. As per Kelly’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A gathering to remember Kelly will be held at a later date. The family thanks all the staff and volunteers at Hospice Waterloo Region Gies Centre, Cook Family Residence, as well as his many doctors, nurses, and PSWs. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to Hospice Waterloo Region would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Donations may be sent directly through the website at https://www.hospicewaterloo.ca/ or arranged through the Erb and Good Funeral Home, Waterloo, at 519-745-8445 or on the website at https://erbgood.com/.