Klara Gnandt-Mirk, aged 88, passed away peacefully in her sleep on December 27th, 2023 in Oshawa, Ontario.

Born on April 13th, 1935 to Frank and Terezia (nee. Scheibli) Gnandt in Vallaj, Hungary, Klara's childhood was filled with struggles as she lost her mother at the age of 2. Klara spent her early years living in Hungary, Romania, Czechoslovakia and Germany as Europe was torn apart by WWII. After the war, her remaining family reunited in Southern Germany where she struggled each day to survive with her sister, brother and father. The family decided on Canada for a fresh start with Klara, her father, her brother Frank (wife Elfriede) all immigrating in 1950. After initially settling down roots in Raymond, Alberta working for a Hungarian farmer in the sugar beet fields, Klara moved to Toronto, Ontario in 1953 in order to be closer to her beloved sister, Anna and her husband (Ervin) who had immigrated from Germany. Klara met her husband in Toronto and married Thomas Mirk in 1987. Klara is predeceased by her parents, stepmother (Maria), spouse, and siblings Frank Gnandt and Anna Oesterle. She will be deeply missed by her brothers Erich (Doris) in BC and Ron (Heather) in Ontario, as well as by her nieces (Erica, Julia, and Stephanie), nephews (Richard, Frank and Edwin), and many close friends.

A celebration of life will commence at a later date and a cremation has taken place per her wishes.

The family thanks the Lakeridge Health Team and Traditions of Durham Care Home for providing exceptional care and comfort over the last year. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate a small donation towards the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.