Ingrid Bade (Prufer)

Ingrid Bade (Prufer) passed away peacefully in Huntsville, Ontario on April 14, 2026, at the age of 91.

She will be deeply missed by her loving husband Max Prufer, whom she married in 2021. She is also remembered by her daughter-in-law Anne Marie. Ingrid was a proud Oma to her grandchildren Alexander (Erika) and Marion, and a proud great-grandmother to Kai and Ren. She embraced her role as adopted “grandma” to Max’s family as well.

She was predeceased by her first husband Gerhardt Bade and her son Gordon Bade.

Ingrid was born on February 15, 1935, in Walsum, Germany, to Emma Klan and Albert Wegner. She was raised in a self-sufficient household where she learned the values of hard work, careful use of time, and respect for others — principles that guided her throughout her life.

In Germany, Ingrid trained as a hairdresser and after the 10-year work requirement, became a Master hairdresser. Here she also started her family, marrying Gerhardt Bade and having their son Gordon. In the mid 1960’s they emigrated to Canada and first settled in Toronto where Ingrid continued her profession and eventually after another move, she opened her own hairdressing salon in Keswick. She was known for her steady skill, professionalism, and warm, quiet presence with her clients.

Beyond her work, Ingrid’s lifelong passion was her dedication to handcrafted arts. She was highly skilled in traditional crafts including Hardanger embroidery, knitting, crochet, petit point, tapestry, and rug making. Her work, often created on fine linen or through intricate stitching, reflected countless hours of patience and care.

Ingrid also expressed her generosity through her craft. Throughout her life she took note of friends and acquaintances who might be cheered by a handmade gift for themselves or perhaps to welcome a new little one. Even as she aged she spent countless hours crafting knitted hats in many colours, which she freely gave to family, friends, and even those who came to work in her home.

An accomplished cook and baker, Ingrid contributed to church dinners and community gatherings, where she was known for her delicious meals and her reliability and willingness to help wherever needed.

With unwavering faith, Ingrid found solace in the knowledge that her journey here on earth had come to an end, and she was about to embark on a new heavenly part of being. 

Ingrid will be remembered for her quiet strength, disciplined nature, and generous spirit. Her legacy lives on in the many beautiful pieces she created and in the lives she touched through her kindness and care.

Burial will take place in the coming weeks at the Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery. Date and time to be announced.

For those who wish, and in lieu of flowers, donations in Ingrid's memory to a charity of your choosing would be welcomed.