OUR FAMILY CARING FOR YOURS, SINCE 1958.

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For over 60 years the Zlepnig family has served the greater Ottawa community dating back to the humble beginnings of the Southway Motel in 1958 when first generation Canadians, Peter and Theresia Zlepnig built a modest 7 unit motel.  As Ottawa grew so did the Zlepnig family business.  Bill (son) and Louisa Zlepnig guided the property through a series of  expansions that culminated in a full service Hotel with 170 guest rooms, Shallows Restaurant, meeting rooms & banquet facilities.

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Enter the third generation. Bill & Louisa have now passed down the Southway legacy to their sons, Fred & Stephen and their respective wives, Karen & Leslie. Together, they are transforming the Southway into their Waterford brand of seniors’ residences. Since 1996 they have been creating and developing innovative and industry leading residences.  Inspired by the loss of Karen’s mother to Alzheimer’s disease the Waterford brand has evolved into a full continuum of care residence  ensuring that a broad range of care needs can be met.  To this end, the Waterford Ottawa is the only seniors residence in North America with a fully enclosed, climate-controlled atrium and a retractable roof. This remarkable and innovative  courtyard is designed as comfortable outdoor living space that will be enjoyed year round inside.

Family is what defines The Waterford.  We are very proud to be working alongside our fourth generation – Adam (Design & Architecture), Allison (BA, Gerontology), Kristen(CPA, CA) and Jennifer (RN & Resident Doctor at University of Toronto Family Medicine Program) – all who bring their own unique talents and commitment to service. Even Autumn & Della (Steve & Leslie), have begun their initiation into what it means to be Family by participating in decorating our buildings for the seasons.