Ursula Rodrigues
RODRIGUES, Ursula – Of Guelph, passed away peacefully at Hospice Wellington on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at the age of 87 after a short battle with cancer.
Beloved mother of Jurgen (Kim), and Yvan (Sarah), and predeceased by her daughter Ulrike, Ursula cherished her grandchildren Ethan, Ava, Seth, and Verdi. Ursula took great pride in her independence, especially after purchasing her own home, where she lived happily and on her own terms for the last 30 years of her life. She found immense joy in her garden, which she tended with care and creativity, always delighted by the compliments from neighbours.
Ursula’s vibrant spirit shone through her many passions. She loved playing table tennis at the Senior Centre, where she also served as treasurer for many years. A fierce competitor, she took great pleasure in recounting how she and her partner would routinely outplay their male opponents. When table tennis became more difficult, she turned her attention to knitting, joining the Craft Club and spending Friday mornings in good company, knitting socks for those in need and sweaters for loved ones.
A lifelong creator, Ursula explored many forms of artistic expression, including sewing, crocheting, macramé, stained glass, jewellery making, rug hooking, and cross-stitch. Her true passion, however, was watercolour painting. Taken up in retirement, it became her calling. She found deep fulfillment painting the flowers from her garden and connected with a supportive online community that brought her friendship and encouragement in her later years.
Ursula was born in Feldkirch, Austria, in 1939, just before the onset of the Second World War. She often shared memories of her childhood in a time of scarcity, raised alongside her mother and sister and educated by nuns. Despite the hardships, she spoke fondly of those years, reflecting that when everyone had nothing you could still find happiness because there was no one to be envious of.
At 19, Ursula set out in search of adventure, moving to London, England, to improve her English after training as a secretary. While her time as an au pair proved disappointing, it was there she met a young man from Goa, Leo, whom she soon married. Together they began their family and, following a visit to Canada House in London, made the decision to immigrate. They arrived in Toronto with their two young children, Ulrike and Jurgen, beginning a new chapter.
Ursula initially stayed home to raise her children, but once they were in school, she was determined to build her independence. She pursued roles that allowed her to use her fluency in German, working as an executive secretary with Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz. Always eager to grow, she later trained as a real estate agent. After the arrival of her third child, Yvan, she once again paused her career before returning to the workforce. Over the years, she held a variety of roles, including printer and gas station attendant, before finding her stride as an events coordinator at the University of Guelph. There, she thrived, embracing both the responsibility of the role and the friendships she formed.
A lifelong learner, Ursula developed an interest in spirituality and psychology, which led her to pursue courses at the local college and ultimately earn a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Guelph. This achievement reflected her determination and belief that she could accomplish anything she set her mind to.
In her later years, Ursula created a life rich in routine and connection. Painting with friends on Tuesdays, Scrabble on Thursdays, knitting on Fridays, and Saturday Koffee Klatch with family brought her great joy and fulfillment.
When Ursula was diagnosed with cancer, she chose not to pursue treatment, preferring to avoid the burden of aggressive care and to spend her remaining time with dignity. She was deeply grateful for the love and support of her family and friends in her final days and faced her passing with acceptance and peace. In keeping with her wishes, there will be no visitation or service.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at Guelph General Hospital and Hospice Wellington for their compassionate care.
In memory of Ursula, donations may be made to Stepping Stone (fundraise@steppingstonegw.com), a cause close to her heart.
Arrangements entrusted to the WALL-CUSTANCE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL 519-822-0051 / www.wallcustance.com.
A tree will be planted in memory of Ursula Rodrigues in the Wall-Custance Memorial Forest.