Ben Lorenz

May 16th,1938-January 5th,2026

With his family by his side, Ben died the way he lived, on his own terms,

He is survived by his wife of 66 years Wendy, his sister in Germany Brigitte Mundt, his children Kirk Lorenz and his wife Heidi, Susan Lorenz and partner Gamaiel Williams. Dedicated Granddad to Taurel Lorenz, Cameron McKenzie and Jack Lorenz.

Born Benedikt Josef Lorenz in Poland on May 16, 1939.

At age 20, Ben famously made his way to Canada from Germany with $20.00 in his pocket. He taught himself English watching cartoons and reading comic books. One sunny afternoon spurred on by his friends he boldly approached a beautiful young English woman pushing a pram in a Toronto park. As it turned out the baby was her brother Bob and she agreed to tutor him.

Ben married “My Darling” Wendy on December 12, 1959; together after a quick stint in Vancouver they built a wonderful life raising their children in King City. 

Together they enjoyed many winters in Myrtle Beach with chosen family George and Ruth Darlington and Carole and Harry Clements. Ben took great pride in his homes, gardens and played hockey well into his sixties, he did push-ups until July, he always seemed invincible. He was a master camera technician, establishing York Camera Service, which he passed to his son upon retiring in 1998. He and Wendy took a leap of faith and followed Kirk and Heidi to Gravennhurst where they enjoyed walking the Wharf, the YMCA and a weekly lunch out, they found great joy in helping to raise their youngest grandchild, Jack. Ben could often be found on the porch and later the balcony in Gravenhurst drinking a cold beer with anyone he could talk into it.

Ben will be fondly remembered for his love of good meals with family, sense of humor, homemade cards, his notoriously frugal ways, and his eagerness to lend a hand. He was generous in every sense, we could always count on Dad, and we will miss him dearly. At his request, there will be no service, in lieu of flowers, donations to Andy’s House would be greatly appreciated.

Andy’s House Hospice Muskoka