2002 -
Introduction to the Kuntz Family by Mr. Paul Weigel.
�David Kuntz
emigrated from Wiesbaden Germany to seek a future in Canada in the 1830's. He
chose to settle in the bustling German speaking area of what is today Waterloo
County Ontario. In 1844, recognizing an opportunity, he founded a
brick-manufacturing enterprise that supplied the rapidly growing region. Never
one to miss an opportunity, he turned his beer-brewing hobby into a successful
business which ultimately surpassed and replaced the brick-manufacturing
enterprise The Kuntz brewery developed into one of the largest in Ontario. In
the 1920's, however, financial challenges caused by prohibition led to the
brewery being sold. The free enterprising spirit of the Kuntzes however was
not dead. After a period of time spent working for others, Oskar Kuntz started
an electroplating business. From its humble beginnings in 1948 Kuntz
Electroplating has become one of Kitchener�s premier employers.
In the 1950's
and 1960's outside the field of business, Bobby Kuntz, Oscar�s son, excelled
as an all-star player in the Canadian Football League.
The Kuntz
Family has shown vision, entrepreneurial spirit, philanthropic generosity, and
leadership.
We recognize
the Kuntz Family as outstanding German Pioneers of this region.
I am pleased
to introduce Elisabeth Kuntz, who will accept the German Heritage Pioneers
Award for 2002 on behalf of the whole family, past and present.�
Plaque
presented by Mr. Ernst Friedel.