Services & Obituaries

Brekelmans, John

Peacefully surrounded by his children, John passed away on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Parkwood Hospital in London, in his 69th year.

John was a beloved and proud father to Sarah (Scott) and Alex, and is survived by his former spouse, Mary. He was predeceased by his parents, Gerardus and Cornelia Brekelmans.

John was a resilient man with a generous heart. Quiet by nature, he showed his care through action – helping others and bringing complex ideas to life.

Over the course of his career, John was recognized for award-winning roadway projects and played a pivotal role in building a multi-generational construction company, Bre-Ex, helping shape its foundation and long-term success. Outside of work John loved the outdoors and hunting, and was an accomplished woodworker whose craftsmanship and attention to detail were evident in everything he built.

The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at Parkwood Palliative Care Unit for their compassion, with special thanks to Linda.

In keeping with John’s wishes, there will be no formal celebration of life. A. Millard George Funeral Home (519-433-5184) entrusted with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Online condolences, memories and photographs may be shared at www.amgfh.com.

HOLLAND, Carole Yvonne

Unexpectedly, on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at her residence in London, Carole Yvonne Holland passed away in her 83rd year. Beloved and devoted wife of the late Roger Holland.  Loving mother of Leanne Vander Heide (Dan); and of the late Steven Holland. Cherished grandmother of Heather Vander Heide (Pete), Theresa Vander Heide, Crystal Vander Heide, and James Holland. Proud and loving great-grandmother of Emily Vander Heide, Mason Vander Heide, and Curtis Vander Heide.

Carole deeply loved her family and friends and truly enjoyed the company of those around her. She shared a very special bond with her beloved dog, Bella, who was like a baby to her and always by her side. Carole’s warmth, kindness, and gentle presence left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her.

Carole was a proud florist and business owner, having owned and operated her own flower shop in Victoria, British Columbia, work she truly loved and took great pride in.

She was also a devoted member of the Oasis Group for many years, where she formed deep friendships and found a second family that meant a great deal to her.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to her cousin, Patsy Todd (Preston), who lovingly helped Carole with her appointments and held a special place in her life, having also been her flower girl at her wedding.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Roger Holland; her son, Steven Holland; her parents, Frederick and Yvonne Sharratt; and her brother, Brian Sharratt (Janet).

Cremation has taken place. A celebration of Carole’s life will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.

As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Carole may be made to MS Canada or the Canadian Cancer Society.

Online condolences, memories, and photographs may be shared at www.amgfh.com.

PLANT, Carolyn…

We are saddened to announce the peaceful passing of Carolyn Plant on Thursday, January 1, 2026 in her 81st year. Loving mother of David Munden and Wendy Litke. Cherished sister of Doug Plant (Sandy) and Jim Plant (Judy). Carolyn will also be missed by her nieces, nephews and extended family.

Carolyn lived simply, finding joy in life’s quiet moments and everyday pleasures. She had a deep love for all animals, especially her cherished pets, who were constant companions and a source of comfort. She loved camping and fishing, enjoying time outdoors, and delighted in road trips-especially those that led her to lighthouses, whose beauty and steady presence reflected her own gentle spirit.

Cremation has taken place and a celebration of Carolyn’s life will be held at a later date. Donations in her memory may be made to Diabetes Canada, 442 Adelaide Street North, London, ON N6B 3H8. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MACKINTOSH, Donald “Donnie”…

Donnie passed away unexpectedly, surrounded by his family, on Thursday, January 1, 2026 in his 72nd year. Loving father of Kevin Mackintosh. Dear brother of Gordon Mackintosh, Joan Mackintosh and Pamella Carey (Kevin). Adored uncle Mac to his many nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his parents Donald and Pauline Mackintosh, his brother Robert Mackintosh and his wife Jackie, and his sister-in-law Alyce Mackintosh.

He was a dedicated employee with the London District Catholic School Board and brought the same commitment and care to his work as he did to his life. A passionate guitarist since the age of five, he found great joy in music and spent many happy hours jamming at Norma Jean’s with his friends Archie, Shawn, and Stan. Very loving and deeply kind, he had a special connection with animals-loving them wholeheartedly and being loved just as much in return.

Cremation has taken place and in honouring Donnie’s wishes, no service will be held. In memory of Donnie, donations in his honour may be made to an animal rescue organization or homeless charity of your choice. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

BANKES, Marilynn (nee Pearen)

Passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 1, 2026, with family by her side at her residence. Beloved wife of the late John Bankes. Loving mother of Rick Bankes (Darlene) and Sherry Masse (Perry). Dear grandmother of Jeremy (Azul), Matthew (Andrea), Amanda (Corey), Michelle (Chris), Stevie (Ryan) and Holly (Kyle). Missed by her great grandchildren Jessie, August, Ben, Brooklyn, Faye, Hazel and Nolan. Predeceased by her parents Mike and Ruth and by her brother Fred. Marilynn will be remembered by her extended family and dear friends. A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 11:00 – 11:45 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London. A funeral service will follow in the chapel at 12:00 pm. For those unable to attend, the service will be live streamed on the AMG Funeral Home YouTube channel. Interment in Woodland Cemetery, London. The family would like to express gratitude for the care received from The Village of Glendale Crossing, Saint Elizabeth, VON and her palliative care team. As an expression of sympathy donations in memory of Marilynn may be made to Boys’ and Girls’ Club London or VON. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

KEEN, Frank….

At his residence on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Frank Keen of London at the age of 78, left us to be with the Lord above. Proud father of Nikki Oulds (Jeff), Dani Keen (Greg), and Justin Keen. Loving Gramps of Bella and Addison. Dear brother of Joe Keen (Rose) and brother-in-law of Pat. Frank will be missed by his nieces, nephews, Dee Dee and his friends. Predeceased by his parents Amelia and Bill Keen and his brother Bob Keen. Frank enjoyed time with his family and adored his granddaughters. A devoted sports fan, he loved hockey and baseball and proudly coached baseball for many years. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humour and the laughter he brought to those around him. Cremation has taken place. Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 from 9:30-11:30 am at the A. Millard George Reception Centre, 60 Ridout Street South, London. As an expression of sympathy, donations may be made to Children’s Aid Society of London & Middlesex. A. Millard George Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

MITCHELL, Anna

June 5, 1932 to December 26, 2025

We are saddened to announce the passing of Anna K Mitchell (Robin) in her 94^th year. Loving wife of the late Gordon (2013), mother to Moira Hernould (late Simon), David Mitchell (late Rose), James Mitchell (Tracey), Janet Sherritt (Bill) and Robert Mitchell (Sandy), and her only sibling Margaret Vetter (Dennis).

She leaves behind 8 Grandchildren, 7 Great Grandchildren, and 1 Great-Great Grandchild.

Anna came to Canada from Scotland as a teenager and she and Gordon raised their five children in Byron where they lived for about 65 years.

A private family service will be held at a later date. As an expression of sympathy, donations in memory of Anna may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or the Alzheimer Society Southwest Partners. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Marsh, Vicki

It is with profound sadness that the family of Vicki Marsh (née Pennecott) announce her sudden passing at the age of 63.
She leaves behind her only daughter, Krista (Lee); her cherished grandchildren: Mischa, Lucas, and Tommy; and her younger sister, Shari (Kevin), who will forever hold her memory close.
Vicki will be remembered for her loyalty, compassion, and the quiet love she shared so generously with those closest to her.
Though gone too soon, Vicki has been welcomed into heaven by the loving arms of her parents, Ella and Gordon, and her brother, Steven. Arrangements entrusted with A. Millard George Funeral Home, 519-433-5184. Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com

Findlay, Lillian
At Victoria Hospital, London on Tuesday, December 23, 2025 Lillian H. (Laidlaw) Findlay of London in her 84th year. Beloved wife of the late Allan B. Findlay. Dear mother of Allan Findlay and his wife Donna of London, Dan Findlay and his wife Brenda of Thamesford, Doug Findlay of London and Kris Cummings and her husband Gord of London. Dear sister of Norm Laidlaw. Dear sister-in-law of Norma Laidlaw of Belmont and John Findlay of Nova Scotia. Predeceased by Ken Laidlaw, Marion Baker (Jack), Penny Laidlaw and Judy Findlay. Also loved by her grandchildren Mike (Alisha), Mandy (Kyle), Mitchell and Karly (Seth) and missed by her great-grandchildren Ryland, Kohen, Kennedy, Ellowyn, Max, Layla and Lily. Lillian will be missed by her furry companion Ruby.
Friends will be received by the family on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 from 10:00 to 10:45 am at the A. Millard George Funeral Home, 60 Ridout Street South, London where the funeral service will be conducted in the chapel at 11:00 am. Interment of cremated remains in Pond Mills Cemetery, London. As an expression of sympathy memorial donations may be directed to the Shriner’s Hospitals for Children, c/o Mocha Shrine Centre, 468 Colborne Street, London, N6B 2T3 Online condolences accepted at www.amgfh.com

Zabala Perez, Sandra

Gone too soon on Monday, December 22, 2025, at STEGH, Sandra passed away in her 59th year.

Adored and supportive mother of Valeria (Sean). Cherished daughter of Maria Ines and Victor Manuel Zabala. Proud sister and aunt of Claudia (Juliana, Gonzalo and Mariana), and Carlos Andres (Samuel). Life companion of Manuel Gutierrez. Also survived by many cousins and extended family.

Sandra will be dearly missed by every person she crossed paths with. She was a friend like no other and was someone who gave endlessly. No matter the situation, my mom always found a way to help others.

Cremation has taken place. A Memorial Mass will be held at St. Francis- St. Martin Parish, 46 Cathcart Street, London on Saturday December 27, 2025 at 10:00 am.

As an expression of sympathy in memory of Sandra a contribution would be appreciated at: gofund.me/d7ded52b3

Online condolences, memories and photographs shared at www.amgfh.com