This page has been archived. View the obituaries and death notices for July-December 2021 here.
Jane Barkey
It is with heavy hearts that we share our loss and heaven’s gain, with the passing of Jane Barkey at Algonquin Grace Hospice on June 8, 2021.
Jane left behind her husband of 59 years and love of her life, Gord Barkey, children Martin (Ginger), Graham, Christine (Mike); grandchildren Amanda (Travis), Josh (Nicole), Jacob (Katelin), Derek (Jasmin), Krista, Griffin and sweet Sofia; and great-grandchildren, Olivia, Wesley, Scarlet, Bethy, Jude, Bella, Joe and Max. Jane is predeceased by her brothers, Don and Fred Hensler, and survived by her sister Carmen Laidley and brother Philip Maynard.
Jane and Gord moved their family from the metropolis of Queensville to the solitude of the north, hand-building their family home from logs from the property. Family was very important to Jane, especially her ‘babies’, celebrating each special birthday, graduation, anniversary, and holiday together, which brought her immeasurable joy. Jane had a heart for Jesus and lived her life loving on others; using a batch of muffins, a book, or simply listening to someone share their story as an opportunity to share the hope in Jesus. In addition to the family above, Jane had special relationships with so many other people, some lasting several decades and we recognize that they, too, will share in the grief of her passing.
Jane’s family wishes to thank Dr Sheena Branigan & Dr Jen MacMillan with their excellent care of her this spring and to the team of angels at Hospice for loving so kindly on her in her final days. The family will have a private service at Faith Baptist church due to the current restrictions. In lieu of flowers, Jane requested that donations be made to The Table Soup Kitchen Foundation supporting the hurting, homeless, and hungry in Huntsville and area communities.
With deepest sorrow, we announce that Sean Preston, our beloved son, brother, family member and friend passed away on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, at Algonquin Grace Residential Hospice in Huntsville after a short battle with cancer at the age of 40. Sean was born on July 24, 1980, in Huntsville to parents David and Gail Preston.
Humourous, athletic, artistic, hard working and intelligent, are just some of the words that evoke memories in those who knew Sean. He could build and program computers as well as repair anything with an engine; testing the speed of his cars was one of his many passions.
Sean had a deep love of family and faith, values that came naturally to Sean. Those who knew Sean, even just a little, can attest to this and have lost a shining light in their lives. He loved being around family and those he called friends. Sean had an energy that with even just one encounter, you would remember him for life.
Love will light the way for his family as they mourn his passing. He is the beloved son of David and Gail Preston, friend and brother to Andrea (Brad), Carlin (Brandon), Brett (Eva) and the best funcle to Gabriel, Arya, Kieran, Kassandra and Kinley. Sean will be remembered by his many aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family far and wide. He is predeceased in death by his Grandfathers Jack and Eugene, Grandmothers Betty and Pauline. Survived by Grandmother Edna Preston. Your memory will forever be with us.
A private family funeral service will be held on Friday, June 18, 2021 at Billingsley Funeral Home in Huntsville at 2 p.m. The funeral service will be live streamed for those unable to attend due to Covid-19 restrictions. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Algonquin Grace Hospice or the Charity of your choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
“Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and forever dear.”
Frank passed away peacefully on June 2, 2021, at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. Loving husband of the late Glenna Supple (nee Hibberd). Frank was born in Saskatchewan to Richard and Katherine, one of 12 siblings and moved to Ontario when he was 15. He moved with Glenna to Huntsville in 1975. He was “A Jack of All Trades” turning his hand at anything. He enjoyed coffee and conversations with friends, restoring old cars, playing guitar, country music and watching his favorite sports, baseball and Nascar races. He will be missed by his brother-in-law John, sister-in-law Colleen, many nieces, and nephews and many long-time wonderful friends.
A Visitation will take place on Monday, June 7, 2021, at Billingsley Funeral Home from 12 p.m. until 2 p.m. In keeping with guidelines mandated by the Province of Ontario, the visitation will be scheduled in 25 minutes increments with a maximum of 10 people allowed. We ask that you contact our funeral home to schedule a time to pay your respects at 705-789-8982. The private funeral service will take place following the visitation in the funeral home chapel at 2 p.m. Burial to follow at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
We lost our beloved mother Laurie Ann White on May 31st, 2021, at 55 years of age. She passed away peacefully with her family by her side. She was Kaska Dena descent, born into the wolf clan of Francis Lake, Yukon.
Laurie was a loving mother to Carrie (Jon) and Justin (Jessie). She was predeceased by her son Charles Stephen. Survived by her grandchildren; Cadance (10), Alinna (5), Octavia (1.5) and Annila (6 months). Life loving soulmate to Rob Morrison. She was a loving sister to Joey Doctor Mitchell and Miranda Lane. Predeceased by her brother Glen Jimmy. Beloved niece to her Aunt Nora Ladue and daughter of Margaret Mitchell/Helen Scott. She was predeceased by her father Howard Ladue, Grandfather Little Jimmy Doctor, Great Grandfather Old Chief Doctor and Grandmothers Ella Ladue and Anna Jimmy. She was a loving aunt and great aunt to Ken (Martha); Diego and Brianna. Dorthey, David and extended families. To all her friends who became family to her, may we all remember her, as she rests in everlasting peace, https://
Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Saturday, June 5th, 2021, from 11 am until 1 pm at Billingsley Funeral Home, Huntsville. In keeping with Covid-19 guidelines, the visitation will be scheduled in 20-minute increments. We ask that you please call the office at 705-789-8982 to schedule a time or SVP below. A private family funeral service will follow the visitation in the funeral home chapel at 1 p.m. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to the Breast Cancer Society of Canada, www.bcsc.ca . Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
DAVIS, Edward Cecil “Ted”Passed away peacefully with family at his side on Sunday, May 30, 2021, at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in his 76th year. Ted is the beloved husband of 54 years to Paulette Davis (nee Cooper) of Huntsville. Cherished and much-loved father of John, Shelley (Chris) and Tammy (Mike). Proud papa of Lynsey (Rob), Natasha, Karlie (Chris), Frank (Kelsey), Aron, Ashly, Marilyn and Victoria. Great Papa of Gage, Jackson, Cooper, Max and Scarlette. Ted will be dearly missed by his extended family and friends.
The family would like to thank the palliative care team, the doctors and nurses at the Huntsville Hospital Dialysis Unit for the exceptional care and support given to Ted and family. A private family graveside service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Locks Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation – Dialysis Unit. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
MARTIN-HENDERSON, Karen Louise
Passed away peacefully on May 9, 2021 at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in her 67th year. Karen is the loving daughter of the late Clarence and Jean (née Groat) Martin who was born in Toronto on August 26, 1954. Beloved wife of Stuart Henderson of Kearney. Mother to Joel Best and Tamara Best. She will be missed by her sister Pam (Rudy) Roth, brothers, John (Sandra) Martin, Steven Martin and sister Teresa Martin-Hughes. Karen will be lovingly remembered by her close friends Cathy Arnold and Janice Therrien.
In keeping with Karen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Addison Society. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Walter Alwyn ClarkeAl went to be with the Lord on May 19, 2021. He passed peacefully in his sleep at home with his family at the bedside. Al was a beloved husband to Elizabeth for 61 years, a devoted father to Grant, Tracy (Carl Nelson) and Jillian (David McDougall). He was also a very proud grandfather to Emily, Carlie and Eli McDougall.
Predeceased by his parents Herbert and Pheobe Clarke and his brother Wilbert. Mourning his loss are his brothers Ian and Ynyr and his sister Audrey Gaythwaite.
Al was born in 1935 in Northern Ireland. His passions and pursuits included soccer, track cycling and music. He enjoyed playing piano and accordion. He emigrated to Canada in 1956 to join his brother Ian in Toronto. As a young man he had many adventures travelling in the western provinces and playing soccer for Calgary. Al and Elizabeth were married in 1960. He began a successful pharmaceutical sales career in 1962 and later transitioned to the furniture industry, representing companies in Ontario, Quebec and U.S.A. After retirement in 2009, he and Elizabeth moved to Muskoka to be near family. Al’s faith and trust in God has been the foundation to his life. He was a joyful person, always optimistic, friendly, welcoming and caring. He had a kind and encouraging word for each and anyone and showed compassion to all he met. Al loved his family well and will be sorely missed.
In keeping with Al’s eternally grateful spirit, the family wishes to thank Dr. Hudson, Dr. Lam and team, also the wonderful Hope Huntsville Palliative Care team. Thank you to our thoughtful neighbours in Port Sydney, whose kindness has meant so much to the family.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private funeral service will be held at Faith Baptist Church on Thursday, May 27, 2021.
June Elizabeth Marlene Harris (Shepherd)
June passed away peacefully, in her 81st year, with her family by her side, on May 14, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Hospice in Huntsville, after a lengthy illness.
Beloved wife of Melvyn Carr Harris for 58 years. Dear mother to Carolee, Wray (Christine) and Glen (Gorete). Loved grandmother to Chloe, Raehanna, Holton, Gwenyth, Grace and special grandmother to Kyle. Cherished sister of Max Shepherd of Windsor, daughter of Agnes and Elmer Shepherd (both deceased) of Parkhill. Dear niece of George (deceased) and Betty Prest of Brinsley and Marwood and Marjorie Prest (both deceased) of Exeter. June was aunt to Barry, Brandi and Justin Shepherd. In addition, she was aunt and sister-in-law to many in the Harris family. June had numerous cousins, special mention to Jim, Wayne, Bev (deceased) and Brian Prest, Cindy Davidson (Prest) and Bill Prest (deceased). She had many dear friends, especially Irene, April (deceased), Margriet, Phyllis (Joe, deceased) and Pat.
June was born in Lieury, Ontario near Parkhill and married Mel in 1963. She lived in London, Nobleton, Ufford and Baysville. June was born a farm girl and later had her own farm in Ufford, focusing on her goats and horses. She had a fierce love for her dogs, kitties and all other animals. She welcomed all to her home, with a warm heart and welcome smile. She loved to serve as hostess, preparing her specialty roast beef, followed by a great game of euchre. She adored her country music, her flower garden, her television programs but above all else, she loved her family.
Sincere gratitude to the staff of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare at Bracebridge and Huntsville locations, as well as to the physicians, nurses, and support workers at the Algonquin Grace Hospice.
In keeping with June’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be scheduled when provincial assembly restrictions permit.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local SPCA or the Algonquin Grace Hospice.
mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Cameron Frederick White, January 26, 1938 – May 19, 2021
The time has come to say goodbye to a wonderful man and amazing husband, father and friend who passed away last evening.
Those who were lucky enough to know Cameron, felt the unconditional love that he gave to his family, friends and extended family who he treated as though they were his own. We are forever grateful for the kindness and integrity he instilled in us through the example of his life.
Cameron was born in Mar, Ontario, the second oldest of six children born to Oliver and Evelyn White. Cameron spent his childhood on the family farm surrounded by a large, close-knit family.
After high school, Cameron moved to the ‘big city’ starting his professional career at Bell Canada, which soon brought him to St. Catharines where he met the love of his life Barbara Brooks. Dubbed the “new fella”, Cameron found himself part of the social and fun-loving Brooks family. A big adjustment from his life on the farm but one that he embraced whether he liked it or not. Cameron and Barbara were married, June 23, 1962 and never looked back. Their adventures together involved many moves, to Ottawa, Mississauga and Brantford, eventually settling back in St. Catharines where they would raise their three children Kate, Julia and Chris.
Though Cameron worked hard and traveled often, during his time with John Deere, he was always there for his family. Coaching Chris’ baseball teams when he could and being there to encourage his daughters when they needed him. One thing we always knew is our Dad had our backs and would do anything for us.
When grandchildren came along, Cameron flourished in his new role. He spent hours loving them as infants and entertaining them as toddlers, encouraging them as they grew. Grandpa was their go-to for walks in the woods and fishing off the dock. And he loved nothing more than to welcome his growing family into his home and watching as the action unfolded around him. Grandpa was always there to send his grandchildren off with a handshake and warm hug.
The community remembers him for his time as a proud member and past president of the Rotary Club of Huntsville. Cameron loved his Muskoka community, volunteering and giving back to those who enriched his life and the lives of others.
Without a doubt, the greatest gift that Cameron gave to his family was the gift of his time and his unconditional love. He will be missed immeasurably.
He requests that donations be made to the Rotary Club of Huntsville so they may continue to serve others.
A Celebration of Cameron’s life will take place when possible at his favorite place, on the dock, with the sun dipping below the horizon and surrounded by friends and laughter.
The family would like to thank the wonderful medical staff at Huntsville District Hospital and special gratitude to the staff at Hospice Huntsville for making his last days graceful.
Cameron is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, three children, Kate, Julia and Chris (Heather). Seven grandchildren, Cameron, Carlyn, Olivia, Graydon, Carmen, Trevor and Jake. He is further survived by his siblings, Irvine, Henry (Marlene), Patricia (Forbes), Charles (Jan) and Margaret. Cameron also leaves behind life-long friends and family Ron and Sally Brooks, Judy Brooks and Chris Brennan.
He was welcomed to heaven by his granddaughter Carmen Leolani, as they surely took their place on the dock with fishing rod in the water and enjoying a huge bowl of ice cream.
BARDEN, Trevor Richard
July 14, 1946 – May 10, 2021
Passed away peacefully at The Pines Long Term Care Home in Bracebridge, Ontario on Monday, May 10, 2021 at age 74. Beloved husband of Rosalind Elizabeth Harris for 47 years. He will be greatly missed by his son, Colin of Utterson, brother Paul (Lars) of Corvallis, Oregon and brother Joel (Deb) of Coldwater, Ontario. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Joyce Barden, his brother Bryan and his sister Pamela Barden. Also mourning his loss are sisters-in-law Brenda (John) Baker, Pat (Dave) McPhail and brother-in-law Bill Harris, along with nine nieces and nephews and their spouses and children.
Trevor was born in East York, Ontario and moved with his family to Port Severn and Coldwater. He went to Park Street Collegiate in Orillia and graduated from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Civil Technology. Before and after graduation he worked for McCormick and Rankin, Engineers and Bailey Construction in Orillia. In 1973, he met Roz on a blind date on Friday, the 13th of April and they were married the following year on Groundhog Day (so that Trevor would never forget his wedding anniversary). For five years they lived in Orillia until Trevor took a job with Fowler Construction in Bracebridge in 1979. He worked as a Supervisor, Estimator, Sand Camp Supervisor and finally, as Purchaser.
Weekends in the summer were spent with Roz and Colin at the Harris family cottage near Pointe au Baril, Ontario. Annually since 1973, the “Harris Lake Gang”, a group of Trevor’s school friends and their spouses, would gather at the cottage for a fun-filled weekend of stories, libation and good food. Over the winter months, when he could take vacations, Trevor liked to travel. He went with Roz (and sometimes Colin or Roz’s brother Bill) to Florida, California, Nevada, Arizona, Columbia, Jamaica, Venezuela, and Costa Rica.
In 2002, Trevor received a devastating diagnosis of Huntington’s Disease. Unable to work any more because of his disability, he and Roz bought a trailer and toured the East Coast of Canada and then headed to Arizona for the winter. Trevor and Roz continued to travel to Tucson together for 15 years, enjoying the company of friends from all over Canada and the United States.
Trevor’s biggest passion was fishing! He spent countless hours in “The Fishing Machine” searching for “the big one” on Harris Lake and surrounding waters. He enjoyed annual fishing tournaments with friends both in the Huntsville area and at the cottage (where the guys tried to out-fish the women). Trevor never really cared about whether he caught any fish, he just liked being out there fishing. It was a passion that he passed on to his son Colin. Even in the latter years, Trevor enjoyed fishing from the family pontoon boat.
Trevor was an armchair sports enthusiast for most of his life. He loved to watch baseball, hockey, basketball and especially, professional golf on TV. Every Thursday to Sunday for the past 15 years or more, you could find Trevor watching the current PGA tournament. He could always tell you where they were playing, who was winning and how the Canadian players were doing. One of the highlights of his life was seeing his favourite players, including Tiger Woods, at Match Play tournaments in Tucson.
From the time he was a teenager, Trevor was an avid stamp collector. He was an active member of the Muskoka Stamp Club and the Tucson Stamp Club. For as long as he was physically able, he worked on and enjoyed his collection of Canadian and World stamps.
Trevor’s family would like to thank the many Personal Support Workers, Social Workers, Nurses, Doctors, other medical professionals, volunteers and dear friends that helped care for him throughout his journey with Huntington’s. And though his time there was short, they would like to thank the staff of The Pines Long Term Care Home for their compassionate care. Almost since Trevor was diagnosed, the Huntington’s Clinic at North York Hospital has been an important resource and source of support for the family.
At Trevor’s request, there will be no formal service. A celebration of life with family and close friends will occur at a later date. Donations in Trevor’s memory may be made to The Huntington Society of Canada, Hospice Huntsville, The Friends (Parry Sound) or the charity of your choice. In his honour, take some time and go fishing.
EVANS-TAVERNER, Barbara Anne (nee Fielding)
Barbara Anne Fielding grew up on the shores of Fairy Lake with her dad Jim, mom Ivy and her younger brother Jimmy. Summers were fun filled with lots of tourists who vacationed at their Lakeview Cottage Resort. An excellent swimmer, Barb swam across Fairy Lake. Dogs were her constant companions all her life. In 1955, at the age of 18, Barbara began her teaching career at the Canal in a one room school. Teaching in Scarborough and Orangeville followed before returning to Huntsville. Barb loved her students who in return loved their teacher. Teaching and caring for Kirk and Scott filled her days. She served a term as president of the FWTAO and in 1990 retired from the Muskoka Board of Education. Sunday School, Books for Newborns, World Vision, Probus – just a few on her list of activities. Retirement years were filled with gardening, art projects, golf and playing in her ladies’ bridge group. In winters, Barb and her husband Ron loved to socialize in Florida where golf and cards filled happy hours with old and new friends. In later years with unsettled health, Barb moved into Muskoka Shores Care Community . She passed away on May 9, 2021.
Beloved wife of Ronald Taverner. Loving mother to sons Scott and his wife Terri and the late Kirk Evans. Dear sister of Jim (Nancy) Fielding, Nancy (Glen) Taverner and Eric (Lisa). Proud grandmother of Cailin and Amelia. Barb will be remembered by her niece Maiya (Ryan) Merritt, nephews Regan( Elsbeth)Fielding and Jimmy (Tracey) Fielding.
Due to covid and travel restrictions for son Scott and wife Terri who reside in South Korea, a Celebration of Life will occur at a later date. Barb will be laid to rest at All Saints Anglican Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Huntsville Hospital Foundation, World Vision, or a charity of your choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Passed away peacefully at his home in Port Sydney on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Beloved husband of the late Janet (nee Morris) Simpson who predeceased Ben in 2001. Father of Valerie Boasley of Bracebridge and Laurie and her husband Sandy Milne of Port Sydney. Cherished grandfather of Michelle, Melissa (Bill), Ben, Devon (Rachel), Aaron and Trevor. Proud great-grandfather of Sean, Garrett and Kara. Ben will be missed by his brothers-in-law Leslie (Beth) Morris and Steve (Pat) Morris.
The family would like to thank Dr. Mathies, the nurses and staff at CCAC for all their incredible support and the care received. Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will take place at a later date. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Bernard Hebner of Huntsville, passed away peacefully at Granite Ridge, Gravenhurst on Friday May 7th, in his 83rd year. Bernie is survived by his children, Kelly, Donal and Lisa, 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Survived by siblings Marjorie Blackburn, Laura Wilson, Anita (Earl) Bryant, Gregory (Sylvia) Hebner, Nancy (Richard) Schroder and Rudy Hebner. Predeceased by his siblings Pat (Earl) Gray, Carole Troughton and Barbara Hammond.
Bernie was a fiercely independent person who was happiest in the bush. He enjoyed the simple things in life, such as coffee and a good breakfast of bacon and eggs. He was so dedicated to those simple things, that he orchestrated “the great escape” also known as “a jail break”, with i.v. pole in tow, to get to Timmies, while waiting in hospital for a quadruple bypass. But on a serious note, he was extremely funny and witty, generous, a lifelong blood donor, has won an award for bravery. (The one time he received official recognition for coming to the aid of others, of which there are numerous occasions.)
He will be especially missed by Kelly (Rob), Lisa (Mike), Robert and Andrew (Cara)
In keeping with Bernard’s wishes, cremation will take place. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
BEAMAN, Alberta A. “Bert”
“A Grand Lady of the Lake”
Alberta, a long-time resident of Lake of Bays, Muskoka, passed away peacefully of heart failure on May 1st in her 91st year after a very brief decline in health. While her mind stayed strong until the very end, ultimately her generous heart succumbed to age and she slipped away peacefully at Huntsville District Hospital. Thank you to the medical staff for their kind care and consideration.
Born in March, 1930, Alberta “Bert” spent her formative years and career in Brantford, Ontario where her keen eye for organization helped her excel in office management at the credit bureau business. In 1972 she and husband Clifford T. Beaman (deceased) relocated, building a lakeside home near Huntsville where she resided ever since. A passionate nature-lover, she was truly in her element!
Never idle, Alberta was blessed with an active life filled with numerous friends and rewarding hobbies, particularly her beloved gardening, and was fortunate to be able to pursue them right to the end of her life. She taught herself culinary cooking, bowled, enjoyed countless theatre shows, voraciously consumed mystery novels, and for 50 years hosted family and friends in style at her home on the lake. In the off-season, she was a passionate globetrotter who visited scores of countries over the years, first on safaris and touring vacations and then on cruises to far-flung places.
She is lovingly survived by her sister June Cooper, her stepson Roger Beaman (Dana), nieces and nephews Karen Ayles (Steve), Kim Thrush (Bob), Sandra Beamer (David), Barry Cooper (Nola), and Darryl Cooper as well as step-grandchildren Amy Osborne (Josh), Tom Beaman (Andrea), Ian Beaman (Katie) and many great-grandchildren. Countless other friends will miss her timeless elegance and class, her willingness to listen but never judge, and her easy smile.
Alberta was buried next to Clifford at Mount Hope Cemetery in Brantford; a remembrance is planned at a later date. Donations to her favorite charity The Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be welcomed in lieu of flowers. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
May she Rest in Peace.
Newton-Mason, MaureenMaureen Carole Newton-Mason (Nee-Smibert) passed peacefully on Saturday, May 1, 2021, at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. She was surrounded by her children, Jeff and Chris Mason, her loving sister Wanda Smibert and companion Maurice McGill.
Born in Stratford, Ontario, to Archie and Lydia Smibert in 1937. Dear sister of Barry, Vaughn and Wanda Smibert. Beloved mother to sons; Jeff (Heather) Mason (of Ottawa Ont) and Chris (Riva) Mason (of Abbotsford BC). Grandmother to Ryan (Trevor), Krista, Cole (Destiny) and Sean Mason; and her nephews, Scott (Lisa) and Trevor (Lisa) Smibert.
She will be dearly missed by Maurice McGill of Huntsville. He was a wonderful companion over the past number of years. We are grateful for his dedication to our mother. A special thank you to Scott Johnson, for his watchful eye and for always being there.
Nursing was her calling and graduated as a RN in 1958. She worked in numerous nursing specialties and was a role model in her profession. Fondly remembered by life-long extraordinary friends, her nursing fraternity, church community and her work with Huntsville Hospice.
She had a full life, anchored by her love of family and friends. She had a passion for German Shepherds, loved the outdoors, driving tours, cooking and eating her favourite ice cream; pralines n’ cream. She enjoyed exploring different cultures and visiting historical venues, travelling the world. She especially looked forward to special calendar events to decorate her home and get all dolled up to celebrate the occasions.
We have been over-whelmed by the love and support our family has received from her loving family and friends. She will be truly missed by everyone she touched.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Huntsville Hospice or the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Due to COVID -19, please monitor this site for further information on a funeral service and/or public celebration of life to be held at a later date.
Betty Fulton
1932 – 2021
Betty Fulton, daughter of Bruce and Frances (née Capell) Hunter, passed away peacefully at Heatherwood Retirement Residence with family at her bedside on April 26 in her 89th year.
Betty was born in St. Catharines and raised on her parents’ farm on Linwell Road, attending Maplewood Elementary School and St. Catharines Collegiate.
Betty is predeceased by her husband Chesley and son Larry. She will be greatly missed by her four surviving children. Clyde (Judith) Fulton, Brian (Lisa Mucciante) Fulton, Donna White (Brian), Scott (Cindy Fallon) Fulton, Daughter-In-Law Donna Fulton and their chosen Bequian Canadian son Amos and his wife Alice and children. Also mourning her passing are grandchildren Lisa (Ryan) Pepperall, David (Lani Paterson) Fulton, Craig and Kim Fulton, Trish (Shane Cowlishaw) Merz, Allison Merz, Michael (Laura Sharkley) Fulton, Stephen (Chelsea) Fulton and their chosen Bequian granddaughter Gaynor Kydd. Her six great grandchildren Ethan and Alexa Pepperall, Lucas and Alexander Fulton and Sebastian and Elijah Cowlishaw Merz will miss her dearly.
Betty married Chesley on August 26, 1950 and they were blessed with five children. Chesley opened his own business in 1969 and Betty supported her husband by handling the office functions at Fulton Manufacturing Ltd. The business was sold to their son Larry in 1988 and upon retirement they moved to Huntsville. It was there that they met Ken and Karen Hewitt who became good friends and their Huntsville family. They made many friends in the Huntsville community including members of All Saints Church and Parish of the Good Shepherd, Emsdale.
In early 2016, due to Chesley’s health, they moved back to St. Catharines to be closer to family.
Betty had a generous heart and found joy in helping others. She enjoyed playing bridge with her fellow Heatherwood residents and participating in social activities. Betty was a member of St. George’s Anglican Church, where she felt most at home. She loved the atmosphere provided by the church and Reverend Martha Tatarnic, for whom she had endless admiration.
Due to current COVID restrictions, the family will plan a memorial service at a later date.
Betty and Ches were supporters of many community organizations and the family suggests that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be directed to Hospice Niagara, 403 Ontario Street, Unit 2, St. Catharines, ON L2N 1L5 or Hospice Huntsville, 100 Frank Miller Road, Huntsville, ON P1H 1H7.
Arrangements entrusted to Hulse & English Funeral Home & Chapel (905-684-6346). Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.hulseandenglish.com
In Loving Memory of Eldon Derby Harvey
November 4, 1926 – April 27, 2021
Eldon Derby Harvey was born to Roy and Stella Harvey in 1926 in the small town of Smiths Falls, Ontario, where he grew up surrounded by the bustling industry of the Canadian Pacific Railway. At 15, Eldon quit high school to work for the railroad. His work ethic quickly caught the eye of his superiors, but when his age barred him from more senior positions in CPR, Eldon transitioned jobs and began a lifelong career in the logging/pulp & paper industry.
Eldon’s work led him across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes and even carried him for long stints into the bush of northern Ontario. Eventually, he settled into management positions in Blind River, Montreal and finally in Huntsville, Ontario at Domtar’s Fiberboard Plant. By nature, Eldon was a hard worker who devoted himself to his employment and the employees he managed. He enjoyed his work. In 1990, he retired after 45 years in the industry.
Eldon was dedicated to his work, but even more so, he was a family man. In 1954, Eldon married Arlene, his beloved wife of 63 years. They went on to have four children: Karen, Laurene, Roy, and Karla, all of whom remember “Pops” dearly for his wisdom, dry humour, and his unshakeable love for each of them. Eldon’s children and family were near and dear to his heart.
Throughout his life, Eldon was also a man of faith. An avid reader (always non-fiction) with an insatiable appetite for studying scripture, he strove to put his faith into action through humble, consistent, and principled day-to-day living: first as a husband and father, then as an employee, a volunteer (teacher, deacon, elder and mentor) at his local church, a neighbour, and a friend. He bloomed where he was planted. Friends and family alike knew they could always count on Eldon for his level-headedness, integrity and wisdom. He will forever be remembered as an example of an ideal father: as a reflection of his Heavenly Father.
Eldon is survived by his children: Laurene Armstrong, Roy Harvey, Karla Beckett (Tim); by his eight grandchildren: Chris Dean (Aleida), William Hicks (Rachel), Amanda Smith (Scott), Michael Harvey (Janelle), Joy Reynolds (Eric), Paul Harvey (Kara), Liam Beckett, Pyper Beckett; and by his twelve great grandchildren: Kostas, Maddox, Frank, Zoe, Willow, Sequoia, Adalee, Belle, Kaleb, Kairo, Wells, and Noah.
Eldon is predeceased by Arlene, his wife; his sister: Audrey Koch; his daughter: Karen Almas; his son-in-law: Jon Armstrong; his daughter-in-law; Barb Harvey; his granddaughter: Laura Dean; his great grandson: Wonder Reynolds.
On Sunday, May 30, 2021 at 1 PM EDT (Huntsville time), a video tribute, at the following link, will be available to remember and celebrate who Eldon was and the influence he had in our lives: http://www.faithmuskoka.ca/
Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Passed away suddenly on Thursday, April 15, 2021, at her residence in Huntsville. Annette was born on July 6, 1963, in Huntsville to parents Davis and Kathleen (nee Wagg) Haven. She is the loving sister and sister-in-law of Gail Cooper, Cathy Lamb, Terry (Cindy) Leith, Barbara Turni, Elizabeth (Ron) Robertson and Beth Leith. Predeceased by her brother Robert Leith, brothers-in-law Larry Cooper and Tony Turni. She is the loving aunt to ten nieces and nephews and great aunt to eleven. Special friend to Chris and Adian.
Annette will truly be missed by her beloved cat “Casey”
In keeping with Annette’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to a charity of choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
TONKS, James HenryIt is with sadness that the family of James (Jim) Tonks announces his passing on April 3rd, 2021, at Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville, Ontario.
James was the eldest of 8 children to Albert and Annie (Brindley). He was born in Nottingham, England, on May 28th, 1924. After completing school at age 14, Jim worked as a coal miner and briefly apprenticed as a barber. The war years were spent in the Home Guard. In 1949 he married the love of his life, Joyce Spencer. They would have four children and 53 years together before her passing in 2002.
In 1957, searching for a better life, Jim and Joyce came to Canada. They settled first in Scarborough, then Pickering, Ontario. Jim found work on the TTC, driving first the streetcars and then the TTC, and Go Transit buses. The family spent summers camping and travelling around Ontario and Canada. They so loved their adopted home!
In 1982, having raised their children, they moved north to Huntsville, where, after driving for Grey Coach, Jim retired. He continued to keep busy with a hobby farm, raising chickens, and rabbits, fresh vegetables, and making beer and wine. He was also a volunteer driver for the cancer society. They square danced, round danced and travelled the country, making many new friends along the way. They moved into town in 1997, which allowed them to get more involved with Club 55, the condo association and continue to travel. His little dog Skipper was a constant companion on his many walks around town.
In 2004, James married Ida Brooks. Together they settled into their golden years, travelling to Alaska, England and France, and became regular Bridge and Euchre players at the Legion and Club 55.
Jim loved life, family, nature, reading, reciting poetry, Hockey Night in Canada, the Blue Jays, and Rum and raisin ice cream.
Left behind to remember and mourn him are his wife, Ida, sister Freda (England), brother John (Pat) (England), his children: David (Cathy), Gary (Sheila), Janet (Tim), and Marian (Mike), his Grandchildren: Jeff (Rhonda), Ben (Reagan), Kristine (Rob), Joanna, Shelley (Matt), Derek (Julia), Kira, and Zoe (Tom), and his Great-grandchildren: Connor, Charlotte, Stella, Zachary, Emilia, and Olivia.
Cremation has taken place. Service/celebration of his life to take place on Saturday, June 5th at 12 pm at Billingsley Funeral Home. Internment following at Hutchison Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial gifts to Fairvern Nursing Home or the Canadian Cancer Society. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
The family of Lloyd Austin is saddened to announce his passing on March 15th, 2021 in his 93rd year at Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville.
He was born in Fern Glen to the late Mossom Austin, and Ethel (nee) Tebby. Predeceased by his wife Jessie Elizabeth (nee) Stuart and his son Neil John.
Predeceased siblings Colonel, Marian, Delmar, Myrtle, Jack, Ted, Bud, Elvina, and Ken.
Left to mourn him is his sister Shirley Parker. His daughters Susan (Mike), Glenda (Peter). His grandchildren Jennifer (Nick), Christine (Keith) and Jason. His great-grandchildren Aiden, Alyssa, Ava, and Sophie, and many nieces and nephews.
Lloyd left Fern Glen in his teens and headed for Toronto. He had various jobs of picking tobacco to roofing. He would say he could jump from rooftop to rooftop. He worked at an auto parts place then became a tire man. Lloyd’s longest career was with Borden milk company where he started as a tire man. While providing for his family he went to night school and at the age of 39 he got his electrical papers he worked at Borden’s until they were bought out which was 25 years of service. Lloyd’s last 10 years before retirement he was an electrician on the Downsview all Canadian Forces base.
In 1975 he bought the family cottage on Round Lake in Fern Glen from his mother Ethel. This was his happy place, they made it their permanent home 2003
Lloyd was known for his sense of humour; he always had a story or a joke to tell, and he would laugh at his own jokes.
Lloyd will be missed by many friends and family.
He had wished there be no service, in his memory donations may be made to Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville Ontario. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
It is with great sadness that the family of Jeannette Lupton (nee – Hamilton) announce her passing on Monday, April 19, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Hospice, Huntsville under the care of the wonderful nurses and doctors.
Beloved mother of Bob, Randy, Tammie, Jennifer and family.
Predeceased by her soulmate Herold and son Tim.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations to Algonquin Grace Hospice would be appreciated.
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
MALONEY, Janet Anne (nee Pritchard)
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Janet on Saturday, April 17, 2021 after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Janet was born in Guelph on January 24, 1941 to Ted and Mary Pritchard but spent most of her life in Toronto. She has gone to be with her one love, friend and husband John “Jack” Maloney who predeceased Janet in April of 2001. She will be greatly missed by her daughter Peggy (Andy) Muller, grandchildren Cameron (Emily) and Melissa as well as her brother David Pritchard and nephew Patrick (Christine) and August Pritchard. Janet is predeceased by her sister Susan Pritchard in 2008. She will be missed by countless family and friends she cherished over the years.
A private interment will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations to the War Amps of Canada or charity of choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Albert Bruce Wigg
January 18, 1944 – April 7, 2021
Peacefully and surrounded by family, Albert Bruce Wigg of Gravenhurst passed away on April 7th, 2021 at the age of 77. Loving partner of Antje Ballantyne-Watson, caring father to Keith Wigg and father-in-law to Phillipa Griffiths, adoring grandfather to Gabi Griffiths-Wigg. Bruce was predeceased by his parents Albert and Eva Wigg, his sister Diane Amiot and his beloved wife of ten years Lesley Barber-Wigg.
Bruce was born and lived much of his life in Toronto. He spent as much time as possible at his favourite place, his cottage in Gravenhurst, which he first visited in 1965 and where he spent his last day “putzing” with his boat in anticipation of the ice going out. He also loved to go on camping and fishing trips with his son to many Ontario Provincial Parks, especially his favourite Lake Superior Provincial Park in the Crescent Lake campground. Upon retirement, Bruce relocated permanently to Muskoka where he enjoyed working on little projects and fishing with “his girl” Gabi. Most recently they worked together to make ice-fishing tip-ups out of mouse traps. In 2016 at the age of 72, he amazingly received a double lung transplant at Toronto General Hospital and was home in about a month, an amazing accomplishment. Bruce’s new lungs gave him a new lease on life for which he was grateful every day.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place on his beloved Gull Lake at a later date. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers in Albert Bruce’s name may be made to the Ajmera Transplant Centre through the UHN. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Blanche Lorrain (Oke) Guest (nee Thompson)
It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of our mother Blanche (Oke) Guest in Huntsville Hospital, April 17, 2021, in her 105th year. Blanche is predeceased by her two husbands, Roy Oke and Lorne Guest, also by her parents Gordon and Ethel (nee Saulter) Thompson and her brothers Murl and Grenvel. Left to mourn her passing are her daughters June and Donna and Lorne’s daughter Gail (Carl). She leaves behind three very special grandsons, Jason (Linda) Hayward, Aaron (Tilda) Hayward and Jeremy (Tina) Hayward and granddaughter Carii (Brian) Geroux as well as eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. She also leaves nieces, nephews, and families.
Blanche was born and raised at South Portage. She did not start school until her younger brothers were old enough to make the long daily journey with her. She often spoke of her childhood memories and experiences – so different from those of today’s children! At age eighteen she came to Huntsville to work. Many will remember her as a long-time employee of Eatons. She married Roy Oke and together they had two daughters, Donna and June.
Upon Retirement, she and Roy became very involved with Brunel Community Centre. Blanche was a life member and past president of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary. Doubtful anyone knows the number of banquets she may have helped cater there! She also played in numerous card and dart tournaments. Blanche was also a life member of Club 55 Huntsville, enjoying such activities as ceramics and art classes. Some of her lovely paintings still grace the walls of family and friends. Of course, Club 55 was also about the card games. She was also a life member of Dwight Lakeview Seniors. She enjoyed the camaraderie and the cards. She loved her “Bid Euchre” and lots of people were happy to have her as their partner.
A few years after Roy’s passing, Blanche met and married Lorne Guest. They enjoyed quite a few “Retirement” years together as well. They travelled a little, spent a few winters in Florida and summers at Kawagama Lake and always played cards!
Blanche lived her entire life in and around Huntsville. She enjoyed the people she met and they her. In her one hundred and four years she witnessed so many changes. She lived through world wars, the great depression, a man on the moon, and so many advances in technology, most recently while in hospital, a “Zoom” visit with her Alberta family. Through it all, she adapted as the situation required.
Through her advanced years, Blanche had reasonably good health, a sharp mind, a quick wit and a keen sense of humour. She continued to drive her car into her late 90’s and never left the house without her lipstick on! With the help of her family, she was able to stay in her own home where she had lived for the last 40 years and reigned as “Queen of the Cribbage Board.” It was a life well lived, a good run for sure!
We, as a family, have been fortunate to celebrate several milestone birthdays and other happy occasions with Blanche, including her hundredth when her Alberta family was all able to attend. We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Huntsville District Memorial Hospital for the care and kindness they extended to our mother and to us during her final days. The Doctors, nurses, and support staff in Emerg, ICU and Palliative Care are wonderful! We would also like to thank friends and neighbours for their acts of kindness and continued support.
Blanche will be interred at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery with her husband Roy. Currently, Covid restrictions prevent a public service. In memory of Blanche, if you wish, donations to the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital or a charity of your choice are appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Ellen MacGregor
The family of Ellen MacGregor is devastated to announce her passing in the early hours of April 13 at Ottawa General Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment for cancer. Born Ellen Maud Griffith in Toronto on Dec. 13, 1948, she was pre-deceased by her parents, Lloyd Griffith and Rose (Whitlock) Griffith. Ellen is survived by her husband Roy and their four children, Kerry (Olivier Dalle, Raphael, Noemie), Christine (Mike Cation, Fisher, Sadie), Jocelyn (Andi Dzilums, Hawkley, Haywood) and Gordon MacGregor. She is enormously missed by her sister Jaqueline (Ralph Cox, Jessie, David), brothers-in-law Jim (Stephanie and family) of Bradford and Tom of Ottawa.
Ellen was a wife, mom, sister, grandmother, friend. She had been a superb athlete in her younger years, playing on high school championship teams for volleyball, basketball, gymnastics and track and field. She was the class valedictorian at Huntsville High School in 1968. She completed an honours degree in art at the University of Guelph and later, when her children were off at university, she completed a degree in psychology from Carleton University. She followed that up with a diploma in Interior Design from Algonquin College.
Ellen was a gifted artist. Her paintings grace the walls of family and friends across the country. She was also a sculptor and loved to build things such as a cottage deck and shed. She was at her happiest roaming the aisles of hardware stores. She made the best soups ever.
Everyone has mentioned her giggle and laugh – instant and infectious. She had a fantastic way with people, always accepting of others and offering help to all. Her family gatherings for Christmas in Ottawa and at Camp Lake during summers were legendary. Her cottage became a central part of so many lives – as well as the lives of her beloved pets.
Ellen supported her children’s interests in a wide variety of sports, serving several years as president of the Ottawa Nepean Diving Club. Once her children were grown, Ellen began accompanying Roy on journalism assignments that took them across the country and across the ocean. She liked to travel, but she liked to come home even more.
Master gardener, canoe tripper, carrier of heavy things – there was always a rock to be moved or plant to be divided. She will be dearly missed. As she had inscribed on the inside of the wedding ring she gave Roy nearly 49 years ago, “You and me, buds for all time.” That pretty well says it all.
Ellen chose cremation. Because of current health restrictions, there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date, when all in attendance can give and receive the hugs we all need. No flowers, please. Those wishing to honour her memory can donate to Canada Blood Services or a charity of their own choice.
Condolences may be offered at https://secure.fhwebhosting.net/bpf/notices/Ellen-MacGregor
BENNETT, Margaret Rose (née Pitblado)
Passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 and is now with the man she had known and loved since she was 15, her husband Clifford Gordon Bennett. Marg was predeceased by her dad and mom David and Melissa (Johnson) Pitblado, brothers James and David Pitblado, and her sisters Wilma Yake, Dorothy Nobes and Kay MacIntosh. Family was Marg’s greatest love. She was a loving Mom to Judy (Tim) Ratcliffe, Joanne Bennett (Stacey Proutt) and David Bennett. Devoted Grandma to Christopher (Monique) Reid, Joseph Reid (Janice Baikie), Justin and Alan Crawford. Grannie to Jonas, Tristan, Bennett, April and Caitlin. Sister to Ada Harvey and her twin, best friend and soul mate Marion Patterson. Sister-in-law to Barbara Howard
and a very, very special Aunt to 4 generations of nieces and nephews who adored her!
When Marg was not knitting sweaters, hats, socks, and mittens for her family she was knitting for one of her volunteer organizations. Helping her community was another of Marg’s passions. She was a giant supporter of The Huntsville Girl’s Hockey Association, she founded the Parents Auxiliary for minor hockey in Huntsville (if her children were involved, so was Marg). In her later years she became involved with The Friends of Fairvern and Muskoka Knitters for Global Warmth.
A private family gathering will take place. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice Huntsville www.hopsicehuntsville.com or Fairvern Nursing Home.
COTTRILL, Verna Mary Leona (nee Seely)
Passed away peacefully on April 11th, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Residential Hospice in her 89th year. Verna was born on September 11, 1932 in Huntsville to parents John and Clara Seely. She is the beloved wife of the late Charles Cottrill who predeceased Verna on October 10, 2004. Cherished mother of Diane (dec. Don) Godfrey, Ben (Gloria) Cottrill, the late Terry (Darlene) Cottrill and Ellen (Michael) Hopkins. Proud grandmother of Donny, Michael, Brian and Timothy, Shon, Eddy, Angie, Taylor, Phillip and Ian, Michael, Nicholas, Terri-Lyn, Justin, Ashley and Stacey and Sean, Shannon and Opal. Dear sister of Marg (dec. Bill) Austin, David (Hazel) Seely, Byron (Beth) Seely, Ralph (Miriam) Seely and Elaine (Gary) Seely-Rheubottom. Predeceased by siblings Jack Seely, Dorothy Wallis, and her brother-in-law Harold Wallis. Verna is survived by many great and great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins and surrounding family and friends.
Verna worked for many years as a cook, as well as working in home construction. Her family is among the first residents in the Huntsville area and helped grow the city into what we see today.
Verna was a wonderful cook, avid fisherman and hunter. Her love of nature was always present, and she had a green thumb that could be seen in her gardens and flowerbeds around her home. She also enjoyed a good Blue Jays baseball game, and… Dr. Pol.
Mom was viewed by many as the matriarch of our large family and will be greatly missed. Her home was open to everyone and was seen as a gathering place for friends and family alike, particularly on the May 24th weekend, where everyone gathered each year for our annual fish fry. When you walked into Verna’s house, she would offer you a cup of tea, ask if you had eaten, and would feed you whether you had eaten 5 minutes ago, or 5 hours ago. Whether hunting, fishing, cooking, baking her famous strawberry shortcake from scratch, gardening, hosting family, being a home to come to when you needed one, being a hand to hold, or a hug to comfort, or the stern voice to tell you to behave yourself, Verna meant so much to so many that her shoes are not likely to be filled in our lifetimes.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held later. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Friends of Algonquin, www.algonquinpark.on.ca. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Jean Clair (Dixon) Cripps
March 30, 1934 to April 3, 2021 (87 years)
Our mother passed away at Muskoka Landing, after a 2 1/2 year decline from her stroke. She was predeceased by her loving husband Sam, parents Charles and May Dixon, sons Morris and Stanley, daughter-in-law Stacey, brothers and sisters Lorn, Percy, Clarence, Ed, Rita, Dorothy, Blanch and Evelyn. Special mention of Gary, who mom raised with our family.
Jean is survived by her sister Dorene (Doug), her children Caroline (Ralph), Wayne, Marlien (Max) and Gwen (Rick). Daughter-In-Law Betty. Grandchildren Carl (Sue), Samantha (Paul), James (Jess), Randy (Kim), Wendy (Bill) and Jeremy (Amanda). Also great Grandchildren Ryker, Rachel (Jacob), Nikki, Zach, Bill, Joe, Ava, Dalton and Delaney and Great Great Grandson Dax.
Mom and Dad were long-term residents of Melissa, after moving to Waseosa Lake Road in 1968. They longed to come back to the Huntsville area where they had many family and friends. They rented at the time a home, previously known as the post office. They both loved the location so much they decided to purchase and build our permanent residence on that site.
Mom was known for her butter tarts and pies, which she sold at a family business, operated by her son Stan. In earlier years she worked as a waitress and managed a business in Brockville. Mom and Dad moved to Brockville in the early ’60s, which was the town where mom had been born.
We had to share our Mom and Dad with extended family and friends, as they always had an open door and welcomed everyone into their home. They always had room for more at the dinner table, a place to stay or just coffee and conversation.
Mom will forever be in our hearts and always remembered for her generosity.
A small family service (due to Covid) was held on April 9th at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, Huntsville, Ontario. The prayer service was lead by Rev. Kelly Baetz of All Saints Anglican Church in Huntsville.
We would like to extend our thanks to the caregivers at Muskoka Landing. Mom would show her appreciation of their care with her winning smile. Also appreciation to Betty for the great care she gave to mom over the years.
In memory of Jean Cripps, please donate to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
LAVER, Bruce LeslieBruce Leslie Laver passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 7th at the age of 90 at his home in Huntsville, Ontario.
An only child, Bruce is predeceased by his mother Jessie (nee Weech) and his father Leslie Mercer Laver and his daughter-in-law Chris. Bruce is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Elizabeth (nee Beresford) known to many as Betty, and his three beloved children; Rob of Huntsville, Stewart (Liz) of Canmore, Alberta, and Wendy of Huntsville, as well has his four grandchildren; Kelly Self (Doug) of Boise, Idaho, Jack Laver of Canmore, William Laver of Montreal, and Andrew Laver of Canmore and his great-granddaughter Caroline Self.
Born in Maple, Ontario on August 14th, 1930, Bruce grew up at Keele Street and Major Mackenzie Drive in the house behind his father’s auto garage. Here, his life was full of outdoor adventures with family and friends sparking a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Bruce graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto in 1955. Though his tenure at U of T started in the Forestry School, he later switched to Chemical Engineering after a summer job in Northern Ontario with the Ministry of Lands and Forests brought him to realize that he would need to balance his love for nature with his love for Elizabeth, which would mean a career based closer to an urban centre.
Bruce began his career immediately after graduation and soon settled in Rosemere, Quebec with all three of his children born in Montreal over the next few years.
1962 brought him to a new job in Toronto and the young family settled in Don Mills. Great and lifelong friends for the whole family were made on Overbank Crescent. It was during this time that Bruce learned to fly and purchased his first aircraft, a small Aeronca on wheels.
After many trips, often with his children, to the Huntsville and Lake of Bays area looking for the ideal lakefront property, he purchased 300 feet of shoreline in 1966 near Dorset on Lake of Bays.
Many great family memories were made at the lake as the cottage was designed and built over the course of a few years by Bruce himself, along with invaluable help from his wife and, of course, his small children.
1972 saw another job change, this time to Huntsville. The family moved to their new home at Echo Bay on Fairy Lake, where Bruce and Elizabeth still call home.
In Huntsville, float planes came into Bruce’s life, which afforded him countless hours of flying time over the hills and lakes around Huntsville. Time spent tinkering on and—at one point completely rebuilding—his beloved Fleet Canuck equally complemented his flying time.
In both summer and winter, there were weekend afternoon flights to the shores of the many otherwise inaccessible lakes that lie along the perimeter of Algonquin Park. These trips, sometimes made with his not-so-trusty beagle in tow, truly brought Bruce peace. Always a prudent pilot, Bruce flew well into his 80s, until he no longer felt comfortable flying.
People who knew Bruce would describe him as a strong, kind and generous family man with a great sense of humour. Bruce always seemed to know the right thing to say in any situation. He loved people, however, he also loved his quiet times to reflect.
Bruce and Elizabeth were always a team, and together, they built strong and lifelong friendships everywhere they went.
His last few years were spent caring for the love of his life as she struggled with blindness; he never left her side and looked after her every need. The strength of their love for each other has inspired us all.
He always knew how to do the right thing and was trusted by many for guidance and advice. He had a strong moral compass.
Sincere thanks to the staff of the ICU at the Huntsville and District Memorial Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
Cremation has taken place and a small family celebration has occurred. www.mitchellfueneralhome.ca
Teanna Wettlaufer
1996 – 2021
Never Forgotten
You’ll never be forgotten that simply cannot be.
As long as I am living I’ll carry you with me.
Safely tucked within my heart your light will always be.
A glowing ember never stilled, throughout the end of time.
No matter what the future brings, or what may lie ahead,
I know that you will walk with me along the path I tread.
So rest my angel be at peace and let your soul fly free.
One day I’ll join your glorious flight for all eternity.
Forever missed and in our hearts, Dad, Mom, Keeley, Holly, Nana & Boppa.
A very special thank you for your care and compassion Kim Doughty, Jen Nicholson, Amy Simpson, Dr. Dmitry Guller, Dr. Gerry Forestell, Ken Biggs.
PHYLLIS MARIE FERGUSON (née Wilson)
November 11, 1950 – March 12, 2021
Neebinaquay “Summer Girl”, the Indigenous name given to her by artist Carl Ray
Heartbroken, we announce the death of Phyllis Ferguson on Friday, March 12 at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital from heart failure. Beloved wife and creative partner of IMAX co-founder Graeme Ferguson, together for nearly 50 years. Graeme, Phyllis and Toni Myers led the IMAX Space Team in its pioneering achievement in chronicling the space shuttle era. Says Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada’s first female astronaut, “A rarity for astronauts to trust anyone outside of our own orbit, we believed in the IMAX folks, not only as respected movie-makers but as trusted members of our own space team, integral to the success of our missions – the storytelling that would survive any of us.”
Phyllis was one-of-a-kind, an alpha female, fiercely loving, loyal, inventive and brave. Her inquiring mind and razor-sharp wit, combined with her resilience and compassion, carried her through 70 years of a magnificent adventure. Born in Quetico, Ontario, she overcame a turbulent and challenging early childhood. As a pre-teenager, she arrived on her own on a Greyhound bus from Edmonton into the home of her grandmother, Phyllis Tenniscoe, in Thunder Bay. She loved her Granny who had 19 children of her own and a warm and welcoming heart. Phyllis, a status member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan (Golden Lake) First Nation, was raised to be self-sufficient amongst a vibrant family, her “cousins” who were really her aunts and uncles. Phyllis’s love for her family was a strong thread throughout her life.
At Port Arthur Collegiate, Phyllis was a good athlete, excelling at basketball and volleyball, and a keen student. She bonded with people who remained friends for life, one of whom said, “I felt so out of place there and meeting and connecting with you, another Indigenous girl, helped me greatly. You became my best friend.” Phyllis always said that the second family who shaped her were Lindsay and the late David Morgan, who invited her in her final year of high school to come and live with them and their children. Phyllis had been thinking about becoming a teacher but at that point her guidance counsellor said, “you’re always playing around with video equipment, you should pursue a career you enjoy.”
She enrolled in Confederation College, which offered a new course in radio and television. She was front and centre as host when the NFB came to Thunder Bay and launched Challenge for Change’s weekly slot on the local TV station.
Her early career included being an announce operator for CBC Radio in Whitehorse, alone in the studio, doing the whole show by herself, and then working on a community Indigenous newspaper in Ottawa. From assistant production manager on the CBC’s Fifth Estate, she became production manager at CTV’s W5, a turning point in her career. Next, after freelancing as a sought-after location manager for feature and made-for-TV films, she became immersed in the IMAX world. Her IMAX credits include Hail Columbia! The Dream is Alive, Blue Planet and Destiny in Space. Throughout her career, Phyllis was the “connector,” laying the foundation for key relationships, based on straight talk, an unerring feel for what makes people tick and her talent for listening and getting people to talk.
That instinct had been evident when she directed her first short documentary – the NFB’s Nishnawbe-Aski: The People and the Land, which was made pro bono as a tool for Indigenous community members to make the case for their opposition to clear-cutting in northwestern Ontario.
Phyllis’s inimitable low-key style was evident in her regular routine of going to the Johnson Space Centre cafeteria every day, finding an empty table and waiting, quietly and confidently, as astronauts and flight directors would come by to share news and opinions. Sometimes an astronaut who had just been named to command a flight would ask her if there was any chance to get an IMAX camera on board. “To me she was the glue that held the IMAX Space Team and the NASA ‘extended family’ together,” says Bill Readdy, former astronaut and associate administrator of NASA’s Space Flight office.
When Graeme and Phyllis retired at Lake of Bays, she became immersed in community life, supporting campaigns and organizations that matched her values and actively raising funds for hospitals. She also found new passions: returning to her love of sports, she took up golf which led to a whole new circle of deep friendships. She loved her black Labs, Naiad and Pixie, playing Scrabble and baking for neighbours. Norway Point became a chosen destination for widespread family and friends, relationships nurtured over many years.
Forever remembered by the Tenniscoe family, especially Ruth Martinsen (the late Bent), Sandra Pehkonen (Allan Davis), Margaret Tenniscoe (Gary Ross) and all their families. Lovingly remembered by Graeme Ferguson, his children Munro Ferguson and Allison Ferguson and their families: grandchildren Ivan Ferguson, Joyce Ferguson (Pedro Cerna), Samuel Ferguson-Sharp (Melanie) and Lucas Ferguson-Sharp; their mother Eo Sharp (Charles); great-grandson Leo Cerna-Ferguson; and her sisters- and brother-in-law Janet Kroitor (the late Roman), Mary Hooper (Bob) and Bill Ferguson (Millie). Her life is celebrated as well by Lindsay Morgan and family, countless friends across the country and the IMAX family here and around the world.
A private cremation, handled by Cardinal Funeral Home in Toronto, has taken place. Her interment, conducted by the Everest Funeral Home, will take place at St Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery in Thunder Bay, where she will rest near her grandmother and relatives.
Please consider a donation in her name to the Beendigen Anishinaabe Women’s Crisis Home & Family Healing Agency in Thunder Bay or the South Muskoka Hospital in Bracebridge or the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the OSPCA. A film on Phyllis’s life is being created and will be shared soon.
Please buy yourself some tulips and remember Phyllis.
STELLA RUBY (née Polojko)
June 1, 1927 – March 29, 2021
The family of Stella (Polojko) Ruby sadly announces that Stella passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 29th. Stella leaves behind her children Michael and Paula (Martin), and grandchildren Michaela and Stefan. She was recently pre-deceased by her loving husband of 73 years Murray (in Dec.) and son Eric, as well as siblings Mary, Bill, Sophie, and Diana.
Stella was born in Espanola, a strong Ukrainian community 70 km west of Sudbury. In her late teenage years, she met Murray in Parry Sound upon his return from the air force during WWII. They married, moved to Huntsville, and later raised their 3 children in the town. Learning English at 5, Stella became a lifelong reader and supporter of the local library. She would take her 5 cents to the library every week to pick out a book. She remained a lover of books for the rest of her life. An enjoyer of the arts, she would attend both the local church plays/musicals, as well as jaunts to Toronto to the Royal Alexandra and O’Keefe Centre with her friends. Both Stella and Murray thoroughly enjoyed attending Huntsville’s wonderful Algonquin Theatre.
Stella was athletic since childhood. Starting off with softball, she eventually started skiing in the early ’60s along with her children at Tally Ho, and later to Hidden Valley as a charter member along with Murray. Murray and Stella were also very into tennis, where she thrived in the competitive scene. She played in many tournaments in both doubles and mixed doubles, where she and Murray won numerous trophies. Many winter holidays were spent either playing tennis in a warmer destination or skiing in the mountains with good friends. Friends were an important part of her life—she enjoyed an annual bridge getaway for many years, and met twice weekly at “the table of knowledge” for coffee for over 60 years.
Stella could always be seen out for her daily walks across town, and if weather did not permit, she would head to the Summit Centre or The Independent to put in her steps for the day. She thoroughly enjoyed annual autumn hikes/picnics with Murray and friends to Algonquin and Arrowhead Parks to view the fall colours. She also enjoyed lunch on the dock at the cottage and swimming with the grandkids in her later years.
Stella will be greatly missed by family, friends and many in the community, and she and Murray were a big part of the fabric of Huntsville. She ended her 93 years with a song, her lipstick on and a “toodle-oo”. Her family would like to thank the staff at Huntsville and District Memorial Hospital and Hospice Huntsville for their tremendous care. A gathering will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Donations may be made to: Hospice Huntsville, 100 Frank Miller Dr., Huntsville ON, P1H 1H7
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
GWENDOLYN DARLINE MURDY (Wilson)
February 27, 1934 – March 22, 2021
Gwen passed away peacefully at Muskoka Landing after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Predeceased by her parents Jack and Anne Wilson of Burk’s Falls, brother John (Gloria) and loving husband Deane. Loving mother of Deane (Wendy), Dana (Brett) and Jason (Michele), and proud Grammie of Emily (Nick), Brock, the late Gabriel, Kelsi, Christopher, Lucas and Ethan. Gwen’s family and friends missed her brilliant smile and companionship these last years.
Gwen graduated from X-ray Technician College in the late 1950s and took a position with Huntsville Hospital. Meeting Deane in Huntsville they were married September 5, 1959 and resided on Hunters Bay Drive for 50 years. Many friends of their children and grandchildren spent countless hours in their home and on the waterfront. The doors were always open.
Gwen had many interests. In the early years Gwen was a talented softball pitcher in Burk’s Falls. She enjoyed skiing and picked up tennis having a standing morning game at Grandview. She had the “Birthday Girls” who celebrated together and the “Bridge Girls” who played together for close to 50 years in her circle of friends. Gwen and Deane played couples bridge for years and the group extended their activities to ski trips, curling bonspiels and general shenanigans. She was an avid gardener, seen forever digging in their many gardens. Over the years many brides stood in front of those gardens for their photos.
As an active community member Gwen volunteered with the Hospital Auxiliary, Friends of Pioneer Village, and Meals on Wheels. Gwen contributed many hours to the fundraising initiatives for the new Huntsville Hospital and for the conversion of the old hospital into Fairvern Nursing Home. She and Deane were members of the All Saints Anglican Church family.
Gwen was dedicated to the Order of the Eastern Star, holding the offices of Worthy Matron, District Deputy, Grand Representative to Kentucky, Grand Officer and escort to Deane while he served in the Ontario Grand Chapter. She cherished their Grand Family and all the memories. Gwen saw almost every inch of Ontario as they criss-crossed the province travelling for the Eastern Star.
Grandchildren brought that twinkle to Gwen’s eyes. Never missing an opportunity to be part of their lives, she was often seen in the stands at sporting events, building sand castles on beaches or hosting sleepovers. They were the source of her greatest joy. It is of note that Grammie was the best KD maker out there.
All who were touched by her life were fortunate to have known her. A precious gift who will forever be remembered in our hearts.
The family wishes to express its deep appreciation to the caregivers at the Muskoka Landing who cared for her with such kindness and dedication through the last chapter of her life.
An intimate immediate family service is planned. We thank all for their kind words, strength and support at this time.
In Memoriam Gwen Murdy, donations to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Libor Frances Drabek
January 25, 1930 ~ March 22, 2021 (age 91)
Libor Frances Drabek passed away peacefully at Hospice Huntsville on Monday, March 22, 2021 in his 91st year. Libor was born in Czechoslovakia in 1930 and emigrated to Canada to freedom and new life. He was an Electrical Engineer for Ontario Power Generation/Ontario Hydro for the entirety of his career. He was a beloved husband of Jaroslava Drabek, who passed Christmas Day 2016. Father to Katerina Drabkova, Hana Cadova and Suzana Drabkova and step-father to Irene Greenburg. Grandfather to Martina Kasparcova and Jiri Kasperek and Lauren and Jason Greenburg. Libor will be fondly remembered by all who knew him as a Gentleman, ready with a compliment and always made people smile. Libor will be missed dearly by those who got to know him and by those to whom Libor became like family.
Nazdravi!
Cremation has taken place and a service will not be held at this time. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Hospice Huntsville. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Robert Donald (Don) Ward
July 22, 1926 – March 6, 2021
It is with great sadness our family announces the passing of our father, grandfather, great-grandfather.
Don passed to rejoin the love of his life Shirley on March 6, 2021 at the High River hospital with his family present at his side.
Don was born in Huntsville, Ontario on July 22, 1926 to Oliver McKenzie and Ethel May Ward and had four siblings, Jim, Roy, Allen and Mae. The little stone school at Williamsport is where he met his soul mate and partner for life Shirley Edna Birtch. They married on May 22, 1948 and had three children, Robert Douglas, Cheryl Ann and Susan Diane. Don was predeceased by his parents, siblings, son Robert Douglas, daughter Cheryl Ann, and soulmate of 61 years Shirley.
Lovingly remembered by his daughter Susan Cooper, son in law Brian Cooper, Grandson Eli Cooper, Grandson Isaac Cooper (Jenn Cooper), Great Grandchildren, Madison, Lilia, Caiden and Kylie. Don and/or Uncle Don will be missed by his Brother in Law, Sisters in law and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins all who thought of him as a kind and gentle man. He always wanted to know how everyone was.
Don owned his The Variety Mart in Huntsville and retired when he was only 52. Dad and Mom loved to travel and had pretty well covered the continent of North America. They camped, fished, explored and had many adventures year round. Through their travels they met wonderful friends many of who Dad was still in touch with. They moved from Ontario to Vernon BC to be closer to their children and Grandchildren, then to Nanton, AB. When Mom passed Dad moved to Okotoks where he had many friends and neighbours that visited and played cards. He got his little buddy Benji for company and they spent 9 years together as constant companions.
Special thanks to the following people and organizations for your compassion and care: High River Hospital Third Floor Unit, Dr. Adam Vyse, Dr. C Hoggard and Veteran’s Affairs Canada. You made his life so much more comfortable.
If you wish to honour Don’s memory the family has chosen the Royal Canadian Legion Nanton Branch #80 as the recipient. P.O. Box 299 Nanton, Alberta, T0L 0R0 Where Dad has been a member for 17 years.
Due to COVID restrictions, we will be having a small private family service for internment with a Celebration of Life when able to later in the Spring. To email condolences, please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, High River. (403-652-2222)
Passed away suddenly at her home in Utterson on March 6, 2021 at the age of 82. Shirley was born in Huntsville to the late George & Helen (née Hanes) Snowden. Pre-deceased by sibling Harry. She was a loving mother to Donald, predeceased (Eileen), Kevin (Janice) and grandmother to Jennifer (Robert) and Samantha (Darren). Shirley split her career in the dental field between Huntsville and Toronto. Upon retirement she returned to the Huntsville area. She owned several pets over the years and enjoyed feeding and watching the wildlife that frequented her property. Shirley enjoyed the churches and social groups she participated in and the many trips with Hammond Bus Lines with her friends. She was an avid sports fan and loved watching her Toronto Bluejays and made yearly trips to Toronto to see them. She was a strong independent women which helped her even when a debilitating stroke set her back. She will be sadly missed by family, friends and neighbours.
Due to COVID restrictions there will be no formal service – a private family gathering will take place upon the interment of her ashes at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, where she will rest with her parents and brother.
The family welcomes donations in Shirley’s name to your charity of choice.
Messages of condolences may be left at mitchellfuneralhome.ca.
LANGILLE, John Edward – of Huntsville, Ontario, died on Friday, March 5, 2021 in Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, Orillia, Ontario after an incredible battle to live. Dubbed Johnny to his closest friends, he was born August 5, 1964 in Middleton, NS. He was the beloved son of Harold and Mary Ann (Wentzell) Langille of Bridgewater.
Growing up John enjoyed such competitive sports as tennis, badminton and swimming where he was a five-time provincial under 16 champion in the butterfly stroke. John graduated from Bridgetown High School in 1984 after which he attended Mount St. Vincent University graduating with his Bachelor of Arts in history. Starting piano lessons at the age of 6 and clarinet through his entire secondary school years, it became clearly obvious that music was John’s first best love. Largely self-taught, John completed his formal piano training with the Toronto Conservatory of music during which time he found his true calling as an extraordinary church organist. Beginning at Nictaux Baptist Church he also worked at the West End Baptist Church in Halifax, Iona Presbyterian Church in Dartmouth finally settling in Trinity United Church in Huntsville Ontario where he was the music and choir director for 22 years. He had previously worked as a fine dining server at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville for many years. While there, he was the Supervisor of Staff housing, overseeing and influencing young adults from all over the world.
A talented and gifted soul, his challenging cantatas, anthems and piano solos at Trinity United Church were John’s way of sharing his love of music and God’s message in a way that touched the lives of all the souls he encountered. A true Christian in every sense of the word, he gave continually of himself. If he knew of someone who was sick or lonely, he would call them and play music for them as well as pray with them. He also played at many nursing homes. John’s story of leadership and charity was twice written and published in the local paper, The Doppler for his work, compassion and sense of humour. He was very much beloved and respected by everyone in his church family and the community of Huntsville. Before his health crisis, Johnny was anxiously looking forward to his return to his beloved Nova Scotia after his scheduled hip surgery in January, sadly this was not to happen.
Surviving are his parents, Harold and MaryAnn Langille; brother David (Darlene); sister, Cheryl (Darren) Pryde; aunt, Gayle Veinot, uncle Gary Langille, niece Emily Langille, nephews, Shane Langille, Brice Veinot, Anthony Durling, Tyler Gehue; many cousins and his dear friends, Les and Christina of Huntsville. He was predeceased by grandparents, Laurie and Ruth Wentzell and Harold and Helen Langille.
No visitation at the funeral home by request. Memorial service will be held 2 p.m, Saturday, March 13, in Bridgewater Baptist Church, Rev. Richard Moore officiating. Family flowers only, donations may be made to Trinity United Church (33 Main Street East, Huntsville, ON, P1H 2B8). Interment will take place at a later date in Parkdale – Maplewood Community Cemetery, Parkdale.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the ICU staff of Huntsville Hospital and Orillia Hospital for the exceptional care he received. The attention and care provided by Doctors Chan and Bailey and the entire ICU staff, as well as the time they took to keep John’s family informed and reassured was truly a blessing. The family would also like to thank Allister and Johanna Dunlop for all they have done in helping us through this difficult time. We could not have managed without you.
Johnny will be remembered passionately by anyone and everyone who met him.
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Clarence Jenkins
November 17, 1945 – March 7, 2021
We wanted to share with the community the passing of Clarence Jenkins in his 76th year. Clarence was a well-recognized figure around Huntsville for many years. He and his walker were often seen around town, and people would look forward to the nice weather when Clarence would sit outside Shoppers Drug Mart to watch the traffic go by and wave to those who would honk their horns to say hello. Thank you to those who did honk – it made him very happy.
Clarence and everyone who knew him was incredibly proud that he was able to complete the 5k walk for Band on the Run…more than once…and with two replacement hips. He was an inspiration to many.
This past year was a struggle for Clarence, but with incredibly compassionate and caring assistance from Community Living, he was able to retain his independence in his apartment. His last days were spent resting comfortably in the caring hands and beautiful surroundings of Hospice Huntsville.
His family, including brothers Bill and Bobbie, and his good friends Kelly Petman and Cheryl Stamper, would like to extend their thanks to the paramedics, the hospital and Hospice staff, and the members of Community Living who worked so hard to keep Clarence safe and well and independent over the years.
Due to Covid-19 considerations, there will be no funeral home visitation. Clarence will be laid to rest at Hutcheson Cemetery in May.
Joseph (Ross) Rosaire Gilbert
October 5, 1930 – March 6, 2021
It is with heavy hearts and sadness, the Gilbert family announces the passing of Ross Gilbert on March 6, 2021 following a short stay at the Huntsville Hospital. He was 90 years old. Ross was the beloved husband of (Nona) Ruth Gilbert (previously deceased on June 24, 2015) for over 51 years. Ross was the loved and cherished father, friend and mentor to his son Jeff Gilbert.
Ross was born in Whitton, Frontenac (Eastern Townships) Quebec on October 5, 1930 to Cyrille Gilbert and Amanda Garand. His siblings were Armand, Robert, Lionel, Leo, Fernand, Grace, Aurelien and Roland.
Ross was deeply loved and cherished by his family, Ruth’s family, nieces and nephews, as well as Ross and Ruth’s community of friends. Everyone will dearly miss him, but we are comforted knowing he had a long and active life and left a great impression on many.
Ross met Ruth at the Kapuskasing Curling Club in 1959 and they were married on November 9, 1963 in Kapuskasing, Ontario.
Ross attended the Leslie M. Frost Natural Resources Centre in Dorset for Ontario Forest Technical School and Lands Certificate training and education. He had a rewarding and successful career of over 38 years with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (formerly the Department of Lands and Forests), working in Kapuskasing, Parry Sound, Lindsay and Huntsville. From 1973 until his retirement in 1989, Ross was the Algonquin Region Lands Administration Manager responsible for Crown Land, working out of the Huntsville location.
Ross enjoyed and was passionate about sports, particularly hockey (a lifetime Montreal Canadiens fan), curling, golf, lacrosse and baseball. Ross had four career holes-in-one in golf and tremendously enjoyed golfing with friends following his retirement in 1989 and up to and including the 2020 golf season. An avid member of the Huntsville Curling Club from 1973 to 2018, he completed a term as Club President, won the 1978 Muskoka Lakes Men’s Bonspiel, helped develop and participated in the Muskoka Masters (curlers over 60 years of age) and Muskoka Grand Masters (curlers over 70 years of age) Curling Leagues, participated at the Ontario Grand Masters Provincial Curling Championships in 2009 and 2011 (winning the Second Event), skipped the 2017 Muskoka Lakes Mixed Bonspiel champions and won the 2018 South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club Competitive Mixed Club Championship at the age of 87 with his son Jeff.
Ross was a proud hockey, curling and lacrosse Dad, supporting and cheering on Jeff and his teammates. He completed a term as the President of the Huntsville Minor Lacrosse Association, was the Team Manager of the 1980 Huntsville Bantam “C” Hawks Canadian Lacrosse Champions, Team Manager of the 1982 Huntsville Midget “B” Hawks Ontario and Canadian Lacrosse Champions and the Team Manager of the 1987 Huntsville Junior “B” Hawks Founder’s Cup Canadian Championship Bronze Medalists who were inducted into the Huntsville Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.
Ross also believed in community involvement and was a member of the Kinsmen Club, volunteered for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Table Soup Kitchen and was a Huntsville Trinity United Church Trustee and Treasurer of Council.
Ross was the consummate family man, providing for and spending much quality time with Ruth and Jeff, loving his family and enjoying many wonderful family holidays, vacations and trips.
In his own words, Ross had a wonderful life. He always had a positive outlook and was proud of and loved his family. He was known for his smile, kindness and being a true gentleman. The world would be a kinder and better place if there were more people like Ross.
We wish to thank with the deepest gratitude Dr. Aoki, Dr. MacMillan and the caring nursing staff at the Huntsville Hospital for the excellent care that Ross had during his stay.
The family are planning a service to be held at Trinity United Church in Huntsville at a time when we are all able to gather and celebrate Ross. Rest in peace beloved one!
In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Raise a glass to the Milky Way, that’s where I’ll be
Joyce Christina Laver passed away peacefully in Huntsville with her husband Rob at her side Thursday February 25 after losing her 2 ½ year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Chris is survived by her husband Rob; siblings Bill (Deb), Linda (Nigel) and Tim (Kelly). Cherished nieces and nephews Scott, Kristie, Jodie, Christopher, Nathan, Chelsea, Kelly, William, Jack and Andrew, as well as her many great-nieces and nephews. Godmother to Jesse and Shelby. Deeply missed by her lifelong buddy Susan.
Chris was born in Hawkesbury Ontario on October 22, 1954, daughter of the late Ronald and Joyce Seay (née Hammond). Her early days were spent at the family farm, Seay’s Folly, in Grenville, Quebec visiting family and friends, riding horses, doing hay, swimming, BBQ’s and cross country skiing.
Despite humble beginnings, Chris took modest pride in her career as a sales representative in the railcar leasing business. 20 years at General Electric Railcar, followed by 17 years at Dallas-based Trinity Rail, retiring in 2020 as Senior Vice President of Sales. Chris broke many boundaries over those years, initially as one of the only women in the business and with Trinity Rail she established its first Canadian office and developed a nationwide customer base. She will be remembered for her mentorship, professionalism and friendship by clients and colleagues alike.
Chris lived a full life. Her interests were vast and varied and took her on some amazing journeys around the world. Whether skiing in the Rockies, exploring France, Spain, Africa, touring the markets of Southeast Asia, or riding on the Orient Express, she was always up for adventure, and a glass of chardonnay!
Above all, Chris was a people person. She loved to entertain at their beautiful home, Chickadee Pines on the shores of Lake Vernon. Witty, fun-loving, and generous, Chris was a wonderful hostess and a great friend. The memories she and Rob created for so many won’t soon be forgotten.
Chris’ greatest love of all, though, was for her husband of 35 years. To be with Chris and Rob was to be in the company of two people who were meant to be together. They loved and supported each other so beautifully that it was easy just to bask in their glow.
Appreciation to the great care Chris received from Huntsville Drs. Lindsay Macmillan, Murat, Jindal, and Small. RVH Drs. Ng and Kamra. Jaime and the team at Closing the Gap as well as the entire team in the chemo unit in Huntsville Hospital.
As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
Messages of condolence may be left at mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will occur when we can all give each other a hug.
Gone too soon, she will be missed by many.
BETTY ELLEN SWANSON (NÉE MCIELWAIN)
Betty Ellen Swanson, age 90, passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.
“Not one sparrow is forgotten, and we are so much more than sparrows to our heavenly Father,” to paraphrase Matthew 10:29-31 and one of Mom’s many favourite hymns, “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”
Beloved Mother of Gillian, Julia, and Darrel (deceased), and also a very special Grandmother, Sister and Sister-in-law, Aunt and Great-Aunt, Cousin, Friend, and Neighbour, is reunited in heaven with many loved ones, and fully healed. She passed away in Calgary, so near the Rocky Mountains that beckoned her westward on that first move sixty years ago.
Her love, faith, prayers, resilience and actions carried so many of us. She reached out to help so many people over the years, without regard to status or colour, some with medical needs, others struggling with addiction and recovery, some new to the country, and others with records and homeless. She enjoyed us all, and with such an openness and faithful compassion! She exhibited and shared an extraordinary grace, faith, humour, and dignity in dealing with so much, including her own losses and a lifetime with rheumatoid arthritis. In God’s loving kindness His mercies never end….
Mom was a long-standing member of Westview Baptist Church, and while family is separated not only by distance, but also by these Covid drenched times, family has decided to not make any participatory funeral or memorial plans at this time.
If friends and family so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Mustard Seed Street Ministry, 102 – 11 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 0X5 Telephone: (403) 269-1319, www.theseed.ca.
Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Betty’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.
In living memory of Betty Swanson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.
MORRISON, Frances Bernice (née Ritza)
The death of Frances Morrison (née Ritza) occurred on February 22, 2021 in Huntsville, Ontario, at the age of 94. Fran was born May 21, 1926 in Barry’s Bay, Ontario. Fran was predeceased by husband George Morrison, whom she married on April 7, 1951. Fran was an active member of the community, having volunteered for many years at the Huntsville Hospital and Fairvern Nursing Home. Fran was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League for over 50 years. She had a green thumb, evidenced by her many house plants that were constantly in bloom, and she enjoyed playing bridge, bowling, knitting, sewing, cake decorating and gathering with family.
Fran is survived by her children Mary (Dave) Brown, Joe (Leslie) Morrison, Rob (Lori White) Morrison and Karen (Trevor) Docherty. Fran is also survived by her grandchildren Lindsay Brown, Amy (Rich) Gargal, Tyler (Kari) Morrison, Mike Festing, Krissy (Kris) Goodman and great-grandchildren Tegan, Hadley, Claire, Brody and Lillian. Predeceased by grandson Shaun and great-grandson Hudson. She is survived by siblings Joan Aeling, Donald (Donene) Ritza and Marlene (Gerry) Keyes. Predeceased by siblings Bill, Roy, Tom & Violet.
The family offers a special thanks to all the staff at Fairvern Nursing Home, who provided Mom with such loving care and to Billingsley Funeral Home for their assistance at this time.
A private funeral mass will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Huntsville on February 25, 2021. Internment will take place in the spring. If desired, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Fairvern Nursing Home. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Patricia Power (Symes)
October 29, 1930 to February 17, 2021
On February 17, 2021, Patricia Power (Symes), age 90, peacefully passed away at Muskoka Shores Community Care, Gravenhurst, Ontario. She was a loving mother to Christine (Cameron) Enders, Martha (Allan) Johnston, and John (Melanie) Power & grandmother to Kristen, Melissa, Ben and Sam.
Patricia was born in Sarnia, Ontario, in 1930, to Lucy and James Symes. Her father passed away when she was 2 years old and her mom passed when she was 14 years old. She went to live with her Aunty Pearl and Uncle John Brown in Burlington. They provided her love, comfort, and wonderful opportunities, including their vacation time in Muskoka, Ontario. They encouraged her to pursue her education and desire to become a nurse.
Patricia was predeceased by her first husband, Hartley G. Holmberg, who passed away in 1965, resulting from an accident, and her second husband, John (Jack) R. Power, who passed away in 2013. Patricia lived in Algonquin Park and Richmond Hill, Ontario, with Hartley, until he passed away. A couple of years later, she married Jack and the family moved to southern New York State. Patricia’s nursing career spanned four decades. She worked in many areas of nursing: obstetrics, surgery, The Red Cross, health inspection, geriatrics, and ultimately became the Director of Nursing in a Healthcare Facility. After retiring, Pat and Jack moved to Ramseur, North Carolina and continued to enjoy Muskoka summers, at their cottage on Lake of Bays, with family and friends.
Pat was very social and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, throughout her life. She took great pleasure involving herself in many activities and volunteer projects. Her interests were: agility training dogs, gardening, knitting, sewing, quilting, playing piano, reading, educating herself on food and nutrition, doing crossword puzzles, watching her TV shows (NCIS, HGTV, and movies), and being active in the Anglican Church Community. Pat enjoyed music, concerts, ice hockey, and figure skating. She liked cooking/baking and made the best Sunday dinners for her family. Pat learned computer skills and used her cell phone and texting technology, until 2020. She signed her text messages, “Love, Mom or Grandma”, but later just signed off –’G’. With a nickname like ‘G’, she was forever young at heart. Her family has fond memories of her living aboard the ‘C2C’ 44-foot trawler, while exploring Lake Nipigon, Beardmore; campfires at the edge of Mary Lake, Port Sydney; and drives along Lake Ontario in Kingston & Prince Edward County.
In October 2020, her family was grateful to be able to celebrate her 90th birthday and her well-lived life. Pat was proud, strong-willed, and brave. She offered her children encouragement and was a ‘cheerleader’ to her grandchildren, whether it be sports, education, or travel adventures. Pat taught her family the importance of having empathy and being kind. She was a survivor. Pat was ‘spirited’, which may be attributed to her red hair!
Pat was many things to many people. She will be forever in our hearts and deeply missed by her family and friends, especially her dear friend of 68 years, June Trayes.
Sincere gratitude is extended to staff and associated resource personnel of Rogers Cove Retirement Home, Huntsville District Memorial Hospital, Muskoka Algonquin Health Care, South, Bracebridge, North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network, and Muskoka Shores Community Care. Thank you to her Muskoka Shores Community Care Physician, Dr. K.V. Dechert and staff for Pat’s ongoing, supportive medical care. This collective, compassionate, collaborative care supported Patricia during the past couple of years. Covid-19 has made the last year so difficult on so many levels. Fortunately, during the pandemic, Muskoka Shores Community Care designated her son as an essential caregiver, which allowed him to visit her face to face, so that they could FaceTime family members, on a regular basis.
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions, a celebration of Patricia’s life will be arranged at a later date.
In Patricia’s memory, the family welcomes donations to Muskoka Algonquin Health Care or a charity of your choice.
COOPER, Janet Lee (née Sanger)
Janet passed away at home in Huntsville on February 17, 2021, age 72. She was the daughter of Ernest Sanger and Jean Tracey of Toronto and the daughter-in-law of Vera and Arden Townsend (all deceased). Totally dedicated to family, she was the beloved wife of Wayne Cooper for 51 years and the loving mother of Michael (Theresa) of Lower Hutt, New Zealand and Patrick (Shaina Orr) of Etobicoke, and the proud Nana of Liam and Ronan Cooper, Lower Hutt. Also surviving Janet are her brother John Sanger, nephew Christopher Sanger (Simrit), niece Leigh Sanger (Kevin), sister-in-law Kay Weir, grandnieces Megan Larochelle and Ria Sanger, and grandnephew Jacob Steeper.
Janet was born and raised in Toronto, attended North Toronto Collegiate, worked for a decade in banking, and then became a full time stay-at-home mother in Etobicoke and Alliston. She was very active in various home and school events. Janet drove her boys to games and always provided loud vocal support.
For 30 years, she co-hosted family members (including the entire extended clan from New Zealand), long-time friends, and neighbours at the Cooper’s Clear Lake cottage. Janet is well remembered dispensing orders and quips from her easy chair. Her hobbies included reading and knitting – a local member of Knitters for Global Warmth.
Her ashes will be interred at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, Huntsville. The family welcomes donations in Janet’s name to your charity of choice. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Brian Douglas MaynardThe family of Brian Douglas Maynard are sad to announce his passing on February 17, 2021 at his home in Huntsville, Ontario.
Brian was born in Huntsville on November 19,1945 to Verna and the late Stan Maynard. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Nancy, son Doug (Jody) and daughter Debi (Walter) Coker. Proud grandfather of Scott (Jessica) Coker, Jeff (Olivia Jardine) Coker and Brittney and Matthew Maynard, great grandfather of Kyden, Brielle and William.
Also survived by siblings Edward (Barbara), Diane (Don) Moorhouse, Michael (Linda), Janice Trotter and Bette (Rod) Roberts.
Brian was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, flying and cutting wood. Spending time with his grandchildren was one of his greatest pleasures.
Brian was a proud volunteer fireman for 22 years with Huntsville Fire Department, Station #2.
Our family would like to thank Dr. Andy MacMillan for his professional, compassionate care for many years, Closing the Gap for providing experienced and reliable PSW care, notably Deanna and Allana and most recently The Algonquin Family Health Team for their support.
Following Brian’s wishes there will be no formal gathering. If desired, donations to Huntsville Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Brian enjoyed a life well lived.
The death occurred peacefully at home on Thursday, February 11, 2021 of George Snooks.
Loved by Georgie and dear father of Carrie, her husband Ray Oakley and their girls; Alyssa and Leigha Oakley, Andy Snooks and his wife Nancy and Andy’s son Brandon Snooks. Also survived by Mike Stuart and his wife Susan and their children; Alex and Maya Stuart. Brother of Marg Pelland (Homer- deceased), Barbara McQueen (Wayne- deceased), Carol Gunn (Bill), Des Snooks (Sue), Robert Snooks (deceased) and Doreen Snooks. Also survived by nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Sand Lake, please revisit the website below as details become arranged.
In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the Ontario Heart & Stroke Foundation, would be appreciated. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 7, 2021 at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in his 90th year. Ross is the beloved husband of Stephanie Rabjohn (née Shiner) of 70 years. Cherished father of Chris, Jeff and Jane. Proud grandfather of Scott, Melissa, Alex, Grayson, Chrissy and Alicia. Great-grandfather of Charlotte, Madeline, Sophie, Paul John and Mackenzie. Ross will be dearly missed by his extended family and many friends.
A memorial service will be held at Knox United Church in Dorset once Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Interment to follow at Paint Lake Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, www.huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
The family of Derek Mathews is saddened to announce his passing on February 6th 2021 in his 87th year at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. Derek was born in Croydon, England. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Dorothy Mathews and his younger brother David ,also his son-in-law, Terry. He was a kind and loving man who always made his family the first priority in his life. He will be forever missed by his wife of 62 years, Chris, his two daughters Helen (Tony), Tracy, and grandchildren Tyler (Carly), Kristen and Anthony and sister-in-law, June and her family in England.
Derek was always mechanically minded. He joined the British Army at 17 for a 3 year stint and went into the R.E.M.E., where he received his mechanic’s training. He served two years in what was then Malaya in support of the Somerset Light Infantry and the Gurkha Rifles by being responsible for the maintenance of trucks, generators and on the odd occasion an airplane. He took great pride in the military for the rest of his life.
Derek and his wife and baby daughter immigrated to Canada in 1967 where, for the rest of his working life, he was employed in various positions with the same electric fork lift truck company originally from Britain. He took great pride in our family cottage doing most of the work in and around it and where we had and have great friends and happy memories with much laughter. The family are also thankful to and for the great neighbours and friends in Huntsville who did much to enrich Derek’s life and continue to in support of his wife.
If desired, donations would be appreciated to Wounded Warriors of Canada, www.woundedwarriors.ca or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
LeBlanc, Raymond Patrick
The family of Raymond Patrick LeBlanc of Huntsville are sad to announce his passing at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital on Friday, February 5, 2021.
Raymond was born in Huntsville on October 1, 1958 to Patrick and Marguerite LeBlanc (both deceased), and was one of seven children. He was predeceased by his brother Robert and will be missed by siblings: Margaret and her husband Marcel Chiasson of Mississauga; Tom and his wife Nancy of Huntsville; Jim (Dorothy, deceased) of Huntsville; Gerald and his wife Karen of Huntsville; Kathy and her husband Jim Roussel of Port McNicoll, as well as 6 nieces, 4 nephews, 5 great-nieces and 7 great-nephews.
Raymond enjoyed a happy childhood at Buck Lake Dairy Farm, Ilfracombe and had many wonderful times with his siblings throughout the years. As a young boy he loved the outdoors – hiking, fishing, snow-shoeing and raising pet rabbits. As an adult he worked in retail positions in Huntsville and lived on a small portion of the family farm. The family take comfort that a family reunion was held in October 2019, the last time they were able to all gather.
Due to COVID restrictions there will be no formal service – a private family gathering will take place upon the interment of his ashes at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, where he will rest with his parents and brother. Expressions of sympathy can be made in the form of memorial gifts to The Huntsville Hospital Foundation. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Walter Peter Tarasick, 92, surrounded by his family, at his home in Kearney, Ontario, on February 5, 2021, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born October 16, 1928, in Windsor, Ontario, and predeceased by his parents, Fred and Anna Tarasick, and wife Anne (1996).
Walter graduated in 1951 with a degree in Engineering from the University of Toronto and went on to become an Ontario Land Surveyor, establishing Starr and Tarasick Surveying and Engineering, in Port Credit, Ontario, which prospered for many decades. His legacy is reflected today in many of the landmarks surveyed by his company in the Greater Toronto area and the offspring company which still includes his name.
Walter leaves behind his beloved wife Margaret Tarasick, and her children Susan, Lisa (Peter), Marianne, and Andrea (Paolo) and Maggie’s nine grand-children and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by children David (Susan), Catherine, Steven (Madeliene), Leslie, and their mother, Audrey, as well as grandchildren Nicole, Michael (Jacki), Dara (Gordon), Lauren (Shawn), Jordana (Baruch), Alex, Meaghan, Rebecca, Kate, Daniel (Rachel), Alicia (Ian), Nathan, Rachel, Matthew, and Ian, and great-grandchildren, namesake Walter, and Sullivan.
Walter’s passion for cottage life came to fruition when he single-handedly built the beloved family cottage on Big Hawk Lake in 1959. The legacy of the cottage carries on today remaining a favorite destination for children and grandchildren who will treasure memories of many gatherings there with grandpa and Maggie. Wally joined the annual ritual of the cottage closing this past September. As was tradition, he worked the hardest of all!
Wally always enjoyed life to the fullest, an avid golfer, canoeist, water-skier, reader, theatre patron, garlic gardener, and a world traveller over many years, with trips to almost every continent including the Arctic and Antarctica. And while Wally always savoured the richness of life, he never failed to think of others and was a benefactor to a wide range of charities, making annual donations over many decades. His last major project, at the age of 89, was building, with Maggie, his dream home on Lynx Lake, Kearney, where he has been able to enjoy a beautiful vista and a wonderful community of family and friends. Above all, Wally was a family man much beloved by the whole clan.
Great appreciation is expressed to Dr. Whaley (called “my hero” by Wally), Norma Connolly, Stephanie Holtz and many other medical professionals for their excellent care and compassion. Thank you also to the wonderful neighbours and family members for endless support and acts of kindness.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Walter may be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, via the website: huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca. or to a charity of your choice. Donations and online condolences may also be made through the Billingsley Funeral Home website: www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Burmeister, Carlos Mateo EricWith the heaviest of hearts, we must announce the passing of Carlos who lost his courageous battle with cancer on January 27th, with his family at his side. Husband, best friend and soulmate of Kelly (Gates) beloved father of Joshua, Devon and Peyton, son of Klaus Burmeister and Eva Ledesma, brother to Carmen (Roland) and Claus (Helene). Carlos will be remembered by many nieces and nephews as well as many close friends. His genuine laugh and outgoing nature endeared him to everyone he touched. While Carlos enjoyed a long and successful career with Opentext, his first loves were his family, soccer and his community. Although very humble, Carlos was a pillar of minor sports for Huntsville and served for many years not only as a trainer/coach in minor hockey but was also a driving force within the Huntsville Soccer Club. Carlos found true joy in working with and teaching young REP soccer players, both boys and girls. His calm, inspirational leadership, skills and love for the game made him a role model favourite with both his players and their families. Carlos believed that
“every kid should have their own soccer ball”. It is for this reason we have set up the TEAM CARLOS FOUNDATION to provide kids in need with their own soccer ball. The Huntsville Soccer Club is naming an annual tournament in Carlos’ name and will also assist the foundation in distributing soccer balls to children internationally.
Expressions of sympathy and in lieu of flowers donations can be forwarded to the Team Carlos Foundation at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/team-carols-every-kid-needs-a-soccer-ball
Arrangements have been entrusted to Billingsley Funeral Home where cremation has taken place as per Carlos’s wishes. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions a Celebration of Life is planned for this summer on the McCulley-Robertson Soccer field in Huntsville (date to follow). We will celebrate his life, his love and his need to make the world a better place.
It is with the deepest of regret that we share the news that Valerie McMullan, aged 63, has died suddenly in her beloved home on Bella Lake outside of Huntsville on January 25th, 2021.
Val leaves behind Peter Ham, her cherished partner and caregiver of over 25 years along with their much-loved dog Fergus.
Val also leaves behind her brother Lawrence and his wife Denise, and Val’s sister Denise all of Ottawa. In Toronto she leaves her cousin and honourary sister Allyson (Dean) and many more family members back in Belfast including her dear Aunt Jean. She was an amazing aunt to her many nieces: Ashley, Rachel, Hilary and Grace and nephews: Bayley, Alex, Vincent and Oliver, all of whom loved her dearly and are devastated by this loss.
Val is predeceased by her parents Rita and Harry McMullan and her cherished niece Sydney.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Val grew up in Ottawa before moving to Toronto and then ultimately landing in the beautiful Muskokas. Having started out to be a nurse she pivoted to a successful career in finance that lasted many years and at which she excelled. In fact, Val was the first female branch manager of Central Guaranty Trust before moving on to Adelaide Capital Corp. Val was a wonderful cook and host. She loved her food, good wine, her books, movies, documentaries, and most of all, her family and friends.
She had a quick wit, a great sense of humour and impeccable style. She also had a beautiful singing voice which was one of the many things taken by Parkinson’s. Despite her incredible zest for life, she had a body that was inflicted by many challenges and in the end, it was her strongest feature, her heart, that failed her.
As requested, Val’s body will be cremated and a service will be held at a time when we are all able to gather and celebrate the wonder that was Val. Rest in peace beloved one!
If desired, donations can be made in her honour to the charity of your choice. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
GOODWIN, Beatrice MaryIt is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom and nana, Beatrice Mary Goodwin (Campbell) at the age of 93.
Bea will be forever remembered by her daughter Kathi (Kate) Oben and her husband Ken, her grandson, Keith Oben, her niece Elizabeth (Liza) and family and extended family and friends. Beatrice was predeceased by her parents, Catherine and Michael Campbell, her brother Michael and her sister, Sadie, her first husband, David and second husband, Norman. Bea will be forever remembered by her loving family.
Bea was born in Toronto and later moved to Huntsville, Ontario along with her first husband David A. Hollingshead. She retired as head secretary at Huntsville High School. Bea lived and travelled extensively with her family living in Brazil and Fort McMurray and Calgary and travelling to New Zealand, Bermuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, England, Scotland, Belgium and France and also toured throughout Canada and the United States extensively with her husband Norman Goodwin. She was devout in her faith and loved and cherished her family. Her grandson, Keith was the apple of her eye for the last 24 years and she was very proud of his strength of character and his accomplishments. Bea was fiercely proud of her Scottish heritage. Bea was kind, gentle and generous and a true lady. She was active in politics and loved poetry and music and was the first to admit she was tone-deaf.
Bea recently developed dementia and happily remembered all family members and family dogs (generations past and present) being together with her in her present moment. Bea resided at Scenic Acres Retirement Residence in Calgary at the time of her death and after five or six heart attacks, five stents and numerous cardiovascular episodes her big and generous heart finally gave out. Beatrice, Kathi, Ken and Keith greatly appreciated the warmth, compassion and amazing care shown by the staff of Scenic Acres. We are truly and forever grateful.
A private, family service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Calgary, Alberta.
Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.edenbrookcemetery.ca.
Passed away peacefully at home on January 22, 2021 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Carol (née Mason). Survived by his brother Ron (Peggy) and his sister Victoria. Loving father of Christine (Justin) and Myles. Cherished grandfather of Ryan. Predeceased by his mother Lillian (Sue) and father William (Howie) Schmidt. He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews, extended family, countless friends and his beloved dog.
Jay was born in Montreal, Quebec and while living there Jay worked in the photography and floral businesses until he moved to Ontario when he began his career as a contractor and helped many people with his skilled craftsmanship.
Jay and his family had a love of cottage life creating treasured memories together at Lac Gaumond in the Laurentians. Jay’s love for this life continued with his wife Carol and their children at their family cottage on Loon Lake where so many gatherings, celebrations and unforgettable memories were made together with friends and family.
Jay enjoyed sailing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, music, and building things just for the sheer pleasure of creating. He also enjoyed boating and spent endless hours on the lake creating the best rollers for the ultimate tubing experience for those brave enough to try. He will be fondly remembered for his bright smile, outstanding sense of humour, ingenuity, passion for life, and his incredible love for his family, friends and animals.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to Jay’s care team of doctors and staff at Royal Victoria Hospital, Huntsville District Memorial Hospital and a special thank you to Dr. Stewart, Norma Connolly of the Hope Huntsville Palliative Care Team, Cathy Hockey and the nurses and PSWs of ParaMed. Together you each contributed significantly to Jay’s comfort and care over the last year.
In light of the current restriction due to the global pandemic and for the well-being of everyone, a private service with immediate family will take place on January 29th at 3:00 pm which will be available to live stream via Jay’s memorial page located on the Billingsley Funeral Home website.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations in memory of Jay can be made to Enliven Muskoka www.enlivenmuskoka.ca or the SPCA Bracebridge. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
STICKLAND, Iris “Gloria”A private family service will take place on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at Billingsley Funeral Home. Live streaming will be available to family and friends unable to attend due to Covid-19. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to a charity of choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Janet Lynn Gambrell (Porter) passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at home on Lake of Bays in Muskoka, on Thursday January 14th, 2021.
Daughter of the late Jack and Anna Porter. Beloved wife of Bill Gambrell. Cherished mother of David (Linda) and Sarah (Zak). Adored Nana of Ryan, Alex, Anna, Jake, Knowl and Hugh. Treasured big sister to Bruce and David Porter.
Janet was more then a mentor and a role model. She was a trailblazer. Janet was a tenacious advocate for educators, administrators and newcomers to Canada. The footprint she has left is extraordinary.
Janet loved her family more than anything. She was happiest at the cottage, on the golf course or traveling the world.
Her infectious smile will be missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, any donations made to the Palliative Team through the Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/janetgambrell
A private service will be held for the family, with a celebration of life at a later date.
https://www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca/obituaries-1/2021/1/16/janet-lynn-gambrell-1
Yvonne Cowan, October 17, 1947 to January 13, 2021
With profound sadness we announce the passing of Yvonne. She left us peacefully at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in her 73rd year. Yvonne is remembered and survived by her husband of 36 years William (“Bill”), sons Justin and Michael (Marina), sisters Patricia (Doug, predeceased) and Anne (Ron), nieces Keri-Ann (daughter Caitlyn), Lesley (Verne, daughters Lexia and Larissa) and nephew Derek (son Liam, daughter Molly).
Yvonne was born in Belfast Northern Ireland, coming to Canada in her sixth year by way of ocean liner with parents Elizabeth and Robert (both predeceased) and her sisters. She and her family settled in downtown Toronto where she spent most of her young and adult life.
She was such a driven woman, and when entering her working career, she undoubtedly flourished. Starting with Sears Canada in her 20s in administration, quickly moving on to in-store management, head office in the buying department and finally rising to her pinnacle as National Marketing Manager. Her job gave her great joy and opportunity entailing frequent travel allowing her to explore, be adventurous and meet new people along the way.
Upon retirement she and Bill moved to Huntsville allowing her to spend time doing the things she loved most; volunteering with local Christian and charitable organizations, gardening, hiking, swimming, spending time by the lake and most importantly entertaining and spending time with loved ones and friends. Amongst her many passions travel ranked near the top. Her curiosity to learn and experience life took her to many destinations in Canada, the United States and Europe. She would often remark that when she was in Destin, Florida she felt as if she was home. Her many years in Destin and Northern Florida gave her countless fond memories and provided her with warmth, sandy beach walks, shopping and endless sunsets that would sink into the Gulf.
Yvonne was a deeply caring, loving and dedicated woman, who enjoyed life to the fullest, with her family, her friends and her many interests. She had an impact on all the people she met and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. With her outgoing personality and kind ways, she made everyone’s lives she touched better and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Yvonne, you left the world a better place for being in it.
The funeral service was held on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at Billingsley Funeral Home. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
SOLLMAN, Leatrice “Joy” (née Thompson) passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Fairvern Nursing Home at the age of 90. Joy is predeceased by husband Stanley and daughter Carol Oke. She is loved and cherished by her daughter Sherry and her husband Neil Markle. Proud grandmother of Heather Baker (Paul), Christopher Oke, Greg Oke, Brad Oke, Carmen Yeo (Jeff) and Ryan Markle (Brandi). Great-grandmother of Matthew and Ethan Baker, Zachery Oke, Paige and J.J. Oke, Hailey and Cameron Oke, Cameron and Jenna Yeo and Mikayla and Regan Markle.
Mom was a devoted mother and friend. She enjoyed cooking, spending time with family and helping others. She was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need and often did just that.
“To Those I Love”
When I am gone, release me, let me go
I have so many things to see and do
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love. You can only guess
How much you gave to me in happiness
I thank you for the love you have shown
but now it’s time I traveled on alone.
So grieve awhile for me if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It’s only for a while that we must part
So bless the memories with your heart.
I won’t be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near
and if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear
All of my love around you soft and clear.
And then, when you must come this way alone
I’ll greet you with a smile, and welcome you home.
Anonymous
A funeral service will not be held at this time due to Covid-19 restrictions. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers donations to Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Wilcox, Nora YvonnePassed away peacefully at Oak Terrace in Orillia on Monday, January 11th, 2021 in her 87th year. Nora Wilcox (née Sansall), loving mother of Phyllis Fockler (Gord), Karen Lacey (Terry), Donna Calina (John), Mary Ann Van Arem, Norine Malloy (Dorian) and Daniel Wilcox. Cherished grandmother of 11 grandchildren and 7 greatgrand children. Nora will be dearly missed and remembered by her family and friends. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or services at this time. If desired, memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society may be made through the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street East, Orillia, L3V 1L1, 705 327-0221. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca
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Passed away peacefully with family at his side on Sunday, May 30, 2021, at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in his 76th year. Ted is the beloved husband of 54 years to Paulette Davis (nee Cooper) of Huntsville. Cherished and much-loved father of John, Shelley (Chris) and Tammy (Mike). Proud papa of Lynsey (Rob), Natasha, Karlie (Chris), Frank (Kelsey), Aron, Ashly, Marilyn and Victoria. Great Papa of Gage, Jackson, Cooper, Max and Scarlette. Ted will be dearly missed by his extended family and friends.
The family would like to thank the palliative care team, the doctors and nurses at the Huntsville Hospital Dialysis Unit for the exceptional care and support given to Ted and family. A private family graveside service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, at Locks Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation – Dialysis Unit. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
MARTIN-HENDERSON, Karen Louise
Passed away peacefully on May 9, 2021 at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in her 67th year. Karen is the loving daughter of the late Clarence and Jean (née Groat) Martin who was born in Toronto on August 26, 1954. Beloved wife of Stuart Henderson of Kearney. Mother to Joel Best and Tamara Best. She will be missed by her sister Pam (Rudy) Roth, brothers, John (Sandra) Martin, Steven Martin and sister Teresa Martin-Hughes. Karen will be lovingly remembered by her close friends Cathy Arnold and Janice Therrien.
In keeping with Karen’s wishes, cremation has taken place. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Canadian Addison Society. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Al went to be with the Lord on May 19, 2021. He passed peacefully in his sleep at home with his family at the bedside. Al was a beloved husband to Elizabeth for 61 years, a devoted father to Grant, Tracy (Carl Nelson) and Jillian (David McDougall). He was also a very proud grandfather to Emily, Carlie and Eli McDougall.
Predeceased by his parents Herbert and Pheobe Clarke and his brother Wilbert. Mourning his loss are his brothers Ian and Ynyr and his sister Audrey Gaythwaite.
Al was born in 1935 in Northern Ireland. His passions and pursuits included soccer, track cycling and music. He enjoyed playing piano and accordion. He emigrated to Canada in 1956 to join his brother Ian in Toronto. As a young man he had many adventures travelling in the western provinces and playing soccer for Calgary. Al and Elizabeth were married in 1960. He began a successful pharmaceutical sales career in 1962 and later transitioned to the furniture industry, representing companies in Ontario, Quebec and U.S.A. After retirement in 2009, he and Elizabeth moved to Muskoka to be near family. Al’s faith and trust in God has been the foundation to his life. He was a joyful person, always optimistic, friendly, welcoming and caring. He had a kind and encouraging word for each and anyone and showed compassion to all he met. Al loved his family well and will be sorely missed.
In keeping with Al’s eternally grateful spirit, the family wishes to thank Dr. Hudson, Dr. Lam and team, also the wonderful Hope Huntsville Palliative Care team. Thank you to our thoughtful neighbours in Port Sydney, whose kindness has meant so much to the family.
Due to Covid restrictions, a private funeral service will be held at Faith Baptist Church on Thursday, May 27, 2021.
June Elizabeth Marlene Harris (Shepherd)
June passed away peacefully, in her 81st year, with her family by her side, on May 14, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Hospice in Huntsville, after a lengthy illness.
Beloved wife of Melvyn Carr Harris for 58 years. Dear mother to Carolee, Wray (Christine) and Glen (Gorete). Loved grandmother to Chloe, Raehanna, Holton, Gwenyth, Grace and special grandmother to Kyle. Cherished sister of Max Shepherd of Windsor, daughter of Agnes and Elmer Shepherd (both deceased) of Parkhill. Dear niece of George (deceased) and Betty Prest of Brinsley and Marwood and Marjorie Prest (both deceased) of Exeter. June was aunt to Barry, Brandi and Justin Shepherd. In addition, she was aunt and sister-in-law to many in the Harris family. June had numerous cousins, special mention to Jim, Wayne, Bev (deceased) and Brian Prest, Cindy Davidson (Prest) and Bill Prest (deceased). She had many dear friends, especially Irene, April (deceased), Margriet, Phyllis (Joe, deceased) and Pat.
June was born in Lieury, Ontario near Parkhill and married Mel in 1963. She lived in London, Nobleton, Ufford and Baysville. June was born a farm girl and later had her own farm in Ufford, focusing on her goats and horses. She had a fierce love for her dogs, kitties and all other animals. She welcomed all to her home, with a warm heart and welcome smile. She loved to serve as hostess, preparing her specialty roast beef, followed by a great game of euchre. She adored her country music, her flower garden, her television programs but above all else, she loved her family.
Sincere gratitude to the staff of Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare at Bracebridge and Huntsville locations, as well as to the physicians, nurses, and support workers at the Algonquin Grace Hospice.
In keeping with June’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be scheduled when provincial assembly restrictions permit.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local SPCA or the Algonquin Grace Hospice.
mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Cameron Frederick White, January 26, 1938 – May 19, 2021
The time has come to say goodbye to a wonderful man and amazing husband, father and friend who passed away last evening.
Those who were lucky enough to know Cameron, felt the unconditional love that he gave to his family, friends and extended family who he treated as though they were his own. We are forever grateful for the kindness and integrity he instilled in us through the example of his life.
Cameron was born in Mar, Ontario, the second oldest of six children born to Oliver and Evelyn White. Cameron spent his childhood on the family farm surrounded by a large, close-knit family.
After high school, Cameron moved to the ‘big city’ starting his professional career at Bell Canada, which soon brought him to St. Catharines where he met the love of his life Barbara Brooks. Dubbed the “new fella”, Cameron found himself part of the social and fun-loving Brooks family. A big adjustment from his life on the farm but one that he embraced whether he liked it or not. Cameron and Barbara were married, June 23, 1962 and never looked back. Their adventures together involved many moves, to Ottawa, Mississauga and Brantford, eventually settling back in St. Catharines where they would raise their three children Kate, Julia and Chris.
Though Cameron worked hard and traveled often, during his time with John Deere, he was always there for his family. Coaching Chris’ baseball teams when he could and being there to encourage his daughters when they needed him. One thing we always knew is our Dad had our backs and would do anything for us.
When grandchildren came along, Cameron flourished in his new role. He spent hours loving them as infants and entertaining them as toddlers, encouraging them as they grew. Grandpa was their go-to for walks in the woods and fishing off the dock. And he loved nothing more than to welcome his growing family into his home and watching as the action unfolded around him. Grandpa was always there to send his grandchildren off with a handshake and warm hug.
The community remembers him for his time as a proud member and past president of the Rotary Club of Huntsville. Cameron loved his Muskoka community, volunteering and giving back to those who enriched his life and the lives of others.
Without a doubt, the greatest gift that Cameron gave to his family was the gift of his time and his unconditional love. He will be missed immeasurably.
He requests that donations be made to the Rotary Club of Huntsville so they may continue to serve others.
A Celebration of Cameron’s life will take place when possible at his favorite place, on the dock, with the sun dipping below the horizon and surrounded by friends and laughter.
The family would like to thank the wonderful medical staff at Huntsville District Hospital and special gratitude to the staff at Hospice Huntsville for making his last days graceful.
Cameron is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara, three children, Kate, Julia and Chris (Heather). Seven grandchildren, Cameron, Carlyn, Olivia, Graydon, Carmen, Trevor and Jake. He is further survived by his siblings, Irvine, Henry (Marlene), Patricia (Forbes), Charles (Jan) and Margaret. Cameron also leaves behind life-long friends and family Ron and Sally Brooks, Judy Brooks and Chris Brennan.
He was welcomed to heaven by his granddaughter Carmen Leolani, as they surely took their place on the dock with fishing rod in the water and enjoying a huge bowl of ice cream.
BARDEN, Trevor Richard
July 14, 1946 – May 10, 2021
Passed away peacefully at The Pines Long Term Care Home in Bracebridge, Ontario on Monday, May 10, 2021 at age 74. Beloved husband of Rosalind Elizabeth Harris for 47 years. He will be greatly missed by his son, Colin of Utterson, brother Paul (Lars) of Corvallis, Oregon and brother Joel (Deb) of Coldwater, Ontario. Predeceased by his parents Joseph and Joyce Barden, his brother Bryan and his sister Pamela Barden. Also mourning his loss are sisters-in-law Brenda (John) Baker, Pat (Dave) McPhail and brother-in-law Bill Harris, along with nine nieces and nephews and their spouses and children.
Trevor was born in East York, Ontario and moved with his family to Port Severn and Coldwater. He went to Park Street Collegiate in Orillia and graduated from Ryerson Polytechnical Institute in Civil Technology. Before and after graduation he worked for McCormick and Rankin, Engineers and Bailey Construction in Orillia. In 1973, he met Roz on a blind date on Friday, the 13th of April and they were married the following year on Groundhog Day (so that Trevor would never forget his wedding anniversary). For five years they lived in Orillia until Trevor took a job with Fowler Construction in Bracebridge in 1979. He worked as a Supervisor, Estimator, Sand Camp Supervisor and finally, as Purchaser.
Weekends in the summer were spent with Roz and Colin at the Harris family cottage near Pointe au Baril, Ontario. Annually since 1973, the “Harris Lake Gang”, a group of Trevor’s school friends and their spouses, would gather at the cottage for a fun-filled weekend of stories, libation and good food. Over the winter months, when he could take vacations, Trevor liked to travel. He went with Roz (and sometimes Colin or Roz’s brother Bill) to Florida, California, Nevada, Arizona, Columbia, Jamaica, Venezuela, and Costa Rica.
In 2002, Trevor received a devastating diagnosis of Huntington’s Disease. Unable to work any more because of his disability, he and Roz bought a trailer and toured the East Coast of Canada and then headed to Arizona for the winter. Trevor and Roz continued to travel to Tucson together for 15 years, enjoying the company of friends from all over Canada and the United States.
Trevor’s biggest passion was fishing! He spent countless hours in “The Fishing Machine” searching for “the big one” on Harris Lake and surrounding waters. He enjoyed annual fishing tournaments with friends both in the Huntsville area and at the cottage (where the guys tried to out-fish the women). Trevor never really cared about whether he caught any fish, he just liked being out there fishing. It was a passion that he passed on to his son Colin. Even in the latter years, Trevor enjoyed fishing from the family pontoon boat.
Trevor was an armchair sports enthusiast for most of his life. He loved to watch baseball, hockey, basketball and especially, professional golf on TV. Every Thursday to Sunday for the past 15 years or more, you could find Trevor watching the current PGA tournament. He could always tell you where they were playing, who was winning and how the Canadian players were doing. One of the highlights of his life was seeing his favourite players, including Tiger Woods, at Match Play tournaments in Tucson.
From the time he was a teenager, Trevor was an avid stamp collector. He was an active member of the Muskoka Stamp Club and the Tucson Stamp Club. For as long as he was physically able, he worked on and enjoyed his collection of Canadian and World stamps.
Trevor’s family would like to thank the many Personal Support Workers, Social Workers, Nurses, Doctors, other medical professionals, volunteers and dear friends that helped care for him throughout his journey with Huntington’s. And though his time there was short, they would like to thank the staff of The Pines Long Term Care Home for their compassionate care. Almost since Trevor was diagnosed, the Huntington’s Clinic at North York Hospital has been an important resource and source of support for the family.
At Trevor’s request, there will be no formal service. A celebration of life with family and close friends will occur at a later date. Donations in Trevor’s memory may be made to The Huntington Society of Canada, Hospice Huntsville, The Friends (Parry Sound) or the charity of your choice. In his honour, take some time and go fishing.
EVANS-TAVERNER, Barbara Anne (nee Fielding)
Barbara Anne Fielding grew up on the shores of Fairy Lake with her dad Jim, mom Ivy and her younger brother Jimmy. Summers were fun filled with lots of tourists who vacationed at their Lakeview Cottage Resort. An excellent swimmer, Barb swam across Fairy Lake. Dogs were her constant companions all her life. In 1955, at the age of 18, Barbara began her teaching career at the Canal in a one room school. Teaching in Scarborough and Orangeville followed before returning to Huntsville. Barb loved her students who in return loved their teacher. Teaching and caring for Kirk and Scott filled her days. She served a term as president of the FWTAO and in 1990 retired from the Muskoka Board of Education. Sunday School, Books for Newborns, World Vision, Probus – just a few on her list of activities. Retirement years were filled with gardening, art projects, golf and playing in her ladies’ bridge group. In winters, Barb and her husband Ron loved to socialize in Florida where golf and cards filled happy hours with old and new friends. In later years with unsettled health, Barb moved into Muskoka Shores Care Community . She passed away on May 9, 2021.
Beloved wife of Ronald Taverner. Loving mother to sons Scott and his wife Terri and the late Kirk Evans. Dear sister of Jim (Nancy) Fielding, Nancy (Glen) Taverner and Eric (Lisa). Proud grandmother of Cailin and Amelia. Barb will be remembered by her niece Maiya (Ryan) Merritt, nephews Regan( Elsbeth)Fielding and Jimmy (Tracey) Fielding.
Due to covid and travel restrictions for son Scott and wife Terri who reside in South Korea, a Celebration of Life will occur at a later date. Barb will be laid to rest at All Saints Anglican Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Huntsville Hospital Foundation, World Vision, or a charity of your choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Passed away peacefully at his home in Port Sydney on Wednesday, May 12, 2021. Beloved husband of the late Janet (nee Morris) Simpson who predeceased Ben in 2001. Father of Valerie Boasley of Bracebridge and Laurie and her husband Sandy Milne of Port Sydney. Cherished grandfather of Michelle, Melissa (Bill), Ben, Devon (Rachel), Aaron and Trevor. Proud great-grandfather of Sean, Garrett and Kara. Ben will be missed by his brothers-in-law Leslie (Beth) Morris and Steve (Pat) Morris.
The family would like to thank Dr. Mathies, the nurses and staff at CCAC for all their incredible support and the care received. Cremation has taken place. A graveside service will take place at a later date. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Bernard Hebner of Huntsville, passed away peacefully at Granite Ridge, Gravenhurst on Friday May 7th, in his 83rd year. Bernie is survived by his children, Kelly, Donal and Lisa, 5 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren. Survived by siblings Marjorie Blackburn, Laura Wilson, Anita (Earl) Bryant, Gregory (Sylvia) Hebner, Nancy (Richard) Schroder and Rudy Hebner. Predeceased by his siblings Pat (Earl) Gray, Carole Troughton and Barbara Hammond.
Bernie was a fiercely independent person who was happiest in the bush. He enjoyed the simple things in life, such as coffee and a good breakfast of bacon and eggs. He was so dedicated to those simple things, that he orchestrated “the great escape” also known as “a jail break”, with i.v. pole in tow, to get to Timmies, while waiting in hospital for a quadruple bypass. But on a serious note, he was extremely funny and witty, generous, a lifelong blood donor, has won an award for bravery. (The one time he received official recognition for coming to the aid of others, of which there are numerous occasions.)
He will be especially missed by Kelly (Rob), Lisa (Mike), Robert and Andrew (Cara)
In keeping with Bernard’s wishes, cremation will take place. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
BEAMAN, Alberta A. “Bert”
“A Grand Lady of the Lake”
Alberta, a long-time resident of Lake of Bays, Muskoka, passed away peacefully of heart failure on May 1st in her 91st year after a very brief decline in health. While her mind stayed strong until the very end, ultimately her generous heart succumbed to age and she slipped away peacefully at Huntsville District Hospital. Thank you to the medical staff for their kind care and consideration.
Born in March, 1930, Alberta “Bert” spent her formative years and career in Brantford, Ontario where her keen eye for organization helped her excel in office management at the credit bureau business. In 1972 she and husband Clifford T. Beaman (deceased) relocated, building a lakeside home near Huntsville where she resided ever since. A passionate nature-lover, she was truly in her element!
Never idle, Alberta was blessed with an active life filled with numerous friends and rewarding hobbies, particularly her beloved gardening, and was fortunate to be able to pursue them right to the end of her life. She taught herself culinary cooking, bowled, enjoyed countless theatre shows, voraciously consumed mystery novels, and for 50 years hosted family and friends in style at her home on the lake. In the off-season, she was a passionate globetrotter who visited scores of countries over the years, first on safaris and touring vacations and then on cruises to far-flung places.
She is lovingly survived by her sister June Cooper, her stepson Roger Beaman (Dana), nieces and nephews Karen Ayles (Steve), Kim Thrush (Bob), Sandra Beamer (David), Barry Cooper (Nola), and Darryl Cooper as well as step-grandchildren Amy Osborne (Josh), Tom Beaman (Andrea), Ian Beaman (Katie) and many great-grandchildren. Countless other friends will miss her timeless elegance and class, her willingness to listen but never judge, and her easy smile.
Alberta was buried next to Clifford at Mount Hope Cemetery in Brantford; a remembrance is planned at a later date. Donations to her favorite charity The Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be welcomed in lieu of flowers. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
May she Rest in Peace.
Maureen Carole Newton-Mason (Nee-Smibert) passed peacefully on Saturday, May 1, 2021, at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. She was surrounded by her children, Jeff and Chris Mason, her loving sister Wanda Smibert and companion Maurice McGill.
Born in Stratford, Ontario, to Archie and Lydia Smibert in 1937. Dear sister of Barry, Vaughn and Wanda Smibert. Beloved mother to sons; Jeff (Heather) Mason (of Ottawa Ont) and Chris (Riva) Mason (of Abbotsford BC). Grandmother to Ryan (Trevor), Krista, Cole (Destiny) and Sean Mason; and her nephews, Scott (Lisa) and Trevor (Lisa) Smibert.
She will be dearly missed by Maurice McGill of Huntsville. He was a wonderful companion over the past number of years. We are grateful for his dedication to our mother. A special thank you to Scott Johnson, for his watchful eye and for always being there.
Nursing was her calling and graduated as a RN in 1958. She worked in numerous nursing specialties and was a role model in her profession. Fondly remembered by life-long extraordinary friends, her nursing fraternity, church community and her work with Huntsville Hospice.
She had a full life, anchored by her love of family and friends. She had a passion for German Shepherds, loved the outdoors, driving tours, cooking and eating her favourite ice cream; pralines n’ cream. She enjoyed exploring different cultures and visiting historical venues, travelling the world. She especially looked forward to special calendar events to decorate her home and get all dolled up to celebrate the occasions.
We have been over-whelmed by the love and support our family has received from her loving family and friends. She will be truly missed by everyone she touched.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either Huntsville Hospice or the Ontario Heart and Stroke Foundation.
Due to COVID -19, please monitor this site for further information on a funeral service and/or public celebration of life to be held at a later date.
Betty Fulton
1932 – 2021
Betty Fulton, daughter of Bruce and Frances (née Capell) Hunter, passed away peacefully at Heatherwood Retirement Residence with family at her bedside on April 26 in her 89th year.
Betty was born in St. Catharines and raised on her parents’ farm on Linwell Road, attending Maplewood Elementary School and St. Catharines Collegiate.
Betty is predeceased by her husband Chesley and son Larry. She will be greatly missed by her four surviving children. Clyde (Judith) Fulton, Brian (Lisa Mucciante) Fulton, Donna White (Brian), Scott (Cindy Fallon) Fulton, Daughter-In-Law Donna Fulton and their chosen Bequian Canadian son Amos and his wife Alice and children. Also mourning her passing are grandchildren Lisa (Ryan) Pepperall, David (Lani Paterson) Fulton, Craig and Kim Fulton, Trish (Shane Cowlishaw) Merz, Allison Merz, Michael (Laura Sharkley) Fulton, Stephen (Chelsea) Fulton and their chosen Bequian granddaughter Gaynor Kydd. Her six great grandchildren Ethan and Alexa Pepperall, Lucas and Alexander Fulton and Sebastian and Elijah Cowlishaw Merz will miss her dearly.
Betty married Chesley on August 26, 1950 and they were blessed with five children. Chesley opened his own business in 1969 and Betty supported her husband by handling the office functions at Fulton Manufacturing Ltd. The business was sold to their son Larry in 1988 and upon retirement they moved to Huntsville. It was there that they met Ken and Karen Hewitt who became good friends and their Huntsville family. They made many friends in the Huntsville community including members of All Saints Church and Parish of the Good Shepherd, Emsdale.
In early 2016, due to Chesley’s health, they moved back to St. Catharines to be closer to family.
Betty had a generous heart and found joy in helping others. She enjoyed playing bridge with her fellow Heatherwood residents and participating in social activities. Betty was a member of St. George’s Anglican Church, where she felt most at home. She loved the atmosphere provided by the church and Reverend Martha Tatarnic, for whom she had endless admiration.
Due to current COVID restrictions, the family will plan a memorial service at a later date.
Betty and Ches were supporters of many community organizations and the family suggests that in lieu of flowers memorial donations be directed to Hospice Niagara, 403 Ontario Street, Unit 2, St. Catharines, ON L2N 1L5 or Hospice Huntsville, 100 Frank Miller Road, Huntsville, ON P1H 1H7.
Arrangements entrusted to Hulse & English Funeral Home & Chapel (905-684-6346). Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.hulseandenglish.com
In Loving Memory of Eldon Derby Harvey
November 4, 1926 – April 27, 2021
Eldon Derby Harvey was born to Roy and Stella Harvey in 1926 in the small town of Smiths Falls, Ontario, where he grew up surrounded by the bustling industry of the Canadian Pacific Railway. At 15, Eldon quit high school to work for the railroad. His work ethic quickly caught the eye of his superiors, but when his age barred him from more senior positions in CPR, Eldon transitioned jobs and began a lifelong career in the logging/pulp & paper industry.
Eldon’s work led him across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes and even carried him for long stints into the bush of northern Ontario. Eventually, he settled into management positions in Blind River, Montreal and finally in Huntsville, Ontario at Domtar’s Fiberboard Plant. By nature, Eldon was a hard worker who devoted himself to his employment and the employees he managed. He enjoyed his work. In 1990, he retired after 45 years in the industry.
Eldon was dedicated to his work, but even more so, he was a family man. In 1954, Eldon married Arlene, his beloved wife of 63 years. They went on to have four children: Karen, Laurene, Roy, and Karla, all of whom remember “Pops” dearly for his wisdom, dry humour, and his unshakeable love for each of them. Eldon’s children and family were near and dear to his heart.
Throughout his life, Eldon was also a man of faith. An avid reader (always non-fiction) with an insatiable appetite for studying scripture, he strove to put his faith into action through humble, consistent, and principled day-to-day living: first as a husband and father, then as an employee, a volunteer (teacher, deacon, elder and mentor) at his local church, a neighbour, and a friend. He bloomed where he was planted. Friends and family alike knew they could always count on Eldon for his level-headedness, integrity and wisdom. He will forever be remembered as an example of an ideal father: as a reflection of his Heavenly Father.
Eldon is survived by his children: Laurene Armstrong, Roy Harvey, Karla Beckett (Tim); by his eight grandchildren: Chris Dean (Aleida), William Hicks (Rachel), Amanda Smith (Scott), Michael Harvey (Janelle), Joy Reynolds (Eric), Paul Harvey (Kara), Liam Beckett, Pyper Beckett; and by his twelve great grandchildren: Kostas, Maddox, Frank, Zoe, Willow, Sequoia, Adalee, Belle, Kaleb, Kairo, Wells, and Noah.
Eldon is predeceased by Arlene, his wife; his sister: Audrey Koch; his daughter: Karen Almas; his son-in-law: Jon Armstrong; his daughter-in-law; Barb Harvey; his granddaughter: Laura Dean; his great grandson: Wonder Reynolds.
On Sunday, May 30, 2021 at 1 PM EDT (Huntsville time), a video tribute, at the following link, will be available to remember and celebrate who Eldon was and the influence he had in our lives: http://www.faithmuskoka.ca/
Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Passed away suddenly on Thursday, April 15, 2021, at her residence in Huntsville. Annette was born on July 6, 1963, in Huntsville to parents Davis and Kathleen (nee Wagg) Haven. She is the loving sister and sister-in-law of Gail Cooper, Cathy Lamb, Terry (Cindy) Leith, Barbara Turni, Elizabeth (Ron) Robertson and Beth Leith. Predeceased by her brother Robert Leith, brothers-in-law Larry Cooper and Tony Turni. She is the loving aunt to ten nieces and nephews and great aunt to eleven. Special friend to Chris and Adian.
Annette will truly be missed by her beloved cat “Casey”
In keeping with Annette’s wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial service will take place at a later date. Memorial donations can be made to a charity of choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
It is with sadness that the family of James (Jim) Tonks announces his passing on April 3rd, 2021, at Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville, Ontario.
James was the eldest of 8 children to Albert and Annie (Brindley). He was born in Nottingham, England, on May 28th, 1924. After completing school at age 14, Jim worked as a coal miner and briefly apprenticed as a barber. The war years were spent in the Home Guard. In 1949 he married the love of his life, Joyce Spencer. They would have four children and 53 years together before her passing in 2002.
In 1957, searching for a better life, Jim and Joyce came to Canada. They settled first in Scarborough, then Pickering, Ontario. Jim found work on the TTC, driving first the streetcars and then the TTC, and Go Transit buses. The family spent summers camping and travelling around Ontario and Canada. They so loved their adopted home!
In 1982, having raised their children, they moved north to Huntsville, where, after driving for Grey Coach, Jim retired. He continued to keep busy with a hobby farm, raising chickens, and rabbits, fresh vegetables, and making beer and wine. He was also a volunteer driver for the cancer society. They square danced, round danced and travelled the country, making many new friends along the way. They moved into town in 1997, which allowed them to get more involved with Club 55, the condo association and continue to travel. His little dog Skipper was a constant companion on his many walks around town.
In 2004, James married Ida Brooks. Together they settled into their golden years, travelling to Alaska, England and France, and became regular Bridge and Euchre players at the Legion and Club 55.
Jim loved life, family, nature, reading, reciting poetry, Hockey Night in Canada, the Blue Jays, and Rum and raisin ice cream.
Left behind to remember and mourn him are his wife, Ida, sister Freda (England), brother John (Pat) (England), his children: David (Cathy), Gary (Sheila), Janet (Tim), and Marian (Mike), his Grandchildren: Jeff (Rhonda), Ben (Reagan), Kristine (Rob), Joanna, Shelley (Matt), Derek (Julia), Kira, and Zoe (Tom), and his Great-grandchildren: Connor, Charlotte, Stella, Zachary, Emilia, and Olivia.
Cremation has taken place. Service/celebration of his life to take place on Saturday, June 5th at 12 pm at Billingsley Funeral Home. Internment following at Hutchison Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial gifts to Fairvern Nursing Home or the Canadian Cancer Society. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
The family of Lloyd Austin is saddened to announce his passing on March 15th, 2021 in his 93rd year at Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville.
He was born in Fern Glen to the late Mossom Austin, and Ethel (nee) Tebby. Predeceased by his wife Jessie Elizabeth (nee) Stuart and his son Neil John.
Predeceased siblings Colonel, Marian, Delmar, Myrtle, Jack, Ted, Bud, Elvina, and Ken.
Left to mourn him is his sister Shirley Parker. His daughters Susan (Mike), Glenda (Peter). His grandchildren Jennifer (Nick), Christine (Keith) and Jason. His great-grandchildren Aiden, Alyssa, Ava, and Sophie, and many nieces and nephews.
Lloyd left Fern Glen in his teens and headed for Toronto. He had various jobs of picking tobacco to roofing. He would say he could jump from rooftop to rooftop. He worked at an auto parts place then became a tire man. Lloyd’s longest career was with Borden milk company where he started as a tire man. While providing for his family he went to night school and at the age of 39 he got his electrical papers he worked at Borden’s until they were bought out which was 25 years of service. Lloyd’s last 10 years before retirement he was an electrician on the Downsview all Canadian Forces base.
In 1975 he bought the family cottage on Round Lake in Fern Glen from his mother Ethel. This was his happy place, they made it their permanent home 2003
Lloyd was known for his sense of humour; he always had a story or a joke to tell, and he would laugh at his own jokes.
Lloyd will be missed by many friends and family.
He had wished there be no service, in his memory donations may be made to Fairvern Nursing Home, Huntsville Ontario. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
It is with great sadness that the family of Jeannette Lupton (nee – Hamilton) announce her passing on Monday, April 19, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Hospice, Huntsville under the care of the wonderful nurses and doctors.
Beloved mother of Bob, Randy, Tammie, Jennifer and family.
Predeceased by her soulmate Herold and son Tim.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers donations to Algonquin Grace Hospice would be appreciated.
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
MALONEY, Janet Anne (nee Pritchard)
It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Janet on Saturday, April 17, 2021 after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. Janet was born in Guelph on January 24, 1941 to Ted and Mary Pritchard but spent most of her life in Toronto. She has gone to be with her one love, friend and husband John “Jack” Maloney who predeceased Janet in April of 2001. She will be greatly missed by her daughter Peggy (Andy) Muller, grandchildren Cameron (Emily) and Melissa as well as her brother David Pritchard and nephew Patrick (Christine) and August Pritchard. Janet is predeceased by her sister Susan Pritchard in 2008. She will be missed by countless family and friends she cherished over the years.
A private interment will take place at Mount Hope Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations to the War Amps of Canada or charity of choice would be greatly appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Albert Bruce Wigg
January 18, 1944 – April 7, 2021
Peacefully and surrounded by family, Albert Bruce Wigg of Gravenhurst passed away on April 7th, 2021 at the age of 77. Loving partner of Antje Ballantyne-Watson, caring father to Keith Wigg and father-in-law to Phillipa Griffiths, adoring grandfather to Gabi Griffiths-Wigg. Bruce was predeceased by his parents Albert and Eva Wigg, his sister Diane Amiot and his beloved wife of ten years Lesley Barber-Wigg.
Bruce was born and lived much of his life in Toronto. He spent as much time as possible at his favourite place, his cottage in Gravenhurst, which he first visited in 1965 and where he spent his last day “putzing” with his boat in anticipation of the ice going out. He also loved to go on camping and fishing trips with his son to many Ontario Provincial Parks, especially his favourite Lake Superior Provincial Park in the Crescent Lake campground. Upon retirement, Bruce relocated permanently to Muskoka where he enjoyed working on little projects and fishing with “his girl” Gabi. Most recently they worked together to make ice-fishing tip-ups out of mouse traps. In 2016 at the age of 72, he amazingly received a double lung transplant at Toronto General Hospital and was home in about a month, an amazing accomplishment. Bruce’s new lungs gave him a new lease on life for which he was grateful every day.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will take place on his beloved Gull Lake at a later date. Memorial donations in lieu of flowers in Albert Bruce’s name may be made to the Ajmera Transplant Centre through the UHN. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Blanche Lorrain (Oke) Guest (nee Thompson)
It is with sad hearts we announce the passing of our mother Blanche (Oke) Guest in Huntsville Hospital, April 17, 2021, in her 105th year. Blanche is predeceased by her two husbands, Roy Oke and Lorne Guest, also by her parents Gordon and Ethel (nee Saulter) Thompson and her brothers Murl and Grenvel. Left to mourn her passing are her daughters June and Donna and Lorne’s daughter Gail (Carl). She leaves behind three very special grandsons, Jason (Linda) Hayward, Aaron (Tilda) Hayward and Jeremy (Tina) Hayward and granddaughter Carii (Brian) Geroux as well as eleven great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandson. She also leaves nieces, nephews, and families.
Blanche was born and raised at South Portage. She did not start school until her younger brothers were old enough to make the long daily journey with her. She often spoke of her childhood memories and experiences – so different from those of today’s children! At age eighteen she came to Huntsville to work. Many will remember her as a long-time employee of Eatons. She married Roy Oke and together they had two daughters, Donna and June.
Upon Retirement, she and Roy became very involved with Brunel Community Centre. Blanche was a life member and past president of the Royal Canadian Legion Ladies Auxiliary. Doubtful anyone knows the number of banquets she may have helped cater there! She also played in numerous card and dart tournaments. Blanche was also a life member of Club 55 Huntsville, enjoying such activities as ceramics and art classes. Some of her lovely paintings still grace the walls of family and friends. Of course, Club 55 was also about the card games. She was also a life member of Dwight Lakeview Seniors. She enjoyed the camaraderie and the cards. She loved her “Bid Euchre” and lots of people were happy to have her as their partner.
A few years after Roy’s passing, Blanche met and married Lorne Guest. They enjoyed quite a few “Retirement” years together as well. They travelled a little, spent a few winters in Florida and summers at Kawagama Lake and always played cards!
Blanche lived her entire life in and around Huntsville. She enjoyed the people she met and they her. In her one hundred and four years she witnessed so many changes. She lived through world wars, the great depression, a man on the moon, and so many advances in technology, most recently while in hospital, a “Zoom” visit with her Alberta family. Through it all, she adapted as the situation required.
Through her advanced years, Blanche had reasonably good health, a sharp mind, a quick wit and a keen sense of humour. She continued to drive her car into her late 90’s and never left the house without her lipstick on! With the help of her family, she was able to stay in her own home where she had lived for the last 40 years and reigned as “Queen of the Cribbage Board.” It was a life well lived, a good run for sure!
We, as a family, have been fortunate to celebrate several milestone birthdays and other happy occasions with Blanche, including her hundredth when her Alberta family was all able to attend. We would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the staff of Huntsville District Memorial Hospital for the care and kindness they extended to our mother and to us during her final days. The Doctors, nurses, and support staff in Emerg, ICU and Palliative Care are wonderful! We would also like to thank friends and neighbours for their acts of kindness and continued support.
Blanche will be interred at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery with her husband Roy. Currently, Covid restrictions prevent a public service. In memory of Blanche, if you wish, donations to the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital or a charity of your choice are appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Ellen MacGregor
The family of Ellen MacGregor is devastated to announce her passing in the early hours of April 13 at Ottawa General Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment for cancer. Born Ellen Maud Griffith in Toronto on Dec. 13, 1948, she was pre-deceased by her parents, Lloyd Griffith and Rose (Whitlock) Griffith. Ellen is survived by her husband Roy and their four children, Kerry (Olivier Dalle, Raphael, Noemie), Christine (Mike Cation, Fisher, Sadie), Jocelyn (Andi Dzilums, Hawkley, Haywood) and Gordon MacGregor. She is enormously missed by her sister Jaqueline (Ralph Cox, Jessie, David), brothers-in-law Jim (Stephanie and family) of Bradford and Tom of Ottawa.
Ellen was a wife, mom, sister, grandmother, friend. She had been a superb athlete in her younger years, playing on high school championship teams for volleyball, basketball, gymnastics and track and field. She was the class valedictorian at Huntsville High School in 1968. She completed an honours degree in art at the University of Guelph and later, when her children were off at university, she completed a degree in psychology from Carleton University. She followed that up with a diploma in Interior Design from Algonquin College.
Ellen was a gifted artist. Her paintings grace the walls of family and friends across the country. She was also a sculptor and loved to build things such as a cottage deck and shed. She was at her happiest roaming the aisles of hardware stores. She made the best soups ever.
Everyone has mentioned her giggle and laugh – instant and infectious. She had a fantastic way with people, always accepting of others and offering help to all. Her family gatherings for Christmas in Ottawa and at Camp Lake during summers were legendary. Her cottage became a central part of so many lives – as well as the lives of her beloved pets.
Ellen supported her children’s interests in a wide variety of sports, serving several years as president of the Ottawa Nepean Diving Club. Once her children were grown, Ellen began accompanying Roy on journalism assignments that took them across the country and across the ocean. She liked to travel, but she liked to come home even more.
Master gardener, canoe tripper, carrier of heavy things – there was always a rock to be moved or plant to be divided. She will be dearly missed. As she had inscribed on the inside of the wedding ring she gave Roy nearly 49 years ago, “You and me, buds for all time.” That pretty well says it all.
Ellen chose cremation. Because of current health restrictions, there will be a Celebration of Life at a later date, when all in attendance can give and receive the hugs we all need. No flowers, please. Those wishing to honour her memory can donate to Canada Blood Services or a charity of their own choice.
Condolences may be offered at https://secure.fhwebhosting.net/bpf/notices/Ellen-MacGregor
BENNETT, Margaret Rose (née Pitblado)
Passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2021 and is now with the man she had known and loved since she was 15, her husband Clifford Gordon Bennett. Marg was predeceased by her dad and mom David and Melissa (Johnson) Pitblado, brothers James and David Pitblado, and her sisters Wilma Yake, Dorothy Nobes and Kay MacIntosh. Family was Marg’s greatest love. She was a loving Mom to Judy (Tim) Ratcliffe, Joanne Bennett (Stacey Proutt) and David Bennett. Devoted Grandma to Christopher (Monique) Reid, Joseph Reid (Janice Baikie), Justin and Alan Crawford. Grannie to Jonas, Tristan, Bennett, April and Caitlin. Sister to Ada Harvey and her twin, best friend and soul mate Marion Patterson. Sister-in-law to Barbara Howard
and a very, very special Aunt to 4 generations of nieces and nephews who adored her!
When Marg was not knitting sweaters, hats, socks, and mittens for her family she was knitting for one of her volunteer organizations. Helping her community was another of Marg’s passions. She was a giant supporter of The Huntsville Girl’s Hockey Association, she founded the Parents Auxiliary for minor hockey in Huntsville (if her children were involved, so was Marg). In her later years she became involved with The Friends of Fairvern and Muskoka Knitters for Global Warmth.
A private family gathering will take place. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to Hospice Huntsville www.hopsicehuntsville.com or Fairvern Nursing Home.
COTTRILL, Verna Mary Leona (nee Seely)
Passed away peacefully on April 11th, 2021 at Algonquin Grace Residential Hospice in her 89th year. Verna was born on September 11, 1932 in Huntsville to parents John and Clara Seely. She is the beloved wife of the late Charles Cottrill who predeceased Verna on October 10, 2004. Cherished mother of Diane (dec. Don) Godfrey, Ben (Gloria) Cottrill, the late Terry (Darlene) Cottrill and Ellen (Michael) Hopkins. Proud grandmother of Donny, Michael, Brian and Timothy, Shon, Eddy, Angie, Taylor, Phillip and Ian, Michael, Nicholas, Terri-Lyn, Justin, Ashley and Stacey and Sean, Shannon and Opal. Dear sister of Marg (dec. Bill) Austin, David (Hazel) Seely, Byron (Beth) Seely, Ralph (Miriam) Seely and Elaine (Gary) Seely-Rheubottom. Predeceased by siblings Jack Seely, Dorothy Wallis, and her brother-in-law Harold Wallis. Verna is survived by many great and great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins and surrounding family and friends.
Verna worked for many years as a cook, as well as working in home construction. Her family is among the first residents in the Huntsville area and helped grow the city into what we see today.
Verna was a wonderful cook, avid fisherman and hunter. Her love of nature was always present, and she had a green thumb that could be seen in her gardens and flowerbeds around her home. She also enjoyed a good Blue Jays baseball game, and… Dr. Pol.
Mom was viewed by many as the matriarch of our large family and will be greatly missed. Her home was open to everyone and was seen as a gathering place for friends and family alike, particularly on the May 24th weekend, where everyone gathered each year for our annual fish fry. When you walked into Verna’s house, she would offer you a cup of tea, ask if you had eaten, and would feed you whether you had eaten 5 minutes ago, or 5 hours ago. Whether hunting, fishing, cooking, baking her famous strawberry shortcake from scratch, gardening, hosting family, being a home to come to when you needed one, being a hand to hold, or a hug to comfort, or the stern voice to tell you to behave yourself, Verna meant so much to so many that her shoes are not likely to be filled in our lifetimes.
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be held later. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Friends of Algonquin, www.algonquinpark.on.ca. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Jean Clair (Dixon) Cripps
March 30, 1934 to April 3, 2021 (87 years)
Our mother passed away at Muskoka Landing, after a 2 1/2 year decline from her stroke. She was predeceased by her loving husband Sam, parents Charles and May Dixon, sons Morris and Stanley, daughter-in-law Stacey, brothers and sisters Lorn, Percy, Clarence, Ed, Rita, Dorothy, Blanch and Evelyn. Special mention of Gary, who mom raised with our family.
Jean is survived by her sister Dorene (Doug), her children Caroline (Ralph), Wayne, Marlien (Max) and Gwen (Rick). Daughter-In-Law Betty. Grandchildren Carl (Sue), Samantha (Paul), James (Jess), Randy (Kim), Wendy (Bill) and Jeremy (Amanda). Also great Grandchildren Ryker, Rachel (Jacob), Nikki, Zach, Bill, Joe, Ava, Dalton and Delaney and Great Great Grandson Dax.
Mom and Dad were long-term residents of Melissa, after moving to Waseosa Lake Road in 1968. They longed to come back to the Huntsville area where they had many family and friends. They rented at the time a home, previously known as the post office. They both loved the location so much they decided to purchase and build our permanent residence on that site.
Mom was known for her butter tarts and pies, which she sold at a family business, operated by her son Stan. In earlier years she worked as a waitress and managed a business in Brockville. Mom and Dad moved to Brockville in the early ’60s, which was the town where mom had been born.
We had to share our Mom and Dad with extended family and friends, as they always had an open door and welcomed everyone into their home. They always had room for more at the dinner table, a place to stay or just coffee and conversation.
Mom will forever be in our hearts and always remembered for her generosity.
A small family service (due to Covid) was held on April 9th at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, Huntsville, Ontario. The prayer service was lead by Rev. Kelly Baetz of All Saints Anglican Church in Huntsville.
We would like to extend our thanks to the caregivers at Muskoka Landing. Mom would show her appreciation of their care with her winning smile. Also appreciation to Betty for the great care she gave to mom over the years.
In memory of Jean Cripps, please donate to the Heart & Stroke Foundation. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Bruce Leslie Laver passed away suddenly on Wednesday, April 7th at the age of 90 at his home in Huntsville, Ontario.
An only child, Bruce is predeceased by his mother Jessie (nee Weech) and his father Leslie Mercer Laver and his daughter-in-law Chris. Bruce is survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 66 years, Elizabeth (nee Beresford) known to many as Betty, and his three beloved children; Rob of Huntsville, Stewart (Liz) of Canmore, Alberta, and Wendy of Huntsville, as well has his four grandchildren; Kelly Self (Doug) of Boise, Idaho, Jack Laver of Canmore, William Laver of Montreal, and Andrew Laver of Canmore and his great-granddaughter Caroline Self.
Born in Maple, Ontario on August 14th, 1930, Bruce grew up at Keele Street and Major Mackenzie Drive in the house behind his father’s auto garage. Here, his life was full of outdoor adventures with family and friends sparking a lifelong love of the outdoors.
Bruce graduated with a degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Toronto in 1955. Though his tenure at U of T started in the Forestry School, he later switched to Chemical Engineering after a summer job in Northern Ontario with the Ministry of Lands and Forests brought him to realize that he would need to balance his love for nature with his love for Elizabeth, which would mean a career based closer to an urban centre.
Bruce began his career immediately after graduation and soon settled in Rosemere, Quebec with all three of his children born in Montreal over the next few years.
1962 brought him to a new job in Toronto and the young family settled in Don Mills. Great and lifelong friends for the whole family were made on Overbank Crescent. It was during this time that Bruce learned to fly and purchased his first aircraft, a small Aeronca on wheels.
After many trips, often with his children, to the Huntsville and Lake of Bays area looking for the ideal lakefront property, he purchased 300 feet of shoreline in 1966 near Dorset on Lake of Bays.
Many great family memories were made at the lake as the cottage was designed and built over the course of a few years by Bruce himself, along with invaluable help from his wife and, of course, his small children.
1972 saw another job change, this time to Huntsville. The family moved to their new home at Echo Bay on Fairy Lake, where Bruce and Elizabeth still call home.
In Huntsville, float planes came into Bruce’s life, which afforded him countless hours of flying time over the hills and lakes around Huntsville. Time spent tinkering on and—at one point completely rebuilding—his beloved Fleet Canuck equally complemented his flying time.
In both summer and winter, there were weekend afternoon flights to the shores of the many otherwise inaccessible lakes that lie along the perimeter of Algonquin Park. These trips, sometimes made with his not-so-trusty beagle in tow, truly brought Bruce peace. Always a prudent pilot, Bruce flew well into his 80s, until he no longer felt comfortable flying.
People who knew Bruce would describe him as a strong, kind and generous family man with a great sense of humour. Bruce always seemed to know the right thing to say in any situation. He loved people, however, he also loved his quiet times to reflect.
Bruce and Elizabeth were always a team, and together, they built strong and lifelong friendships everywhere they went.
His last few years were spent caring for the love of his life as she struggled with blindness; he never left her side and looked after her every need. The strength of their love for each other has inspired us all.
He always knew how to do the right thing and was trusted by many for guidance and advice. He had a strong moral compass.
Sincere thanks to the staff of the ICU at the Huntsville and District Memorial Hospital.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
Cremation has taken place and a small family celebration has occurred. www.mitchellfueneralhome.ca
Teanna Wettlaufer
1996 – 2021
Never Forgotten
You’ll never be forgotten that simply cannot be.
As long as I am living I’ll carry you with me.
Safely tucked within my heart your light will always be.
A glowing ember never stilled, throughout the end of time.
No matter what the future brings, or what may lie ahead,
I know that you will walk with me along the path I tread.
So rest my angel be at peace and let your soul fly free.
One day I’ll join your glorious flight for all eternity.
Forever missed and in our hearts, Dad, Mom, Keeley, Holly, Nana & Boppa.
A very special thank you for your care and compassion Kim Doughty, Jen Nicholson, Amy Simpson, Dr. Dmitry Guller, Dr. Gerry Forestell, Ken Biggs.
PHYLLIS MARIE FERGUSON (née Wilson)
November 11, 1950 – March 12, 2021
Neebinaquay “Summer Girl”, the Indigenous name given to her by artist Carl Ray
Heartbroken, we announce the death of Phyllis Ferguson on Friday, March 12 at Toronto’s Mount Sinai Hospital from heart failure. Beloved wife and creative partner of IMAX co-founder Graeme Ferguson, together for nearly 50 years. Graeme, Phyllis and Toni Myers led the IMAX Space Team in its pioneering achievement in chronicling the space shuttle era. Says Dr. Roberta Bondar, Canada’s first female astronaut, “A rarity for astronauts to trust anyone outside of our own orbit, we believed in the IMAX folks, not only as respected movie-makers but as trusted members of our own space team, integral to the success of our missions – the storytelling that would survive any of us.”
Phyllis was one-of-a-kind, an alpha female, fiercely loving, loyal, inventive and brave. Her inquiring mind and razor-sharp wit, combined with her resilience and compassion, carried her through 70 years of a magnificent adventure. Born in Quetico, Ontario, she overcame a turbulent and challenging early childhood. As a pre-teenager, she arrived on her own on a Greyhound bus from Edmonton into the home of her grandmother, Phyllis Tenniscoe, in Thunder Bay. She loved her Granny who had 19 children of her own and a warm and welcoming heart. Phyllis, a status member of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan (Golden Lake) First Nation, was raised to be self-sufficient amongst a vibrant family, her “cousins” who were really her aunts and uncles. Phyllis’s love for her family was a strong thread throughout her life.
At Port Arthur Collegiate, Phyllis was a good athlete, excelling at basketball and volleyball, and a keen student. She bonded with people who remained friends for life, one of whom said, “I felt so out of place there and meeting and connecting with you, another Indigenous girl, helped me greatly. You became my best friend.” Phyllis always said that the second family who shaped her were Lindsay and the late David Morgan, who invited her in her final year of high school to come and live with them and their children. Phyllis had been thinking about becoming a teacher but at that point her guidance counsellor said, “you’re always playing around with video equipment, you should pursue a career you enjoy.”
She enrolled in Confederation College, which offered a new course in radio and television. She was front and centre as host when the NFB came to Thunder Bay and launched Challenge for Change’s weekly slot on the local TV station.
Her early career included being an announce operator for CBC Radio in Whitehorse, alone in the studio, doing the whole show by herself, and then working on a community Indigenous newspaper in Ottawa. From assistant production manager on the CBC’s Fifth Estate, she became production manager at CTV’s W5, a turning point in her career. Next, after freelancing as a sought-after location manager for feature and made-for-TV films, she became immersed in the IMAX world. Her IMAX credits include Hail Columbia! The Dream is Alive, Blue Planet and Destiny in Space. Throughout her career, Phyllis was the “connector,” laying the foundation for key relationships, based on straight talk, an unerring feel for what makes people tick and her talent for listening and getting people to talk.
That instinct had been evident when she directed her first short documentary – the NFB’s Nishnawbe-Aski: The People and the Land, which was made pro bono as a tool for Indigenous community members to make the case for their opposition to clear-cutting in northwestern Ontario.
Phyllis’s inimitable low-key style was evident in her regular routine of going to the Johnson Space Centre cafeteria every day, finding an empty table and waiting, quietly and confidently, as astronauts and flight directors would come by to share news and opinions. Sometimes an astronaut who had just been named to command a flight would ask her if there was any chance to get an IMAX camera on board. “To me she was the glue that held the IMAX Space Team and the NASA ‘extended family’ together,” says Bill Readdy, former astronaut and associate administrator of NASA’s Space Flight office.
When Graeme and Phyllis retired at Lake of Bays, she became immersed in community life, supporting campaigns and organizations that matched her values and actively raising funds for hospitals. She also found new passions: returning to her love of sports, she took up golf which led to a whole new circle of deep friendships. She loved her black Labs, Naiad and Pixie, playing Scrabble and baking for neighbours. Norway Point became a chosen destination for widespread family and friends, relationships nurtured over many years.
Forever remembered by the Tenniscoe family, especially Ruth Martinsen (the late Bent), Sandra Pehkonen (Allan Davis), Margaret Tenniscoe (Gary Ross) and all their families. Lovingly remembered by Graeme Ferguson, his children Munro Ferguson and Allison Ferguson and their families: grandchildren Ivan Ferguson, Joyce Ferguson (Pedro Cerna), Samuel Ferguson-Sharp (Melanie) and Lucas Ferguson-Sharp; their mother Eo Sharp (Charles); great-grandson Leo Cerna-Ferguson; and her sisters- and brother-in-law Janet Kroitor (the late Roman), Mary Hooper (Bob) and Bill Ferguson (Millie). Her life is celebrated as well by Lindsay Morgan and family, countless friends across the country and the IMAX family here and around the world.
A private cremation, handled by Cardinal Funeral Home in Toronto, has taken place. Her interment, conducted by the Everest Funeral Home, will take place at St Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery in Thunder Bay, where she will rest near her grandmother and relatives.
Please consider a donation in her name to the Beendigen Anishinaabe Women’s Crisis Home & Family Healing Agency in Thunder Bay or the South Muskoka Hospital in Bracebridge or the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the OSPCA. A film on Phyllis’s life is being created and will be shared soon.
Please buy yourself some tulips and remember Phyllis.
STELLA RUBY (née Polojko)
June 1, 1927 – March 29, 2021
The family of Stella (Polojko) Ruby sadly announces that Stella passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 29th. Stella leaves behind her children Michael and Paula (Martin), and grandchildren Michaela and Stefan. She was recently pre-deceased by her loving husband of 73 years Murray (in Dec.) and son Eric, as well as siblings Mary, Bill, Sophie, and Diana.
Stella was born in Espanola, a strong Ukrainian community 70 km west of Sudbury. In her late teenage years, she met Murray in Parry Sound upon his return from the air force during WWII. They married, moved to Huntsville, and later raised their 3 children in the town. Learning English at 5, Stella became a lifelong reader and supporter of the local library. She would take her 5 cents to the library every week to pick out a book. She remained a lover of books for the rest of her life. An enjoyer of the arts, she would attend both the local church plays/musicals, as well as jaunts to Toronto to the Royal Alexandra and O’Keefe Centre with her friends. Both Stella and Murray thoroughly enjoyed attending Huntsville’s wonderful Algonquin Theatre.
Stella was athletic since childhood. Starting off with softball, she eventually started skiing in the early ’60s along with her children at Tally Ho, and later to Hidden Valley as a charter member along with Murray. Murray and Stella were also very into tennis, where she thrived in the competitive scene. She played in many tournaments in both doubles and mixed doubles, where she and Murray won numerous trophies. Many winter holidays were spent either playing tennis in a warmer destination or skiing in the mountains with good friends. Friends were an important part of her life—she enjoyed an annual bridge getaway for many years, and met twice weekly at “the table of knowledge” for coffee for over 60 years.
Stella could always be seen out for her daily walks across town, and if weather did not permit, she would head to the Summit Centre or The Independent to put in her steps for the day. She thoroughly enjoyed annual autumn hikes/picnics with Murray and friends to Algonquin and Arrowhead Parks to view the fall colours. She also enjoyed lunch on the dock at the cottage and swimming with the grandkids in her later years.
Stella will be greatly missed by family, friends and many in the community, and she and Murray were a big part of the fabric of Huntsville. She ended her 93 years with a song, her lipstick on and a “toodle-oo”. Her family would like to thank the staff at Huntsville and District Memorial Hospital and Hospice Huntsville for their tremendous care. A gathering will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, Donations may be made to: Hospice Huntsville, 100 Frank Miller Dr., Huntsville ON, P1H 1H7
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
GWENDOLYN DARLINE MURDY (Wilson)
February 27, 1934 – March 22, 2021
Gwen passed away peacefully at Muskoka Landing after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s. Predeceased by her parents Jack and Anne Wilson of Burk’s Falls, brother John (Gloria) and loving husband Deane. Loving mother of Deane (Wendy), Dana (Brett) and Jason (Michele), and proud Grammie of Emily (Nick), Brock, the late Gabriel, Kelsi, Christopher, Lucas and Ethan. Gwen’s family and friends missed her brilliant smile and companionship these last years.
Gwen graduated from X-ray Technician College in the late 1950s and took a position with Huntsville Hospital. Meeting Deane in Huntsville they were married September 5, 1959 and resided on Hunters Bay Drive for 50 years. Many friends of their children and grandchildren spent countless hours in their home and on the waterfront. The doors were always open.
Gwen had many interests. In the early years Gwen was a talented softball pitcher in Burk’s Falls. She enjoyed skiing and picked up tennis having a standing morning game at Grandview. She had the “Birthday Girls” who celebrated together and the “Bridge Girls” who played together for close to 50 years in her circle of friends. Gwen and Deane played couples bridge for years and the group extended their activities to ski trips, curling bonspiels and general shenanigans. She was an avid gardener, seen forever digging in their many gardens. Over the years many brides stood in front of those gardens for their photos.
As an active community member Gwen volunteered with the Hospital Auxiliary, Friends of Pioneer Village, and Meals on Wheels. Gwen contributed many hours to the fundraising initiatives for the new Huntsville Hospital and for the conversion of the old hospital into Fairvern Nursing Home. She and Deane were members of the All Saints Anglican Church family.
Gwen was dedicated to the Order of the Eastern Star, holding the offices of Worthy Matron, District Deputy, Grand Representative to Kentucky, Grand Officer and escort to Deane while he served in the Ontario Grand Chapter. She cherished their Grand Family and all the memories. Gwen saw almost every inch of Ontario as they criss-crossed the province travelling for the Eastern Star.
Grandchildren brought that twinkle to Gwen’s eyes. Never missing an opportunity to be part of their lives, she was often seen in the stands at sporting events, building sand castles on beaches or hosting sleepovers. They were the source of her greatest joy. It is of note that Grammie was the best KD maker out there.
All who were touched by her life were fortunate to have known her. A precious gift who will forever be remembered in our hearts.
The family wishes to express its deep appreciation to the caregivers at the Muskoka Landing who cared for her with such kindness and dedication through the last chapter of her life.
An intimate immediate family service is planned. We thank all for their kind words, strength and support at this time.
In Memoriam Gwen Murdy, donations to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Libor Frances Drabek
January 25, 1930 ~ March 22, 2021 (age 91)
Libor Frances Drabek passed away peacefully at Hospice Huntsville on Monday, March 22, 2021 in his 91st year. Libor was born in Czechoslovakia in 1930 and emigrated to Canada to freedom and new life. He was an Electrical Engineer for Ontario Power Generation/Ontario Hydro for the entirety of his career. He was a beloved husband of Jaroslava Drabek, who passed Christmas Day 2016. Father to Katerina Drabkova, Hana Cadova and Suzana Drabkova and step-father to Irene Greenburg. Grandfather to Martina Kasparcova and Jiri Kasperek and Lauren and Jason Greenburg. Libor will be fondly remembered by all who knew him as a Gentleman, ready with a compliment and always made people smile. Libor will be missed dearly by those who got to know him and by those to whom Libor became like family.
Nazdravi!
Cremation has taken place and a service will not be held at this time. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to Hospice Huntsville. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Robert Donald (Don) Ward
July 22, 1926 – March 6, 2021
It is with great sadness our family announces the passing of our father, grandfather, great-grandfather.
Don passed to rejoin the love of his life Shirley on March 6, 2021 at the High River hospital with his family present at his side.
Don was born in Huntsville, Ontario on July 22, 1926 to Oliver McKenzie and Ethel May Ward and had four siblings, Jim, Roy, Allen and Mae. The little stone school at Williamsport is where he met his soul mate and partner for life Shirley Edna Birtch. They married on May 22, 1948 and had three children, Robert Douglas, Cheryl Ann and Susan Diane. Don was predeceased by his parents, siblings, son Robert Douglas, daughter Cheryl Ann, and soulmate of 61 years Shirley.
Lovingly remembered by his daughter Susan Cooper, son in law Brian Cooper, Grandson Eli Cooper, Grandson Isaac Cooper (Jenn Cooper), Great Grandchildren, Madison, Lilia, Caiden and Kylie. Don and/or Uncle Don will be missed by his Brother in Law, Sisters in law and numerous nieces and nephews and cousins all who thought of him as a kind and gentle man. He always wanted to know how everyone was.
Don owned his The Variety Mart in Huntsville and retired when he was only 52. Dad and Mom loved to travel and had pretty well covered the continent of North America. They camped, fished, explored and had many adventures year round. Through their travels they met wonderful friends many of who Dad was still in touch with. They moved from Ontario to Vernon BC to be closer to their children and Grandchildren, then to Nanton, AB. When Mom passed Dad moved to Okotoks where he had many friends and neighbours that visited and played cards. He got his little buddy Benji for company and they spent 9 years together as constant companions.
Special thanks to the following people and organizations for your compassion and care: High River Hospital Third Floor Unit, Dr. Adam Vyse, Dr. C Hoggard and Veteran’s Affairs Canada. You made his life so much more comfortable.
If you wish to honour Don’s memory the family has chosen the Royal Canadian Legion Nanton Branch #80 as the recipient. P.O. Box 299 Nanton, Alberta, T0L 0R0 Where Dad has been a member for 17 years.
Due to COVID restrictions, we will be having a small private family service for internment with a Celebration of Life when able to later in the Spring. To email condolences, please visit www.snodgrassfuneralhomes.com. Arrangements in care of Snodgrass Funeral Home, High River. (403-652-2222)
Passed away suddenly at her home in Utterson on March 6, 2021 at the age of 82. Shirley was born in Huntsville to the late George & Helen (née Hanes) Snowden. Pre-deceased by sibling Harry. She was a loving mother to Donald, predeceased (Eileen), Kevin (Janice) and grandmother to Jennifer (Robert) and Samantha (Darren). Shirley split her career in the dental field between Huntsville and Toronto. Upon retirement she returned to the Huntsville area. She owned several pets over the years and enjoyed feeding and watching the wildlife that frequented her property. Shirley enjoyed the churches and social groups she participated in and the many trips with Hammond Bus Lines with her friends. She was an avid sports fan and loved watching her Toronto Bluejays and made yearly trips to Toronto to see them. She was a strong independent women which helped her even when a debilitating stroke set her back. She will be sadly missed by family, friends and neighbours.
Due to COVID restrictions there will be no formal service – a private family gathering will take place upon the interment of her ashes at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, where she will rest with her parents and brother.
The family welcomes donations in Shirley’s name to your charity of choice.
Messages of condolences may be left at mitchellfuneralhome.ca.
LANGILLE, John Edward – of Huntsville, Ontario, died on Friday, March 5, 2021 in Soldier’s Memorial Hospital, Orillia, Ontario after an incredible battle to live. Dubbed Johnny to his closest friends, he was born August 5, 1964 in Middleton, NS. He was the beloved son of Harold and Mary Ann (Wentzell) Langille of Bridgewater.
Growing up John enjoyed such competitive sports as tennis, badminton and swimming where he was a five-time provincial under 16 champion in the butterfly stroke. John graduated from Bridgetown High School in 1984 after which he attended Mount St. Vincent University graduating with his Bachelor of Arts in history. Starting piano lessons at the age of 6 and clarinet through his entire secondary school years, it became clearly obvious that music was John’s first best love. Largely self-taught, John completed his formal piano training with the Toronto Conservatory of music during which time he found his true calling as an extraordinary church organist. Beginning at Nictaux Baptist Church he also worked at the West End Baptist Church in Halifax, Iona Presbyterian Church in Dartmouth finally settling in Trinity United Church in Huntsville Ontario where he was the music and choir director for 22 years. He had previously worked as a fine dining server at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville for many years. While there, he was the Supervisor of Staff housing, overseeing and influencing young adults from all over the world.
A talented and gifted soul, his challenging cantatas, anthems and piano solos at Trinity United Church were John’s way of sharing his love of music and God’s message in a way that touched the lives of all the souls he encountered. A true Christian in every sense of the word, he gave continually of himself. If he knew of someone who was sick or lonely, he would call them and play music for them as well as pray with them. He also played at many nursing homes. John’s story of leadership and charity was twice written and published in the local paper, The Doppler for his work, compassion and sense of humour. He was very much beloved and respected by everyone in his church family and the community of Huntsville. Before his health crisis, Johnny was anxiously looking forward to his return to his beloved Nova Scotia after his scheduled hip surgery in January, sadly this was not to happen.
Surviving are his parents, Harold and MaryAnn Langille; brother David (Darlene); sister, Cheryl (Darren) Pryde; aunt, Gayle Veinot, uncle Gary Langille, niece Emily Langille, nephews, Shane Langille, Brice Veinot, Anthony Durling, Tyler Gehue; many cousins and his dear friends, Les and Christina of Huntsville. He was predeceased by grandparents, Laurie and Ruth Wentzell and Harold and Helen Langille.
No visitation at the funeral home by request. Memorial service will be held 2 p.m, Saturday, March 13, in Bridgewater Baptist Church, Rev. Richard Moore officiating. Family flowers only, donations may be made to Trinity United Church (33 Main Street East, Huntsville, ON, P1H 2B8). Interment will take place at a later date in Parkdale – Maplewood Community Cemetery, Parkdale.
The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to the ICU staff of Huntsville Hospital and Orillia Hospital for the exceptional care he received. The attention and care provided by Doctors Chan and Bailey and the entire ICU staff, as well as the time they took to keep John’s family informed and reassured was truly a blessing. The family would also like to thank Allister and Johanna Dunlop for all they have done in helping us through this difficult time. We could not have managed without you.
Johnny will be remembered passionately by anyone and everyone who met him.
www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Clarence Jenkins
November 17, 1945 – March 7, 2021
We wanted to share with the community the passing of Clarence Jenkins in his 76th year. Clarence was a well-recognized figure around Huntsville for many years. He and his walker were often seen around town, and people would look forward to the nice weather when Clarence would sit outside Shoppers Drug Mart to watch the traffic go by and wave to those who would honk their horns to say hello. Thank you to those who did honk – it made him very happy.
Clarence and everyone who knew him was incredibly proud that he was able to complete the 5k walk for Band on the Run…more than once…and with two replacement hips. He was an inspiration to many.
This past year was a struggle for Clarence, but with incredibly compassionate and caring assistance from Community Living, he was able to retain his independence in his apartment. His last days were spent resting comfortably in the caring hands and beautiful surroundings of Hospice Huntsville.
His family, including brothers Bill and Bobbie, and his good friends Kelly Petman and Cheryl Stamper, would like to extend their thanks to the paramedics, the hospital and Hospice staff, and the members of Community Living who worked so hard to keep Clarence safe and well and independent over the years.
Due to Covid-19 considerations, there will be no funeral home visitation. Clarence will be laid to rest at Hutcheson Cemetery in May.
Joseph (Ross) Rosaire Gilbert
October 5, 1930 – March 6, 2021
It is with heavy hearts and sadness, the Gilbert family announces the passing of Ross Gilbert on March 6, 2021 following a short stay at the Huntsville Hospital. He was 90 years old. Ross was the beloved husband of (Nona) Ruth Gilbert (previously deceased on June 24, 2015) for over 51 years. Ross was the loved and cherished father, friend and mentor to his son Jeff Gilbert.
Ross was born in Whitton, Frontenac (Eastern Townships) Quebec on October 5, 1930 to Cyrille Gilbert and Amanda Garand. His siblings were Armand, Robert, Lionel, Leo, Fernand, Grace, Aurelien and Roland.
Ross was deeply loved and cherished by his family, Ruth’s family, nieces and nephews, as well as Ross and Ruth’s community of friends. Everyone will dearly miss him, but we are comforted knowing he had a long and active life and left a great impression on many.
Ross met Ruth at the Kapuskasing Curling Club in 1959 and they were married on November 9, 1963 in Kapuskasing, Ontario.
Ross attended the Leslie M. Frost Natural Resources Centre in Dorset for Ontario Forest Technical School and Lands Certificate training and education. He had a rewarding and successful career of over 38 years with the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources (formerly the Department of Lands and Forests), working in Kapuskasing, Parry Sound, Lindsay and Huntsville. From 1973 until his retirement in 1989, Ross was the Algonquin Region Lands Administration Manager responsible for Crown Land, working out of the Huntsville location.
Ross enjoyed and was passionate about sports, particularly hockey (a lifetime Montreal Canadiens fan), curling, golf, lacrosse and baseball. Ross had four career holes-in-one in golf and tremendously enjoyed golfing with friends following his retirement in 1989 and up to and including the 2020 golf season. An avid member of the Huntsville Curling Club from 1973 to 2018, he completed a term as Club President, won the 1978 Muskoka Lakes Men’s Bonspiel, helped develop and participated in the Muskoka Masters (curlers over 60 years of age) and Muskoka Grand Masters (curlers over 70 years of age) Curling Leagues, participated at the Ontario Grand Masters Provincial Curling Championships in 2009 and 2011 (winning the Second Event), skipped the 2017 Muskoka Lakes Mixed Bonspiel champions and won the 2018 South Muskoka Curling and Golf Club Competitive Mixed Club Championship at the age of 87 with his son Jeff.
Ross was a proud hockey, curling and lacrosse Dad, supporting and cheering on Jeff and his teammates. He completed a term as the President of the Huntsville Minor Lacrosse Association, was the Team Manager of the 1980 Huntsville Bantam “C” Hawks Canadian Lacrosse Champions, Team Manager of the 1982 Huntsville Midget “B” Hawks Ontario and Canadian Lacrosse Champions and the Team Manager of the 1987 Huntsville Junior “B” Hawks Founder’s Cup Canadian Championship Bronze Medalists who were inducted into the Huntsville Sports Hall of Fame in 2017.
Ross also believed in community involvement and was a member of the Kinsmen Club, volunteered for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, The Table Soup Kitchen and was a Huntsville Trinity United Church Trustee and Treasurer of Council.
Ross was the consummate family man, providing for and spending much quality time with Ruth and Jeff, loving his family and enjoying many wonderful family holidays, vacations and trips.
In his own words, Ross had a wonderful life. He always had a positive outlook and was proud of and loved his family. He was known for his smile, kindness and being a true gentleman. The world would be a kinder and better place if there were more people like Ross.
We wish to thank with the deepest gratitude Dr. Aoki, Dr. MacMillan and the caring nursing staff at the Huntsville Hospital for the excellent care that Ross had during his stay.
The family are planning a service to be held at Trinity United Church in Huntsville at a time when we are all able to gather and celebrate Ross. Rest in peace beloved one!
In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the Heart and Stroke Foundation would be appreciated by the family.
Raise a glass to the Milky Way, that’s where I’ll be
Joyce Christina Laver passed away peacefully in Huntsville with her husband Rob at her side Thursday February 25 after losing her 2 ½ year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Chris is survived by her husband Rob; siblings Bill (Deb), Linda (Nigel) and Tim (Kelly). Cherished nieces and nephews Scott, Kristie, Jodie, Christopher, Nathan, Chelsea, Kelly, William, Jack and Andrew, as well as her many great-nieces and nephews. Godmother to Jesse and Shelby. Deeply missed by her lifelong buddy Susan.
Chris was born in Hawkesbury Ontario on October 22, 1954, daughter of the late Ronald and Joyce Seay (née Hammond). Her early days were spent at the family farm, Seay’s Folly, in Grenville, Quebec visiting family and friends, riding horses, doing hay, swimming, BBQ’s and cross country skiing.
Despite humble beginnings, Chris took modest pride in her career as a sales representative in the railcar leasing business. 20 years at General Electric Railcar, followed by 17 years at Dallas-based Trinity Rail, retiring in 2020 as Senior Vice President of Sales. Chris broke many boundaries over those years, initially as one of the only women in the business and with Trinity Rail she established its first Canadian office and developed a nationwide customer base. She will be remembered for her mentorship, professionalism and friendship by clients and colleagues alike.
Chris lived a full life. Her interests were vast and varied and took her on some amazing journeys around the world. Whether skiing in the Rockies, exploring France, Spain, Africa, touring the markets of Southeast Asia, or riding on the Orient Express, she was always up for adventure, and a glass of chardonnay!
Above all, Chris was a people person. She loved to entertain at their beautiful home, Chickadee Pines on the shores of Lake Vernon. Witty, fun-loving, and generous, Chris was a wonderful hostess and a great friend. The memories she and Rob created for so many won’t soon be forgotten.
Chris’ greatest love of all, though, was for her husband of 35 years. To be with Chris and Rob was to be in the company of two people who were meant to be together. They loved and supported each other so beautifully that it was easy just to bask in their glow.
Appreciation to the great care Chris received from Huntsville Drs. Lindsay Macmillan, Murat, Jindal, and Small. RVH Drs. Ng and Kamra. Jaime and the team at Closing the Gap as well as the entire team in the chemo unit in Huntsville Hospital.
As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
Messages of condolence may be left at mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will occur when we can all give each other a hug.
Gone too soon, she will be missed by many.
BETTY ELLEN SWANSON (NÉE MCIELWAIN)
Betty Ellen Swanson, age 90, passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2021.
“Not one sparrow is forgotten, and we are so much more than sparrows to our heavenly Father,” to paraphrase Matthew 10:29-31 and one of Mom’s many favourite hymns, “His Eye is on the Sparrow.”
Beloved Mother of Gillian, Julia, and Darrel (deceased), and also a very special Grandmother, Sister and Sister-in-law, Aunt and Great-Aunt, Cousin, Friend, and Neighbour, is reunited in heaven with many loved ones, and fully healed. She passed away in Calgary, so near the Rocky Mountains that beckoned her westward on that first move sixty years ago.
Her love, faith, prayers, resilience and actions carried so many of us. She reached out to help so many people over the years, without regard to status or colour, some with medical needs, others struggling with addiction and recovery, some new to the country, and others with records and homeless. She enjoyed us all, and with such an openness and faithful compassion! She exhibited and shared an extraordinary grace, faith, humour, and dignity in dealing with so much, including her own losses and a lifetime with rheumatoid arthritis. In God’s loving kindness His mercies never end….
Mom was a long-standing member of Westview Baptist Church, and while family is separated not only by distance, but also by these Covid drenched times, family has decided to not make any participatory funeral or memorial plans at this time.
If friends and family so desire, in lieu of flowers, memorial tributes may be made directly to the Mustard Seed Street Ministry, 102 – 11 Avenue S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 0X5 Telephone: (403) 269-1319, www.theseed.ca.
Condolences, memories and photos may be shared and viewed on Betty’s obituary at www.McInnisandHolloway.com.
In living memory of Betty Swanson, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Crowfoot, 82 CROWFOOT CIRCLE NW, CALGARY, AB T3G 2T3, Telephone: 403-241-0044.
MORRISON, Frances Bernice (née Ritza)
The death of Frances Morrison (née Ritza) occurred on February 22, 2021 in Huntsville, Ontario, at the age of 94. Fran was born May 21, 1926 in Barry’s Bay, Ontario. Fran was predeceased by husband George Morrison, whom she married on April 7, 1951. Fran was an active member of the community, having volunteered for many years at the Huntsville Hospital and Fairvern Nursing Home. Fran was an active member of the Catholic Women’s League for over 50 years. She had a green thumb, evidenced by her many house plants that were constantly in bloom, and she enjoyed playing bridge, bowling, knitting, sewing, cake decorating and gathering with family.
Fran is survived by her children Mary (Dave) Brown, Joe (Leslie) Morrison, Rob (Lori White) Morrison and Karen (Trevor) Docherty. Fran is also survived by her grandchildren Lindsay Brown, Amy (Rich) Gargal, Tyler (Kari) Morrison, Mike Festing, Krissy (Kris) Goodman and great-grandchildren Tegan, Hadley, Claire, Brody and Lillian. Predeceased by grandson Shaun and great-grandson Hudson. She is survived by siblings Joan Aeling, Donald (Donene) Ritza and Marlene (Gerry) Keyes. Predeceased by siblings Bill, Roy, Tom & Violet.
The family offers a special thanks to all the staff at Fairvern Nursing Home, who provided Mom with such loving care and to Billingsley Funeral Home for their assistance at this time.
A private funeral mass will be held at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Huntsville on February 25, 2021. Internment will take place in the spring. If desired, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Fairvern Nursing Home. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Patricia Power (Symes)
October 29, 1930 to February 17, 2021
On February 17, 2021, Patricia Power (Symes), age 90, peacefully passed away at Muskoka Shores Community Care, Gravenhurst, Ontario. She was a loving mother to Christine (Cameron) Enders, Martha (Allan) Johnston, and John (Melanie) Power & grandmother to Kristen, Melissa, Ben and Sam.
Patricia was born in Sarnia, Ontario, in 1930, to Lucy and James Symes. Her father passed away when she was 2 years old and her mom passed when she was 14 years old. She went to live with her Aunty Pearl and Uncle John Brown in Burlington. They provided her love, comfort, and wonderful opportunities, including their vacation time in Muskoka, Ontario. They encouraged her to pursue her education and desire to become a nurse.
Patricia was predeceased by her first husband, Hartley G. Holmberg, who passed away in 1965, resulting from an accident, and her second husband, John (Jack) R. Power, who passed away in 2013. Patricia lived in Algonquin Park and Richmond Hill, Ontario, with Hartley, until he passed away. A couple of years later, she married Jack and the family moved to southern New York State. Patricia’s nursing career spanned four decades. She worked in many areas of nursing: obstetrics, surgery, The Red Cross, health inspection, geriatrics, and ultimately became the Director of Nursing in a Healthcare Facility. After retiring, Pat and Jack moved to Ramseur, North Carolina and continued to enjoy Muskoka summers, at their cottage on Lake of Bays, with family and friends.
Pat was very social and enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, throughout her life. She took great pleasure involving herself in many activities and volunteer projects. Her interests were: agility training dogs, gardening, knitting, sewing, quilting, playing piano, reading, educating herself on food and nutrition, doing crossword puzzles, watching her TV shows (NCIS, HGTV, and movies), and being active in the Anglican Church Community. Pat enjoyed music, concerts, ice hockey, and figure skating. She liked cooking/baking and made the best Sunday dinners for her family. Pat learned computer skills and used her cell phone and texting technology, until 2020. She signed her text messages, “Love, Mom or Grandma”, but later just signed off –’G’. With a nickname like ‘G’, she was forever young at heart. Her family has fond memories of her living aboard the ‘C2C’ 44-foot trawler, while exploring Lake Nipigon, Beardmore; campfires at the edge of Mary Lake, Port Sydney; and drives along Lake Ontario in Kingston & Prince Edward County.
In October 2020, her family was grateful to be able to celebrate her 90th birthday and her well-lived life. Pat was proud, strong-willed, and brave. She offered her children encouragement and was a ‘cheerleader’ to her grandchildren, whether it be sports, education, or travel adventures. Pat taught her family the importance of having empathy and being kind. She was a survivor. Pat was ‘spirited’, which may be attributed to her red hair!
Pat was many things to many people. She will be forever in our hearts and deeply missed by her family and friends, especially her dear friend of 68 years, June Trayes.
Sincere gratitude is extended to staff and associated resource personnel of Rogers Cove Retirement Home, Huntsville District Memorial Hospital, Muskoka Algonquin Health Care, South, Bracebridge, North Simcoe Muskoka Local Health Integration Network, and Muskoka Shores Community Care. Thank you to her Muskoka Shores Community Care Physician, Dr. K.V. Dechert and staff for Pat’s ongoing, supportive medical care. This collective, compassionate, collaborative care supported Patricia during the past couple of years. Covid-19 has made the last year so difficult on so many levels. Fortunately, during the pandemic, Muskoka Shores Community Care designated her son as an essential caregiver, which allowed him to visit her face to face, so that they could FaceTime family members, on a regular basis.
Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions, a celebration of Patricia’s life will be arranged at a later date.
In Patricia’s memory, the family welcomes donations to Muskoka Algonquin Health Care or a charity of your choice.
COOPER, Janet Lee (née Sanger)
Janet passed away at home in Huntsville on February 17, 2021, age 72. She was the daughter of Ernest Sanger and Jean Tracey of Toronto and the daughter-in-law of Vera and Arden Townsend (all deceased). Totally dedicated to family, she was the beloved wife of Wayne Cooper for 51 years and the loving mother of Michael (Theresa) of Lower Hutt, New Zealand and Patrick (Shaina Orr) of Etobicoke, and the proud Nana of Liam and Ronan Cooper, Lower Hutt. Also surviving Janet are her brother John Sanger, nephew Christopher Sanger (Simrit), niece Leigh Sanger (Kevin), sister-in-law Kay Weir, grandnieces Megan Larochelle and Ria Sanger, and grandnephew Jacob Steeper.
Janet was born and raised in Toronto, attended North Toronto Collegiate, worked for a decade in banking, and then became a full time stay-at-home mother in Etobicoke and Alliston. She was very active in various home and school events. Janet drove her boys to games and always provided loud vocal support.
For 30 years, she co-hosted family members (including the entire extended clan from New Zealand), long-time friends, and neighbours at the Cooper’s Clear Lake cottage. Janet is well remembered dispensing orders and quips from her easy chair. Her hobbies included reading and knitting – a local member of Knitters for Global Warmth.
Her ashes will be interred at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, Huntsville. The family welcomes donations in Janet’s name to your charity of choice. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
The family of Brian Douglas Maynard are sad to announce his passing on February 17, 2021 at his home in Huntsville, Ontario.
Brian was born in Huntsville on November 19,1945 to Verna and the late Stan Maynard. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife Nancy, son Doug (Jody) and daughter Debi (Walter) Coker. Proud grandfather of Scott (Jessica) Coker, Jeff (Olivia Jardine) Coker and Brittney and Matthew Maynard, great grandfather of Kyden, Brielle and William.
Also survived by siblings Edward (Barbara), Diane (Don) Moorhouse, Michael (Linda), Janice Trotter and Bette (Rod) Roberts.
Brian was an avid outdoorsman. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, flying and cutting wood. Spending time with his grandchildren was one of his greatest pleasures.
Brian was a proud volunteer fireman for 22 years with Huntsville Fire Department, Station #2.
Our family would like to thank Dr. Andy MacMillan for his professional, compassionate care for many years, Closing the Gap for providing experienced and reliable PSW care, notably Deanna and Allana and most recently The Algonquin Family Health Team for their support.
Following Brian’s wishes there will be no formal gathering. If desired, donations to Huntsville Hospice would be appreciated by the family. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Brian enjoyed a life well lived.
The death occurred peacefully at home on Thursday, February 11, 2021 of George Snooks.
Loved by Georgie and dear father of Carrie, her husband Ray Oakley and their girls; Alyssa and Leigha Oakley, Andy Snooks and his wife Nancy and Andy’s son Brandon Snooks. Also survived by Mike Stuart and his wife Susan and their children; Alex and Maya Stuart. Brother of Marg Pelland (Homer- deceased), Barbara McQueen (Wayne- deceased), Carol Gunn (Bill), Des Snooks (Sue), Robert Snooks (deceased) and Doreen Snooks. Also survived by nieces and nephews.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Sand Lake, please revisit the website below as details become arranged.
In lieu of flowers, donations to either the Huntsville Hospital Foundation or the Ontario Heart & Stroke Foundation, would be appreciated. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
Passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sunday, February 7, 2021 at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in his 90th year. Ross is the beloved husband of Stephanie Rabjohn (née Shiner) of 70 years. Cherished father of Chris, Jeff and Jane. Proud grandfather of Scott, Melissa, Alex, Grayson, Chrissy and Alicia. Great-grandfather of Charlotte, Madeline, Sophie, Paul John and Mackenzie. Ross will be dearly missed by his extended family and many friends.
A memorial service will be held at Knox United Church in Dorset once Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted. Interment to follow at Paint Lake Cemetery. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, www.huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
The family of Derek Mathews is saddened to announce his passing on February 6th 2021 in his 87th year at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital. Derek was born in Croydon, England. He is predeceased by his parents, Charles and Dorothy Mathews and his younger brother David ,also his son-in-law, Terry. He was a kind and loving man who always made his family the first priority in his life. He will be forever missed by his wife of 62 years, Chris, his two daughters Helen (Tony), Tracy, and grandchildren Tyler (Carly), Kristen and Anthony and sister-in-law, June and her family in England.
Derek was always mechanically minded. He joined the British Army at 17 for a 3 year stint and went into the R.E.M.E., where he received his mechanic’s training. He served two years in what was then Malaya in support of the Somerset Light Infantry and the Gurkha Rifles by being responsible for the maintenance of trucks, generators and on the odd occasion an airplane. He took great pride in the military for the rest of his life.
Derek and his wife and baby daughter immigrated to Canada in 1967 where, for the rest of his working life, he was employed in various positions with the same electric fork lift truck company originally from Britain. He took great pride in our family cottage doing most of the work in and around it and where we had and have great friends and happy memories with much laughter. The family are also thankful to and for the great neighbours and friends in Huntsville who did much to enrich Derek’s life and continue to in support of his wife.
If desired, donations would be appreciated to Wounded Warriors of Canada, www.woundedwarriors.ca or a charity of your choice in lieu of flowers. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
LeBlanc, Raymond Patrick
The family of Raymond Patrick LeBlanc of Huntsville are sad to announce his passing at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital on Friday, February 5, 2021.
Raymond was born in Huntsville on October 1, 1958 to Patrick and Marguerite LeBlanc (both deceased), and was one of seven children. He was predeceased by his brother Robert and will be missed by siblings: Margaret and her husband Marcel Chiasson of Mississauga; Tom and his wife Nancy of Huntsville; Jim (Dorothy, deceased) of Huntsville; Gerald and his wife Karen of Huntsville; Kathy and her husband Jim Roussel of Port McNicoll, as well as 6 nieces, 4 nephews, 5 great-nieces and 7 great-nephews.
Raymond enjoyed a happy childhood at Buck Lake Dairy Farm, Ilfracombe and had many wonderful times with his siblings throughout the years. As a young boy he loved the outdoors – hiking, fishing, snow-shoeing and raising pet rabbits. As an adult he worked in retail positions in Huntsville and lived on a small portion of the family farm. The family take comfort that a family reunion was held in October 2019, the last time they were able to all gather.
Due to COVID restrictions there will be no formal service – a private family gathering will take place upon the interment of his ashes at Hutcheson Memorial Cemetery, where he will rest with his parents and brother. Expressions of sympathy can be made in the form of memorial gifts to The Huntsville Hospital Foundation. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Walter Peter Tarasick, 92, surrounded by his family, at his home in Kearney, Ontario, on February 5, 2021, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born October 16, 1928, in Windsor, Ontario, and predeceased by his parents, Fred and Anna Tarasick, and wife Anne (1996).
Walter graduated in 1951 with a degree in Engineering from the University of Toronto and went on to become an Ontario Land Surveyor, establishing Starr and Tarasick Surveying and Engineering, in Port Credit, Ontario, which prospered for many decades. His legacy is reflected today in many of the landmarks surveyed by his company in the Greater Toronto area and the offspring company which still includes his name.
Walter leaves behind his beloved wife Margaret Tarasick, and her children Susan, Lisa (Peter), Marianne, and Andrea (Paolo) and Maggie’s nine grand-children and two great-grandchildren. He is also survived by children David (Susan), Catherine, Steven (Madeliene), Leslie, and their mother, Audrey, as well as grandchildren Nicole, Michael (Jacki), Dara (Gordon), Lauren (Shawn), Jordana (Baruch), Alex, Meaghan, Rebecca, Kate, Daniel (Rachel), Alicia (Ian), Nathan, Rachel, Matthew, and Ian, and great-grandchildren, namesake Walter, and Sullivan.
Walter’s passion for cottage life came to fruition when he single-handedly built the beloved family cottage on Big Hawk Lake in 1959. The legacy of the cottage carries on today remaining a favorite destination for children and grandchildren who will treasure memories of many gatherings there with grandpa and Maggie. Wally joined the annual ritual of the cottage closing this past September. As was tradition, he worked the hardest of all!
Wally always enjoyed life to the fullest, an avid golfer, canoeist, water-skier, reader, theatre patron, garlic gardener, and a world traveller over many years, with trips to almost every continent including the Arctic and Antarctica. And while Wally always savoured the richness of life, he never failed to think of others and was a benefactor to a wide range of charities, making annual donations over many decades. His last major project, at the age of 89, was building, with Maggie, his dream home on Lynx Lake, Kearney, where he has been able to enjoy a beautiful vista and a wonderful community of family and friends. Above all, Wally was a family man much beloved by the whole clan.
Great appreciation is expressed to Dr. Whaley (called “my hero” by Wally), Norma Connolly, Stephanie Holtz and many other medical professionals for their excellent care and compassion. Thank you also to the wonderful neighbours and family members for endless support and acts of kindness.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in memory of Walter may be made to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, via the website: huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca. or to a charity of your choice. Donations and online condolences may also be made through the Billingsley Funeral Home website: www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
With the heaviest of hearts, we must announce the passing of Carlos who lost his courageous battle with cancer on January 27th, with his family at his side. Husband, best friend and soulmate of Kelly (Gates) beloved father of Joshua, Devon and Peyton, son of Klaus Burmeister and Eva Ledesma, brother to Carmen (Roland) and Claus (Helene). Carlos will be remembered by many nieces and nephews as well as many close friends. His genuine laugh and outgoing nature endeared him to everyone he touched. While Carlos enjoyed a long and successful career with Opentext, his first loves were his family, soccer and his community. Although very humble, Carlos was a pillar of minor sports for Huntsville and served for many years not only as a trainer/coach in minor hockey but was also a driving force within the Huntsville Soccer Club. Carlos found true joy in working with and teaching young REP soccer players, both boys and girls. His calm, inspirational leadership, skills and love for the game made him a role model favourite with both his players and their families. Carlos believed that
“every kid should have their own soccer ball”. It is for this reason we have set up the TEAM CARLOS FOUNDATION to provide kids in need with their own soccer ball. The Huntsville Soccer Club is naming an annual tournament in Carlos’ name and will also assist the foundation in distributing soccer balls to children internationally.
Expressions of sympathy and in lieu of flowers donations can be forwarded to the Team Carlos Foundation at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/team-carols-every-kid-needs-a-soccer-ball
Arrangements have been entrusted to Billingsley Funeral Home where cremation has taken place as per Carlos’s wishes. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions a Celebration of Life is planned for this summer on the McCulley-Robertson Soccer field in Huntsville (date to follow). We will celebrate his life, his love and his need to make the world a better place.
It is with the deepest of regret that we share the news that Valerie McMullan, aged 63, has died suddenly in her beloved home on Bella Lake outside of Huntsville on January 25th, 2021.
Val leaves behind Peter Ham, her cherished partner and caregiver of over 25 years along with their much-loved dog Fergus.
Val also leaves behind her brother Lawrence and his wife Denise, and Val’s sister Denise all of Ottawa. In Toronto she leaves her cousin and honourary sister Allyson (Dean) and many more family members back in Belfast including her dear Aunt Jean. She was an amazing aunt to her many nieces: Ashley, Rachel, Hilary and Grace and nephews: Bayley, Alex, Vincent and Oliver, all of whom loved her dearly and are devastated by this loss.
Val is predeceased by her parents Rita and Harry McMullan and her cherished niece Sydney.
Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Val grew up in Ottawa before moving to Toronto and then ultimately landing in the beautiful Muskokas. Having started out to be a nurse she pivoted to a successful career in finance that lasted many years and at which she excelled. In fact, Val was the first female branch manager of Central Guaranty Trust before moving on to Adelaide Capital Corp. Val was a wonderful cook and host. She loved her food, good wine, her books, movies, documentaries, and most of all, her family and friends.
She had a quick wit, a great sense of humour and impeccable style. She also had a beautiful singing voice which was one of the many things taken by Parkinson’s. Despite her incredible zest for life, she had a body that was inflicted by many challenges and in the end, it was her strongest feature, her heart, that failed her.
As requested, Val’s body will be cremated and a service will be held at a time when we are all able to gather and celebrate the wonder that was Val. Rest in peace beloved one!
If desired, donations can be made in her honour to the charity of your choice. www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mom and nana, Beatrice Mary Goodwin (Campbell) at the age of 93.
Bea will be forever remembered by her daughter Kathi (Kate) Oben and her husband Ken, her grandson, Keith Oben, her niece Elizabeth (Liza) and family and extended family and friends. Beatrice was predeceased by her parents, Catherine and Michael Campbell, her brother Michael and her sister, Sadie, her first husband, David and second husband, Norman. Bea will be forever remembered by her loving family.
Bea was born in Toronto and later moved to Huntsville, Ontario along with her first husband David A. Hollingshead. She retired as head secretary at Huntsville High School. Bea lived and travelled extensively with her family living in Brazil and Fort McMurray and Calgary and travelling to New Zealand, Bermuda, Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, England, Scotland, Belgium and France and also toured throughout Canada and the United States extensively with her husband Norman Goodwin. She was devout in her faith and loved and cherished her family. Her grandson, Keith was the apple of her eye for the last 24 years and she was very proud of his strength of character and his accomplishments. Bea was fiercely proud of her Scottish heritage. Bea was kind, gentle and generous and a true lady. She was active in politics and loved poetry and music and was the first to admit she was tone-deaf.
Bea recently developed dementia and happily remembered all family members and family dogs (generations past and present) being together with her in her present moment. Bea resided at Scenic Acres Retirement Residence in Calgary at the time of her death and after five or six heart attacks, five stents and numerous cardiovascular episodes her big and generous heart finally gave out. Beatrice, Kathi, Ken and Keith greatly appreciated the warmth, compassion and amazing care shown by the staff of Scenic Acres. We are truly and forever grateful.
A private, family service will be held at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Calgary, Alberta.
Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.edenbrookcemetery.ca.
Passed away peacefully at home on January 22, 2021 surrounded by his family. Beloved husband of Carol (née Mason). Survived by his brother Ron (Peggy) and his sister Victoria. Loving father of Christine (Justin) and Myles. Cherished grandfather of Ryan. Predeceased by his mother Lillian (Sue) and father William (Howie) Schmidt. He will be greatly missed by his nieces and nephews, extended family, countless friends and his beloved dog.
Jay was born in Montreal, Quebec and while living there Jay worked in the photography and floral businesses until he moved to Ontario when he began his career as a contractor and helped many people with his skilled craftsmanship.
Jay and his family had a love of cottage life creating treasured memories together at Lac Gaumond in the Laurentians. Jay’s love for this life continued with his wife Carol and their children at their family cottage on Loon Lake where so many gatherings, celebrations and unforgettable memories were made together with friends and family.
Jay enjoyed sailing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, music, and building things just for the sheer pleasure of creating. He also enjoyed boating and spent endless hours on the lake creating the best rollers for the ultimate tubing experience for those brave enough to try. He will be fondly remembered for his bright smile, outstanding sense of humour, ingenuity, passion for life, and his incredible love for his family, friends and animals.
The family would like to extend their appreciation to Jay’s care team of doctors and staff at Royal Victoria Hospital, Huntsville District Memorial Hospital and a special thank you to Dr. Stewart, Norma Connolly of the Hope Huntsville Palliative Care Team, Cathy Hockey and the nurses and PSWs of ParaMed. Together you each contributed significantly to Jay’s comfort and care over the last year.
In light of the current restriction due to the global pandemic and for the well-being of everyone, a private service with immediate family will take place on January 29th at 3:00 pm which will be available to live stream via Jay’s memorial page located on the Billingsley Funeral Home website.
As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations in memory of Jay can be made to Enliven Muskoka www.enlivenmuskoka.ca or the SPCA Bracebridge. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
A private family service will take place on Wednesday, January 27, 2021 at Billingsley Funeral Home. Live streaming will be available to family and friends unable to attend due to Covid-19. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to a charity of choice. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Janet Lynn Gambrell (Porter) passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family at home on Lake of Bays in Muskoka, on Thursday January 14th, 2021.
Daughter of the late Jack and Anna Porter. Beloved wife of Bill Gambrell. Cherished mother of David (Linda) and Sarah (Zak). Adored Nana of Ryan, Alex, Anna, Jake, Knowl and Hugh. Treasured big sister to Bruce and David Porter.
Janet was more then a mentor and a role model. She was a trailblazer. Janet was a tenacious advocate for educators, administrators and newcomers to Canada. The footprint she has left is extraordinary.
Janet loved her family more than anything. She was happiest at the cottage, on the golf course or traveling the world.
Her infectious smile will be missed by all.
In lieu of flowers, any donations made to the Palliative Team through the Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/janetgambrell
A private service will be held for the family, with a celebration of life at a later date.
https://www.mitchellfuneralhome.ca/obituaries-1/2021/1/16/janet-lynn-gambrell-1
Yvonne Cowan, October 17, 1947 to January 13, 2021
With profound sadness we announce the passing of Yvonne. She left us peacefully at Huntsville District Memorial Hospital in her 73rd year. Yvonne is remembered and survived by her husband of 36 years William (“Bill”), sons Justin and Michael (Marina), sisters Patricia (Doug, predeceased) and Anne (Ron), nieces Keri-Ann (daughter Caitlyn), Lesley (Verne, daughters Lexia and Larissa) and nephew Derek (son Liam, daughter Molly).
Yvonne was born in Belfast Northern Ireland, coming to Canada in her sixth year by way of ocean liner with parents Elizabeth and Robert (both predeceased) and her sisters. She and her family settled in downtown Toronto where she spent most of her young and adult life.
She was such a driven woman, and when entering her working career, she undoubtedly flourished. Starting with Sears Canada in her 20s in administration, quickly moving on to in-store management, head office in the buying department and finally rising to her pinnacle as National Marketing Manager. Her job gave her great joy and opportunity entailing frequent travel allowing her to explore, be adventurous and meet new people along the way.
Upon retirement she and Bill moved to Huntsville allowing her to spend time doing the things she loved most; volunteering with local Christian and charitable organizations, gardening, hiking, swimming, spending time by the lake and most importantly entertaining and spending time with loved ones and friends. Amongst her many passions travel ranked near the top. Her curiosity to learn and experience life took her to many destinations in Canada, the United States and Europe. She would often remark that when she was in Destin, Florida she felt as if she was home. Her many years in Destin and Northern Florida gave her countless fond memories and provided her with warmth, sandy beach walks, shopping and endless sunsets that would sink into the Gulf.
Yvonne was a deeply caring, loving and dedicated woman, who enjoyed life to the fullest, with her family, her friends and her many interests. She had an impact on all the people she met and will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. With her outgoing personality and kind ways, she made everyone’s lives she touched better and will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Yvonne, you left the world a better place for being in it.
The funeral service was held on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at Billingsley Funeral Home. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations can be made to Huntsville Hospital Foundation.
You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV)
SOLLMAN, Leatrice “Joy” (née Thompson) passed away on Tuesday, January 12, 2021 at Fairvern Nursing Home at the age of 90. Joy is predeceased by husband Stanley and daughter Carol Oke. She is loved and cherished by her daughter Sherry and her husband Neil Markle. Proud grandmother of Heather Baker (Paul), Christopher Oke, Greg Oke, Brad Oke, Carmen Yeo (Jeff) and Ryan Markle (Brandi). Great-grandmother of Matthew and Ethan Baker, Zachery Oke, Paige and J.J. Oke, Hailey and Cameron Oke, Cameron and Jenna Yeo and Mikayla and Regan Markle.
Mom was a devoted mother and friend. She enjoyed cooking, spending time with family and helping others. She was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need and often did just that.
“To Those I Love”
When I am gone, release me, let me go
I have so many things to see and do
You mustn’t tie yourself to me with tears
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love. You can only guess
How much you gave to me in happiness
I thank you for the love you have shown
but now it’s time I traveled on alone.
So grieve awhile for me if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It’s only for a while that we must part
So bless the memories with your heart.
I won’t be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can’t see or touch me, I’ll be near
and if you listen with your heart, you’ll hear
All of my love around you soft and clear.
And then, when you must come this way alone
I’ll greet you with a smile, and welcome you home.
Anonymous
A funeral service will not be held at this time due to Covid-19 restrictions. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers donations to Huntsville Hospital Foundation would be greatly appreciated. Messages of condolence can be left at www.billingsleyfuneralhome.com
Passed away peacefully at Oak Terrace in Orillia on Monday, January 11th, 2021 in her 87th year. Nora Wilcox (née Sansall), loving mother of Phyllis Fockler (Gord), Karen Lacey (Terry), Donna Calina (John), Mary Ann Van Arem, Norine Malloy (Dorian) and Daniel Wilcox. Cherished grandmother of 11 grandchildren and 7 greatgrand children. Nora will be dearly missed and remembered by her family and friends. Cremation has taken place. There will be no visitation or services at this time. If desired, memorial donations to the Canadian Cancer Society may be made through the Simcoe Funeral Home, 38 James Street East, Orillia, L3V 1L1, 705 327-0221. Messages of condolence are welcomed at www.simcoefuneralhome.ca
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